Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that embodies the spirit of the holidays, you’ve found it! Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie is a true gem, bursting with juicy cranberries and topped with a flaky cake layer. This pie is not just a treat; it’s a tradition in our family. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, this pie brings warmth and joy to every occasion. Trust me; once you try it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, you’ll want to share it with everyone you know!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Make: This pie comes together in just about an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Family-Friendly: The sweet and tart flavor of cranberries combined with the crunchy pecans makes it a hit with both kids and adults.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the filling ahead of time and assemble it before baking for effortless entertaining.
• Perfectly Delicious: The combination of flavors will have everyone asking for seconds (or thirds!).

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s keep things simple! The ingredients for Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie are wholesome and easy to find. You probably have most of them in your pantry already!

For the Filling

• Fresh cranberries
• Chopped pecans
• Sugar

For the Cake Layer

• Unsalted butter
• Sugar
• Almond extract or vanilla extract
• Eggs
• All-purpose flour
• Salt

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to make it your own! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add Spices: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth.
• Use Different Nuts: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different crunch.
• Switch Up the Fruit: Mix in blueberries or apples for a unique twist on the classic flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for those with dietary restrictions.

How to Make Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C) and butter a 9-inch pie plate. The buttery base helps create that perfect crust. Place fresh cranberries in the dish, sprinkle them with chopped pecans, and add half a cup of sugar. This combination sets the stage for that deliciously tangy filling!

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a medium bowl, beat softened butter and one cup of sugar on medium speed until smooth. This step is crucial because it creates a light texture in your cake layer. Next, add almond extract or vanilla along with eggs one at a time, beating until fluffy. Reducing speed to low, gradually mix in flour and salt until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Combine Layers

The batter will be sticky—that’s perfectly normal! Use a spatula to spread it evenly over the cranberry mixture in your pie plate. This layer creates that lovely cake topping that contrasts beautifully with the tart cranberries below.

Step 4: Bake Your Pie

Bake your creation for 45-50 minutes. Keep an eye on it! A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with just a few moist crumbs—this indicates it’s perfectly baked.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly (if you can wait!). Serve warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped topping. Each bite will be pure bliss! Enjoy every moment as you share this delicious Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie with loved ones!

Pro Tips for Making Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie

Creating the perfect Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie is a delightful experience, and with these handy tips, you’ll be sure to impress your family and friends!

• Choose Fresh Cranberries: Using fresh cranberries gives you the best flavor and texture. They burst beautifully during baking, creating that juicy filling we all love.
• Don’t Skimp on Butter: Using enough softened butter in the batter helps create that perfectly flaky topping. It adds richness and keeps the cake layer moist while balancing the tartness of the cranberries.
• Mix Your Ingredients Gently: When combining the flour and salt into the batter, mix gently to avoid overworking it. This will keep your topping light and airy instead of dense.
• Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your pie as it bakes. The toothpick test should yield a few moist crumbs. If it’s too wet, give it a little extra time in the oven.
• Let It Cool Slightly Before Serving: Allowing the pie to cool for about 10-15 minutes after baking helps it set up properly, making it easier to slice and serve without losing its shape.

How to Serve Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie

Serving your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie can be just as fun as making it! Here are some delightful ways to present this festive dessert that will surely wow your guests.

Garnishes

• Whipped Topping: A dollop of whipped topping adds a creamy contrast that complements the tartness of the cranberries beautifully.
• Chopped Pecans: Sprinkling some additional chopped pecans on top not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a lovely crunch.
• Fresh Mint Leaves: A couple of fresh mint leaves can brighten up your presentation, bringing a pop of color while offering a refreshing hint of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, vanilla ice cream melts into the warm pie, creating a heavenly combination of flavors and textures.
• Apple Crisp: The warm spices from an apple crisp provide a comforting contrast to the tartness of cranberry pie, making for an inviting dessert spread.
• Hot Chocolate: Serving this pie with cups of rich hot chocolate creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for holiday gatherings. The warmth from the beverage complements the pie wonderfully.
• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad offers a refreshing balance after enjoying this rich dessert. Choose seasonal fruits for added festivity!

With these serving ideas and pro tips in hand, you’re ready to enjoy every scrumptious bite of your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie is not only a delightful treat, but it’s also perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store it for those busy holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the pie in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• If you prefer, refrigerate the pie to extend its freshness; it will last about a week in the fridge.
• Cover slices with plastic wrap to keep them moist.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C).
• Place the pie on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Serve warm with ice cream or whipped topping for that freshly-baked taste!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie that might help clarify any uncertainties.

Can I use frozen cranberries for Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie?

Yes, you can absolutely use frozen cranberries! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using.

What can I substitute if I don’t have pecans for Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie?

You can use chopped walnuts or almonds as a substitute. They’ll provide a lovely crunch while complementing the tartness of the cranberries.

How do I know when my Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie is done baking?

The pie is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs, indicating that it’s cooked through but still moist.

Can I make this pie gluten-free?

Definitely! Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free version of this festive pie.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie! It’s not just another dessert; it’s a comforting addition to any holiday table that brings warmth and smiles. Enjoy every slice, share it with loved ones, and let its delightful flavors create wonderful memories. Happy baking!