As I pulled open the oven door, a wave of warm, tart aroma enveloped the kitchen, instantly transporting me to a cozy holiday gathering. This is the magic of Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie, where juicy cranberries mingle with rich pecans beneath a soft, cake-like layer. It’s more than just a festive dessert; it’s a beloved tradition that effortlessly pleases both cranberry enthusiasts and skeptics alike. With its quick prep time, this pie is the ultimate solution for anyone looking to elevate their Christmas or Thanksgiving dessert spread without spending all day in the kitchen. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, making it easy to whip up ahead of time! Ready to gather your ingredients and create your own slice of holiday happiness? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!
Why is this pie a holiday favorite?
Irresistible flavors: The blend of tart cranberries and crunchy pecans creates a delightful contrast that will satisfy any palate.
Effortless baking: With just a few simple steps, you can create a stunning dessert that looks as good as it tastes!
Time-saver: This pie can be prepared in under an hour, freeing up your schedule for other holiday activities.
Versatile options: Adjust the cranberry quantity or swap in different nuts to make it your own! And if you’re looking for more inspiration, check out my Cranberry Meatballs Holiday for a festive side.
Crowd-pleaser: Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert that will leave your guests raving long after the celebration ends!
Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie Ingredients
For the Filling
• Fresh or Frozen Cranberries – Choose fresh for the best flavor, but frozen works perfectly without thawing.
• Granulated Sugar – Adjust the sweetness based on your taste; this balances the tartness of the cranberries.
• Pecans or Almonds – Toast them for an extra nutty aroma or swap for walnuts for a different flavor.
For the Cake Layer
• Unsalted Butter – Ensures richness; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• Eggs – Important for structure; add one at a time for a fluffy texture.
• Almond Extract or Vanilla Extract – Use almond for a nuttier twist or go for vanilla for a classic touch.
• All-Purpose Flour – Forms the body of the pie; essential for that delightful cake-like consistency.
• Salt – A pinch enhances flavor and balances the sweetness of the filling.
Optional Topping
• Vanilla Ice Cream or Whipped Cream – Serve on the side to elevate the pie experience further!
Gather these ingredients to create your own Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie, and enjoy the cozy flavors of the season!
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 you prepare the pie. Butter a 9-inch pie plate to ensure your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie doesn’t stick. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect flaky, golden crust.
Step 2: Assemble the Filling
In the greased pie plate, layer the fresh or frozen cranberries evenly across the bottom, creating a vibrant foundation. Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the cranberries, and then evenly distribute 1/2 cup of granulated sugar to balance out the tartness.
Step 3: Beat the Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, beat 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This process typically takes about 2-3 minutes and will result in a light, airy consistency that is essential for the cake-like layer of your pie.
Step 4: Add Extracts and Eggs
Next, stir in your choice of almond or vanilla extract for a delightful flavor boost. Then, incorporate the eggs, adding them one at a time, and mix until the batter appears fluffy and well-blended—this usually takes another 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
Gradually add in all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt to the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as you want the final batter to remain light and tender for your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie.
Step 6: Spread the Batter
Using a spatula, carefully spread the sticky batter over the layered cranberries and pecans in the pie plate, ensuring an even distribution. The batter should cover the fruity filling fully, creating a nice seal to hold in the pie’s moisture and flavors during baking.
Step 7: Bake the Pie
Place the assembled pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Keep an eye on it and check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs—this indicates your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie is ready to come out!
Step 8: Serve
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. For an extra indulgent treat, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, elevating the delightful flavors of this festive dessert.
Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie Variations
Feel free to put your personal spin on this delightful pie and make it truly your own!
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Nut-Free: Omit pecans or use sunflower seeds to maintain crunch without the nuts.
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Fruit Twist: Add diced apples or pears to the cranberry filling for a sweet contrast. Enjoy the added texture!
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Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring you still get that lovely cake-like consistency.
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Reduced Sugar: Use maple syrup or honey in place of granulated sugar for a natural sweetening option.
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Flavor Infusion: Try coconut or rum extract to create a unique twist on the traditional flavor profile.
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Cranberry Boost: Increase the quantity of cranberries for a more tart and aromatic experience.
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Spice it Up: Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, festive spice that envelops this pie.
For even more festive inspiration, don’t forget to check out my Gingerbread Brownies or whip up some Vanilla Custard Pie to complete your holiday spread!
What to Serve with Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
As the sweet and tart aroma of cranberry pie fills your home, it’s time to think about delicious pairings that will elevate your festive gatherings.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop brings a creamy contrast that melts beautifully into the warm pie, enhancing every bite.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this classic topping adds a cloud-like sweetness and pairs perfectly with the tart cranberries.
- Cinnamon Sugar Biscuits: The warm spices in these fluffy treats complement the tartness of the pie, adding a delightful crunch with each bite.
Consider a fresh fruit salad alongside; the juicy sweetness of seasonal fruits offers a refreshing balance. It lightens the meal while keeping the holiday spirit alive.
- Sparkling Cider: An effervescent drink that instantly brings festivity to the table, the bubbles cleanse the palate beautifully.
- Coffee or Espresso: The rich flavors of coffee enhance the pie, creating a cozy ending to your holiday feast.
Serve these delightful pairings to turn your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie into the centerpiece of a memorable holiday gathering!
Make Ahead Options
These Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can layer the cranberries, sprinkle sugar, and add nuts up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover the prepared pie plate tightly with plastic wrap, as this helps maintain freshness and prevents browning. The batter can also be prepped and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just give it a quick stir before spreading over the cranberries. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake as directed and serve warm for a dessert that’s just as delicious as when freshly made. This make-ahead strategy alleviates stress and ensures you can serve a festive favorite with ease!
Storage Tips for Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
Room Temperature: Store the pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain its delightful texture and flavor.
Fridge: If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate the pie for up to 5 days, ensuring it’s covered to prevent it from drying out.
Freezer: This Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To enjoy later, thaw the pie in the fridge overnight before reheating in a 350°F (176°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Expert Tips for Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
- Fresh vs. Frozen: Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor, but if using frozen, don’t thaw them; just add a little baking time.
- Avoid Overbaking: Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs to prevent a dry pie.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less tart pie, feel free to reduce the amount of cranberries or increase the sugar slightly.
- Consistent Mixing: Incorporate eggs one at a time and mix until fluffy for the best texture in your cake-like layer.
- Storage Tips: Keep leftover pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for 5 days. It can also be frozen for 3 months!
Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie Recipe FAQs
What kind of cranberries should I use for this pie?
I recommend using fresh cranberries for the best flavor and texture, but frozen cranberries work perfectly too—just toss them in straight from the freezer without thawing!
How long can I store Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie?
Store your pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Just make sure it’s well-covered to retain moisture!
Can I freeze Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie? If so, how?
Absolutely! This pie can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating it in a 350°F (176°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes.
What should I do if my pie turns out too dry?
To avoid dryness, make sure to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs. If it does get too dry, serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream can help add moisture back!
Are there any dietary considerations I should know?
This pie contains nuts, so if you or your guests have nut allergies, you can easily substitute the pecans with a nut-free option or simply omit them entirely. Additionally, it can be made with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Is it okay to adjust the amount of cranberries in the recipe?
Very much so! If you prefer a sweeter pie, you can reduce the number of cranberries to lessen the tartness or increase the sugar slightly to balance it out. It’s all about making it your own!
Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie - A Festive Family Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (176°C) and butter a 9-inch pie plate.
- Layer cranberries evenly across the bottom of the pie plate. Sprinkle pecans and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar over cranberries.
- In a mixing bowl, beat 1/2 cup of softened butter and 1 cup of sugar until smooth and creamy for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in almond or vanilla extract, then add eggs one at a time and mix until fluffy for another 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually add flour and salt, mixing gently until just combined.
- Spread the batter over the fruit layer evenly.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
- Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
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