As the holiday season approaches, the kitchen buzzes with excitement and fragrant aromas, and there’s something undeniably special about making dessert from scratch. Enter the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie, a delightful treat that brings together a tangy cranberry filling, crunchy pecans, and a magical cake layer. This recipe not only requires just a handful of ingredients but also serves as a charming centerpiece for your Christmas or Thanksgiving table. Plus, it’s a showstopper that impresses even those who claim they don’t like cranberries! Picture this: The pie comes out of the oven, warm and inviting, ready to be served with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. Curious yet? Let’s dive into making this festive wonder!
What makes this pie a holiday favorite?
Simplicity, with just a handful of ingredients, this Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie is easy to whip up, even for beginner bakers. Tantalizing flavors meld perfectly, bringing together the tartness of fresh cranberries with the sweetness of sugar and the nutty crunch of pecans. Impressive presentation ensures it takes center stage at any gathering, captivating your guests even if they claim not to love cranberries! Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert that feels like a hug on a plate. Plus, it’s a time-saver, allowing you to spend more time with family and friends, rather than in the kitchen. Want to explore more holiday desserts? Check out our easy Thanksgiving desserts for delightful inspiration!
Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie Ingredients
For the Pie Filling
• Fresh or Frozen Cranberries – Use fresh for the best flavor, but frozen works too without thawing.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the filling to balance out the tart cranberries; feel free to adjust based on your taste.
• Pecans or Almonds – Adds a crunchy texture and rich flavor; toasting them enhances the aroma.
For the Cake Layer
• Unsalted Butter – Richness and moisture are key; make sure it’s softened for smooth mixing.
• Eggs – Essential for binding; room temperature eggs incorporate better into the batter.
• Almond or Vanilla Extract – Use to add a lovely aroma—choose based on your preference.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; substitute with a gluten-free blend if needed.
• Salt – Elevates and balances the flavors in the pie.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (176°C). While the oven warms up, grab a 9-inch pie plate and generously butter the bottom and sides. This will help ensure your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie releases easily after baking. Once ready, scatter fresh or frozen cranberries evenly across the bottom of the pie plate, followed by a sprinkle of chopped pecans and a half-cup of granulated sugar.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a medium mixing bowl, beat ½ cup of softened unsalted butter together with 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. The goal here is to combine these two ingredients thoroughly, creating a light texture that will enhance your cake layer. Ensure you use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed for best results.
Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs and Extract
Next, add the almond or vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture, followed by the eggs, one at a time. Beat thoroughly after each addition until the batter appears fluffy, which will take about 1-2 minutes. This process adds richness and flavor to your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie, giving it that delightful taste everyone loves.
Step 4: Mix in the Dry Ingredients
Once your egg mixture is well combined, gradually add in the all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt. Beat on low speed until just combined; be careful not to overmix. The batter should be thick but smooth, with a sticky consistency that will spread nicely over your cranberry filling in the pie plate.
Step 5: Assemble the Pie
Now, using a spatula, gently spread the batter over the layer of cranberries and pecans in the pie plate. Make sure to cover the entire cranberry layer evenly, as this will create that delicious cake-like topping for your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie.
Step 6: Bake the Pie
Place your pie in the preheated oven and let it bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs. This indication means your pie is perfectly baked with a soft, moist texture underneath.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10-15 minutes at room temperature. This cooling period helps the flavors to settle and enhances the overall texture. Serve your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie warm, ideally accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped topping to celebrate the holidays!
Make Ahead Options
These Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the filling (cranberries, sugar, and pecans) up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain its flavor and freshness. Additionally, you can make the cake batter ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply take out the filling and cake batter, assemble them in the pie plate, and pop it in the oven. This way, you’ll have a delightful and impressive dessert ready to serve with minimal effort, allowing you to enjoy the holiday season without the stress!
How to Store and Freeze Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
Room Temperature: Store the pie at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered with a clean kitchen towel to maintain moisture.
Fridge: If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate for up to 5 days in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap to preserve freshness.
Freezer: The Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
Reheating: To enjoy later, thaw the pie in the fridge overnight, then bring it to room temperature. Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
What to Serve with Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
Indulging in a slice of warm cranberry pie creates the ideal backdrop for a cozy holiday feast.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture of buttery mashed potatoes complements the tartness of the pie, creating a perfect contrast on your plate.
- Green Beans Almondine: This vibrant, crunchy side adds freshness and a nutty flavor that pairs brilliantly with the sweet pie.
- Rolls & Butter: Light, fluffy rolls are ideal for soaking up any morsels of pie filling left behind, delivering a warm and comforting mouthful.
- Apple Cider: A warm glass of spiced apple cider enhances the pie’s festive flavors, making every sip feel like a hug in a mug.
- Pecan Pie Tartlets: For an added layer of indulgence, these bite-sized tarts echo the nutty undertones found in the cranberry pie, harmonizing beautifully.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of rich vanilla ice cream draped over warm pie provides a delightful contrast, balancing tart and sweet in every bite.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of light whipped cream on top gives your pie a dreamy finish, elevating the experience of enjoying this holiday treat.
- Hot Chocolate: Rich and creamy hot chocolate is a cozy drink option that pairs well with the tanginess of the pie, perfect for chilly evenings.
- Cinnamon Applesauce: The sweetness and spice of cinnamon applesauce can enhance the pie’s flavors, making this a simple yet effective pairing.
Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie Variations
Feel free to get creative with this festive pie – there are so many delightful twists to explore!
- Nut-Free: Skip the pecans or almonds for a nut-free version, making it a safe option for everyone at your table.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste.
- Citrus Zest: Adding lemon or orange zest enhances the bright flavors and pairs beautifully with cranberries, giving it an extra layer of freshness.
- Brown Sugar: Use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a deeper, caramel-like sweetness that beautifully complements the tart cranberries.
Elevate your pie’s flavor by adding a pinch of spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. This touch of warmth brings a cozy holiday spirit to each bite.
For a unique twist, try swapping cranberries for pitted cherries or blueberries, creating a whole new pie experience! If you’re ever in need of more festive inspirations, take a peek at our delightful holiday dessert ideas.
Finally, if you like it spicier, consider adding chopped jalapeños for a surprising kick that balances the sweetness and tartness of the pie. Transform your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie into a sizzlin’ showstopper that’ll leave everyone talking!
Expert Tips for Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
• Fresh is Best: Use fresh cranberries for maximum flavor; if frozen, don’t thaw them and adjust the baking time accordingly.
• Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on your pie; it’s perfect when a toothpick reveals a few moist crumbs. Overbaking can lead to a dry pie.
• Storage Tips: Store at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. It can be frozen for up to 3 months—just thaw in the fridge overnight!
• Nut Variations: Feel free to swap pecans for almonds or leave out nuts altogether for a nut-free treat without compromising on taste.
• Adjust Sweetness: Tweak the sugar level to match your preference. This can elevate the tartness of cranberries, ensuring a delightful harmony in your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie!
Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to choose cranberries for the pie?
Absolutely! When selecting cranberries, look for fresh, plump berries with a bright, vibrant color. They should be firm to the touch with minimal blemishes. Avoid any cranberries that have dark spots or appear shriveled, as these are signs of overripeness. If using frozen cranberries, there’s no need to thaw them; just add them directly to your pie dish!
How should I store leftover Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie?
For sure! You can store your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie at room temperature for up to 2 days, but be sure to cover it with a clean kitchen towel. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
Can I freeze Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie?
Of course! To freeze the pie, allow it to cool completely after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil, and place it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then warm it back up in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
What if my pie cracks while baking?
Very understandable! If your pie cracks during baking, it could be due to overmixing your batter or baking it at too high a temperature. To help prevent this, be gentle when mixing and stick to the recommended baking time. If you do have cracks, you can always cover them with a scoop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar to make it look lovely again!
Is there a nut-free version of the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie?
Absolutely, you can enjoy a nut-free version! Simply omit the pecans or substitute them with seeds such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds for that delightful crunch. You can also add in rolled oats for added texture. Your cranberry pie will still be delicious and satisfying without the nuts!
Can I adjust the sweetness of the cranberry filling?
Very much! You can absolutely adjust the granulated sugar in the filling to suit your taste. If you prefer a more tart pie, reduce the sugar to 1/4 cup. Alternatively, if you like it sweeter, feel free to bump it up to 3/4 cup. Remember, the sweetness of the pie should reflect your personal preferences!
Delight Your Holidays with Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C), butter the pie plate, and scatter cranberries, pecans, and sugar in the plate.
- In a mixing bowl, beat butter and granulated sugar for 2-3 minutes until smooth and creamy.
- Incorporate almond or vanilla extract, then add eggs one at a time and beat until fluffy (1-2 minutes).
- Gradually mix in the flour and salt until just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Spread the batter evenly over the cranberry layer in the pie plate.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown; check with a toothpick for doneness.
- Let the pie cool for 10-15 minutes before serving, preferably warm with ice cream.
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