The Ultimate Cranberry-Apple Pie Recipe

Have you ever wondered why some pies evoke memories of family gatherings and festive celebrations? One such pie is the Cranberry-Apple Pie, a scrumptious blend of tart cranberries and sweet apples that creates a flavor profile perfect for any occasion. This delightful dessert not only tantalizes your taste buds but also fills your home with an irresistible aroma. In this post, we will explore everything you need to know about making the perfect Cranberry-Apple Pie, from ingredients to serving suggestions, ensuring your dessert stands out at any gathering.

Ingredients List

To create a delicious Cranberry-Apple Pie, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• For the Pie Crust:
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
  • 6-8 tablespoons ice water
• For the Filling:
  • 3 cups fresh cranberries (or frozen, thawed)
  • 3 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well), peeled and sliced
  • 1 cup sugar (adjust based on sweetness preference)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Substitutions:

• For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Use coconut sugar instead of regular sugar for a healthier alternative.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

1. In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Cut in the chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
4. Divide the dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine cranberries, sliced apples, sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
2. Toss gently to coat the fruits evenly and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out one disc of dough on a floured surface to fit your pie pan.
3. Place the rolled dough into the pie pan, pressing gently to fit.
4. Fill with the cranberry-apple mixture, spreading it evenly.
5. Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the filling. Seal the edges and cut slits in the top crust for steam to escape.
6. Brush the top crust with an egg wash (1 beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon of water) and sprinkle with sugar.

Step 4: Bake the Pie

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
2. Allow the pie to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving.

Nutritional Information

Understanding the nutritional content can help you enjoy your Cranberry-Apple Pie guilt-free. Here’s a breakdown per slice (1/8 of the pie):

• Calories: 320
• Total Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 35mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 45g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 18g
• Protein: 2g

Data Insight: This pie is a great source of dietary fiber thanks to the apples and cranberries, making it a more wholesome dessert option.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to lighten up your Cranberry-Apple Pie without sacrificing flavor, consider these modifications:

• Use Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Reduce Sugar: Cut the sugar in the filling by one-third, as the natural sweetness of the apples can often be enough.
• Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the filling for healthy fats and a delightful crunch.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Cranberry-Apple Pie experience, consider these serving suggestions:

• Serve Warm with Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream complements the warm pie beautifully.
• Pair with Cheese: A slice of sharp cheddar cheese on the side adds a savory contrast to the sweet pie.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh mint or a dusting of powdered sugar can enhance the presentation and flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Cranberry-Apple Pie, keep these common pitfalls in mind:

• Overmixing the Dough: This can lead to a tough crust. Mix just until combined.
• Not Chilling the Dough: Chilling helps the butter solidify, resulting in a flakier crust.
• Skipping the Egg Wash: This step is crucial for achieving a golden-brown finish on the crust.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To keep your Cranberry-Apple Pie fresh:

• Refrigerate Leftovers: Store any uneaten pie in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the pie before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to bake, bake from frozen, adding additional time as needed.
• Reheating: To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

Conclusion

In summary, the Cranberry-Apple Pie is a delightful dessert that combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of apples, creating a perfect balance of flavors. With its beautiful presentation and rich aroma, this pie is sure to impress at any gathering. We invite you to try this recipe, share your feedback in the comments, and subscribe for more delicious updates!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?

Yes, frozen cranberries can be used. Just thaw them and drain excess moisture before mixing with the apples.

2. How can I make the pie crust ahead of time?

You can prepare the pie crust up to 3 days in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to use.

3. What if I don’t have cornstarch?

You can substitute cornstarch with all-purpose flour or arrowroot powder in the filling to help thicken it.