Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie: An Easy Indulgence You’ll Love

Name: Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie: An Easy Indulgence You’ll Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh cranberries; 1 cup sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3 tablespoons cornstarch; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 pie crust

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Rachel E.

Published:

December 5

Introduction to Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that captures the essence of the holidays, the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie is a fantastic choice. This pie combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with a touch of sweetness and warmth, making it an inviting centerpiece for any gathering. But why should you specifically consider this pie for your next holiday get-together?

Why make Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie for your next gathering?

Unique Flavor Profile: The Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie stands out from the typical holiday sweets. With its combination of tangy cranberries and the comforting notes of cinnamon and nutmeg, it’s a flavor experience that’s sure to impress your guests. According to Food Science experts, cranberries are packed with antioxidants, making this pie not only delicious but also a healthier indulgence.
A Festive Touch: This pie is not just a treat for the taste buds; it also adds a stunning visual element to your dessert table. The vibrant red of the cranberries against a flaky crust brings a festivity that screams “happy holidays.” For more ideas on festive desserts, check out Food & Wine.
Perfect Make-Ahead Dessert: One of the best aspects of the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie is that it can be made in advance. With its ability to maintain flavor and texture even after a few days in the fridge, you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of your loved ones.
Crowd Pleaser: When you serve this pie, be prepared for compliments! Its delightful balance of tart and sweet flavors caters to various palates. Whether your friends are cranberry fans or are experiencing the joy of cranberries for the first time, this pie has the potential to win hearts.

So next time you’re planning a holiday gathering, consider adding the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie to your menu. It’s a delightful blend of flavors, striking visuals, and a great way to share something special with those you care about. Ready to impress your guests? Let’s get baking!

Ingredients for Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie

When it comes to creating the perfect Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie, you’ll want to gather the freshest ingredients that celebrate the joys of the season. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful dessert that the entire family will love:

Fresh Cranberries: 4 cups, washed and sorted
Granulated Sugar: 1 cup, to balance the tartness of the cranberries
Brown Sugar: ½ cup, to add a hint of caramel flavor
Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon, for that warm spice note
Ground Nutmeg: ¼ teaspoon, to enhance the holiday vibes
Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed for brightness
All-Purpose Flour: 2 tablespoons, to help thicken the filling
Pie Crust: 1 standard, store-bought or homemade—your choice for ease and taste
Butter: 2 tablespoons, for a deliciously rich topping
Egg Wash: 1 egg, beaten, to achieve that lovely golden crust on top

These ingredients come together to create a pie that’s not just a treat, but a part of your tradition. If you’re curious about how to incorporate seasonal fruits or even elevate this recipe further, check out cooking tips here. 🥧🍂

Embrace the spirit of the holidays with this comforting dish! Have questions or need tips? I’m here to help!

Preparing Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie

Creating a Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie is a delightful journey filled with rich flavors and comforting textures that are perfect for holiday gatherings. This recipe combines tart cranberries with a sweet cake layer that complements them beautifully. Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into the steps!

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start crafting this delightful pie, ensure you have all your ingredients ready. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the cranberry filling:
2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
1 cup sugar
1/4 cup water
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
For the cake layer:
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup milk
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Once you have your ingredients, feel free to pop a festive playlist on and set the mood for your baking.

Prepare the Cranberry Filling

The cranberry filling is the star of your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie. Start by rinsing the cranberries and picking out any that look squishy or spoiled. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, vanilla extract, and salt.

Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
You’ll notice the cranberries start to pop and release their vibrant juices after about 5-7 minutes.
Once the mixture thickens to a sauce-like consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.

For those interested in the health benefits of cranberries, they are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, making them a fantastic holiday ingredient.

Make the Cake Layer

Now that your cranberry filling is ready, let’s whip up the cake layer. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and sugar, beating until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating that perfect cake texture.

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well in between.
Pour in the milk and the second teaspoon of vanilla.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don’t overmix; a few lumps are okay!

Combine and Layer

The fun part is layering! Grease a 9-inch pie dish with butter or baking spray. Pour about half of the cake batter into the bottom of the pie dish, spreading it evenly.

Gently spoon the cranberry filling over this layer.
Finally, pour the remaining batter over the cranberries, trying to cover them as much as you can. It’s okay if some peeks through—it adds to the charm!

This layered technique is not only visually appealing, but it also ensures each slice delivers a balanced mix of cake and cranberry.

Bake the Pie

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place your pie in the oven and bake it for about 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out clean.

After removing it from the oven, let your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie cool for at least 15 minutes. This waiting period will allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra festive touch.

Creating your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie is a blend of flavors, textures, and pure holiday spirit. Why not experiment with this delightful recipe for your next gathering? Feel free to share your results, and happy baking!

Variations on Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie

Exploring variations on the traditional Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie can elevate your dessert game in delightful ways, particularly as you navigate the flavor profiles and textures that resonate with your gatherings. Here are some fantastic ideas to consider!

Adding Other Fruits for Flavor

While cranberries are the star of the show, adding complementary fruits can enhance the flavor of your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie. How about mixing in:

Apples: Their natural sweetness contrasts with the tartness of cranberries, adding a delightful crunch.
Pears: They bring a soft texture and a gentle sweetness that balances nicely.
Oranges: Just a hint of orange zest can infuse a refreshing brightness into your pie.

Feel free to experiment! You can combine any of these fruits for a unique twist. For more on fruit pairings, check out this guide.

Nut Substitutes for Different Textures

If you’re looking to shake things up further, consider swapping nuts in your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie filling. While pecans and walnuts are classic choices, you can try:

Almonds: Sliced or slivered for a delicate crunch.
Hazelnuts: These lend a rich, nutty flavor that’s a lovely complement to the cranberries.
Sunflower Seeds: If you’re nut-free, these seeds can add an unexpected crunch without overpowering the other flavors.

Remember, the goal is to create a pie that not only tastes great but also feels like a warm hug in dessert form. Feel free to get creative and make it your own!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie

Creating a perfect Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie is a delightful journey in the kitchen. Here are some essential tips to ensure your pie shines this holiday season.

Understanding Your Ingredients

Fresh vs. Frozen Cranberries: While fresh cranberries provide that vivid tartness, frozen cranberries can save you time. Just be sure to rinse them and let them thaw before using. For inspiration, check out this resource on choosing cranberries.

Dough Mastery

Crust Consistency: For a flaky crust, ensure your butter is cold. Using a pastry cutter or your hands works well. Remember, less mixing is more when it comes to pie dough!

Flavor Enhancements

Spices Matter: Don’t shy away from adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. These spices complement the cranberries beautifully.

Baking to Perfection

Watch Your Oven: Pies can take varying times depending on your oven. Keep an eye on the crust to avoid over-browning.

With these tips, your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie will surely become the star of your festive gatherings. Enjoy the process and remember to taste as you go!

Serving Suggestions for Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie

When it comes to enjoying your delightful Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie, the side dishes and accompaniments can elevate your experience to new heights. Let’s explore some fabulous serving suggestions that will make this pie the star of your holiday table.

Perfect Pairings

Savory Elements: Consider serving your pie alongside savory options like roasted Turkey Bacon or slices of lean Chicken Ham. The salty flavors beautifully contrast the tartness of the cranberries, enhancing your dessert experience.
Creamy Toppers: A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream will provide a silky finish against the pie’s crunchy crust. If you’re feeling adventurous, a scoop of cinnamon ice cream brings in some warmth and spice.

Coffee or Tea?

Pair your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie with a warm cup of spiced chai or a rich dark roast coffee. The warmth will complement the sweetness of the pie, making each bite even more indulgent.

Visiting food blogs like Smitten Kitchen can offer more inspiring pairing ideas or ways to customize your presentation.

Sweet Garnishes

Don’t forget the final touch! Sprigs of mint or a dusting of powdered sugar can add a beautiful finishing touch, making your pie not just delicious but visually appealing too.

By incorporating these simple yet delightful suggestions, you’re sure to impress your guests and create memorable moments this holiday season with your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie. Happy baking!

Tips for Mastering Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie

Creating a stunning Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie may seem like a daunting task, but with the right strategies, you can nail it like a pro! Here are some tips to elevate this festive dessert to the next level:

Choose the Right Ingredients

Using fresh cranberries is key to unlocking the pie’s vibrant flavor. You’ll want to source the best quality you can find—look for plump, bright-red berries at your local farmers market. If they’re out of season, consider high-quality frozen cranberries as a backup.

Don’t Rush the Crust

The perfect pie crust is flaky and tender. For best results, chill your butter and even your flour before mixing to achieve that ideal texture. If you’re short on time, pre-made pie crusts can work in a pinch, but don’t skimp on flavor; always check the ingredient list for quality.

Add a Flavor Surprise

For that extra Nantucket twist, consider incorporating citrus zests, such as orange or lemon, into your filling. It brightens the overall taste and complements the tartness of the cranberries wonderfully.

Let it Cool

Once out of the oven, give your pie time to cool for at least an hour. Not only will this help the filling set, but it also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie. Happy baking!

Time details for Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie

Preparation time

Getting started on your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie is a breeze! You’ll need about 30 minutes to prep those fresh ingredients. Make sure you have your crust ready to go—whether homemade or store-bought.

Baking time

Once your pie is ready to hit the oven, it will take around 45 minutes to bake. You’ll want to keep an eye on it towards the end, making sure that golden brown hue is just right.

Total time

In total, you’re looking at 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish. It’s a delightful investment of your time that promises a deliciously festive dessert! Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or treating yourself, this pie is sure to impress. If you’d like to dive deeper into cranberry pie’s background, check out this resource from The Smithsonian.

Nutritional information for Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie

When indulging in a slice of Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie, it’s good to know what you’re treating your body to. Let’s break it down:

Calories

Each slice of this delightful pie packs approximately 250 calories. It’s a perfect dessert option for festive gatherings without being overwhelmingly rich.

Protein

You can expect about 3 grams of protein per serving. While it’s not a significant protein source, it contributes to the overall nutritional balance of your holiday feast.

Sugar

Be mindful that this pie contains around 20 grams of sugar per slice. Most of this sweetness comes from natural cranberry and added sugars, so savor every bite in moderation!

For more insights on managing sugar intake while enjoying your favorite treats, check out the American Heart Association. With Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie, you can indulge a little while also being aware of your choices!

FAQs about Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie

If you’re diving into the delightful world of Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie, you might have some questions. Don’t worry; we’ve got the answers lined up for you!

Can I use frozen cranberries?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries are a fantastic option when fresh ones are out of season or hard to find. Just remember to rinse and drain them before using, as they might have some ice buildup. If you’re curious about the differences, check out this guide on using fresh versus frozen fruit for baking. Of course, using fresh will offer a slightly brighter flavor, but you won’t go wrong with frozen!

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Storing your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie is a breeze. Once cooled, cover the pie loosely with plastic wrap or foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It should last about 3 to 4 days. If you’re storing individual slices, place them in an airtight container. For an extended lifespan, consider freezing portions—just remember to thaw in the fridge overnight before serving!

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Definitely! In fact, making the pie a day in advance can enhance the flavors as they have time to meld together. Just keep in mind that if you make it too far ahead, the crust might lose some of its crispness. If you’re planning to serve it on a holiday, consider baking it the day before and then reheating it gently before serving. This pie can be a showstopper at your holiday table, even when made in advance!

For more tips on pie preparation, feel free to check this handy resource on baking techniques. Happy baking!

Conclusion on Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie

With its unique combination of tart cranberries and sweet spices, Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie is the quintessential dessert for your next holiday gathering. Not only does it have an inviting aroma that fills your kitchen, but the blend of textures—from the flaky crust to the luscious filling—offers a delightful contrast that will impress your guests.

As you savor each bite, consider how this dish not only adds festive flair to your table but also evokes memories of cherished holiday gatherings. So, whether you pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, this pie is sure to become a seasonal favorite. For more delightful recipes and tips, check out other resources like The Spruce Eats or Food Network!