This cranberry pie is a sweet and tangy treat, with juicy cranberries bursting with flavor in every bite. The flaky crust adds a lovely crunch that makes it even better!
What I love most is how the tartness of the cranberries pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. It’s a fun dessert that always gets smiles around the table! 🍰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries add a delightful tartness. If you can’t find them, you can use frozen cranberries, just make sure to toss them in flour before mixing. This helps absorb excess moisture.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is perfect for balancing the tartness. You can substitute with brown sugar for a deeper flavor, or use a sugar alternative if you’re looking for a lower-calorie option.
Pie Crust: Store-bought crust is a time-saver. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade crusts are easy and rewarding! For gluten-free options, try almond flour or a pre-made gluten-free pie crust.
Orange Zest and Lemon Juice: These add freshness. If you’re out, try apple cider vinegar or a bit of white vinegar as a substitute. You can also skip them if needed but consider using another fruit zest!
How Do I Make a Lattice Pie Crust?
Creating a lattice crust can seem tricky, but it’s easier than you think! Here’s a simple way to get it just right:
- Roll out the second pie crust and slice it into strips, about 1/2 inch wide.
- Place half of the strips vertically across the pie filling, evenly spaced.
- Now, fold back every other strip halfway and lay one of the remaining strips horizontally over the unfolded strips.
- Unfold the strips back over the horizontal strip. Continue this process, alternating the strips until the pie is fully covered.
- Trim any excess crust, then crimp the edges to seal.
This lattice design not only looks beautiful, but it also lets steam escape! Enjoy your homemade pie with family or friends.
How to Make a Delicious Cranberry Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
For the Crust:
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts) or homemade double pie crust
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional, for sprinkling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cranberry pie will take about 20 minutes of prep time and around 1 hour to bake, plus cooling time. All in all, you’ll be enjoying this tasty treat in about 2 hours from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven is key for a perfectly baked pie!
2. Prepare the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, flour, salt, and ground cinnamon (if you choose to use it). Then, gently toss in the cranberries to coat them well with this mixture. This helps thicken the filling and adds sweetness. Now, stir in the orange zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until everything is mixed together nicely.
3. Assemble the Crust:
Roll out one of your pie crusts and fit it into a 9-inch pie plate. Trim off any excess crust hanging over the edges. Next, pour the cranberry filling into the crust, smoothing it out with a spatula. Dot the top of the filling with small pieces of butter to add richness.
4. Create the Lattice Top:
Roll out the second crust and either cut it into strips to make a pretty lattice top or lay it whole over the filling. If you’re going for the lattice look, start by laying half the strips vertically, then fold back every other strip to place a horizontal one across. Unfold the strips back over the horizontal piece and repeat until covered. It will look charming!
5. Seal the Pie:
Trim and crimp the edges of the crust to seal everything in. Brush the top crust with the beaten egg to give it a lovely golden color when baked. If you like, sprinkle some coarse sugar on top for a bit of sparkle and extra crunch.
6. Bake Your Pie:
Place your pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips, then bake it in the oven for about 15 minutes. After that, reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 35-40 minutes. The pie is done when the crust is golden brown, and the filling is bubbling happily.
7. Cool Before Serving:
Once your pie is baked, let it cool completely on a wire rack. This cooling time helps the filling set up perfectly. When you’re ready to serve, enjoy a slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Enjoy your delicious homemade cranberry pie! 🍰
Can I Use Different Types of Berries in This Pie?
Absolutely! You can substitute cranberries with blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a delicious twist. Just adjust the sugar slightly based on the sweetness of the berries you choose!
How Can I Make the Pie Less Tart?
If you prefer a sweeter pie, simply increase the sugar to 1 1/2 cups or add in some chopped apples or pears with the cranberries. This will balance the tartness nicely!
Can I Make This Pie Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the pie ahead! Bake it, then let it cool completely before refrigerating. It will keep well for about 3 days in the fridge. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or serve cold.
What Should I Do if My Pie Crust is Getting Too Brown?
If the crust is browning too quickly, cover the edges with foil or a pie shield during baking. This will protect them and allow the filling to cook through without burning the crust.
