Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie: 7 Reasons to Love It

Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie is a delightful treat that combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of apples, creating a festive dessert perfect for holiday gatherings. This pie not only tastes amazing but also fills your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma. It’s a dish that evokes the spirit of the season, bringing family and friends together around the table. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that will make your celebrations even more special!

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie

This pie is not just a dessert; it’s an experience! Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore it:

• It’s a festive apple cranberry dessert that captures the essence of the holidays.
• The combination of sweet apples and tart cranberries creates a balanced flavor that appeals to everyone.
• It makes for a stunning centerpiece at any holiday gathering.
• This recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for novice bakers.
• It’s a holiday fruit pie recipe that can be made ahead of time.
• Perfectly pairs with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream!

With its classic apple cranberry pie ingredients and simple baking method, it’s no wonder this pie is a favorite for Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations!

Ingredients for Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie

Gather these items:

• 2 cups fresh cranberries
• 3 cups diced apples (preferably Granny Smith)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 pie crusts (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 large egg (for egg wash)

How to Make Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie Step-by-Step

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Step 2: Combine cranberries, diced apples, sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice in a mixing bowl. Stir until evenly incorporated.
3. Step 3: Roll out one pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish, ensuring it is evenly placed.
4. Step 4: Pour the prepared fruit filling into the crust-lined dish.
5. Step 5: Roll out the second crust and place it over the filling. Seal and crimp the edges to secure the filling.
6. Step 6: Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. Brush the surface with the beaten egg to achieve a golden finish.
7. Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
8. Step 8: Allow the pie to cool before slicing and serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie

Keep these in mind:

• Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for a more complex flavor.
• Let the pie cool completely before slicing; this helps the filling set.
• For a unique twist, add a handful of chopped nuts to the filling.
• Brush the crust with a mixture of butter and sugar for a sweeter finish.

Best Ways to Serve Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie

Here are a few delightful serving suggestions:

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combo.
• Add a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Pair with spiced tea or coffee to complement the pie’s flavors.

How to Store and Reheat Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie

To keep your pie fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. This method preserves the flaky crust and delicious filling!

Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie

What’s the secret to perfect Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie?

The secret lies in balancing the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of apples. Using a mix of different apple varieties can enhance the flavor profile, making it a delicious apple and cranberry dessert that everyone loves.

Can I make Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pie a day in advance. Just bake it, let it cool, and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it in the oven for a warm slice of pie.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie?

To avoid a soggy crust, make sure to bake the pie long enough until the filling is bubbling. Also, ensure that the apples are diced uniformly for even cooking. This will help create the perfect Thanksgiving apple cranberry pie.

Variations of Apple Cranberry Holiday Pie You Can Try

Feel free to get creative with your pie! Here are some variation ideas:

• Substitute half of the apples with pears for a delightful twist.
• Add spices like ginger or allspice for a more aromatic flavor.
• Top with a crumb topping instead of a second crust for a different texture.
• Try a gluten-free pie crust for a dietary variation that everyone can enjoy.

For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe collection. If you’re interested in other festive dishes, you might enjoy our Persian Chicken Recipe or Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo. Don’t forget to explore our Fried Meatballs Romanian Chiftele for a tasty appetizer!

For more information on the health benefits of cranberries, you can visit Healthline.

Print