The moment I unwrapped the fragrant dish of Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie, memories of joyful gatherings and laughter swirled through the air. This festive delicacy, with its bright crimson cranberry filling contrasted by crunchy pecans and a tender cake-like crust, is my secret weapon for holiday celebrations. Perfectly suited for Christmas, this recipe is a breeze to prepare, making it an effortless crowd-pleaser that warms hearts and homes alike. Plus, it can easily cater to gluten-free diets without sacrificing flavor! Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an enchanting dessert experience. Who wouldn’t want a slice of this delightful holiday treat? Are you ready to impress your loved ones with a dessert that captures the spirit of the season?
Why Is This Pie a Holiday Must-Have?
Bursting with flavor: The Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie delivers a delightful tangy-sweet experience that embodies the spirit of Christmas.
Simple to create: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, even novice bakers can master this festive dessert.
Versatile for gatherings: Whether it’s a holiday party or a cozy family dinner, this pie is sure to impress and satisfy all palates.
Gluten-free friendly: Easily swap in gluten-free flour to make this tantalizing treat accessible for everyone.
A crowd-pleaser: Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream, and watch it disappear in a flash! For another festive twist, consider trying my Apple Pie Bars or festive Pumpkin Pie Cookie recipes!
Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie Ingredients
For the Cranberry Filling
• Fresh or Frozen Cranberries – Provides tartness and flavor; frozen cranberries do not need to be thawed before use.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and balances the tartness; adjust quantity according to taste.
• Pecans or Almonds – Adds crunch and nuttiness; feel free to substitute with any preferred nut or omit entirely if desired.
For the Cake Layer
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; ensure butter is softened for easier mixing.
• Eggs – Provides structure and stability to the pie; beat eggs until fluffy for a light batter.
• Almond or Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; choose based on personal preference, as both add warmth.
• All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the cake layer; for gluten-free, substitute with a 1:1 flour blend.
• Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pie Plate
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (176°C). While it heats, take a 9-inch pie plate and generously butter its interior using about one tablespoon of unsalted butter. This will ensure that your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie releases easily after baking and has a beautifully golden crust.
Step 2: Arrange the Cranberry Filling
In the prepared pie plate, evenly spread 2 cups of fresh or frozen cranberries across the bottom, creating a vibrant layer. Next, sprinkle ½ cup of granulated sugar and your chopped pecans or almonds over the cranberries. This combination will enhance the tartness of the cranberries while giving a delightful crunchy texture.
Step 3: Make the Cake Batter
In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened butter (about 1 stick) with the remaining 1 cup of granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. This should take around 2-3 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks light and fluffy. Don’t rush; the creaminess will contribute to the texture of your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie.
Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Extract
Now, add your choice of almond or vanilla extract (1 teaspoon) to the butter mixture, followed by the eggs (2). Beat each egg in one at a time, mixing well until the batter is fluffy and fully combined. This step is crucial for achieving that light, airy layer atop the cranberries.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
Gradually incorporate 1 cup of all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt into the batter, mixing on low speed until just combined. The batter will be thick and sticky, which is perfectly normal. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to preserve the lightness needed for the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie’s topping.
Step 6: Spread the Batter Over Cranberries
With a spatula, spread the sticky batter evenly over the cranberry and nut mixture in the pie plate. Take your time to create an even layer, which will bake beautifully into a cake-like topping. This step will seal in the cranberries’ tartness while forming a lovely crust.
Step 7: Bake the Pie
Place the pie plate in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the top should turn golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs. This visual cue is key for ensuring your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie is perfectly baked without being overdone.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once done baking, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate festive treat. Enjoy the moments as you share this delightful dessert with friends and family during the holiday season!
Expert Tips for Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
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Cranberry Freshness: Use fresh cranberries or frozen (no thawing needed) for the best flavor. Freshness ensures the pie isn’t overly tart or bitter.
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Sugar Adjustments: Tailor the quantity of granulated sugar to your taste. If cranberries are particularly tart, sneak in an extra tablespoon for balance.
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Nut Options: Pecans are traditional, but walnuts or almonds work beautifully too. If nut-free, simply omit them for a creamy consistency.
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Mix Lightly: Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense pie. Stir until just combined, allowing your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie to maintain the right texture.
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Doneness Check: Start checking for doneness at 45 minutes. A toothpick coming out with a few moist crumbs is perfect; overbaking can dry out the pie.
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Serving Warm: For the best experience, serve your pie warm alongside vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. The warmth enhances the flavors, making every bite unforgettable!
What to Serve with Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
Indulge in the perfect holiday meal by complementing your delightful dessert with flavorful sides and drinks that take the festive spirit up a notch.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth, rich texture of buttery mashed potatoes creates a delicious contrast to the tartness of the pie.
- Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts: The sweetness from the maple syrup enhances the savory notes, refreshing your palate after each slice.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their caramelized edges and subtle sweetness harmonize beautifully with the tangy cranberry filling.
- Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp and vibrant, green beans add a fresh crunch that balances the pie’s sweetness and richness.
- Herbed Stuffing: A warm, savory stuffing filled with sage and thyme pairs wonderfully, grounding your meal in tradition and comfort.
- Mulled Cider: Sipping on warm spiced apple cider adds a cozy note, wrapping you in holiday cheer as you enjoy your pie.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic addition that melts into the warm cranberry layers, enhancing the flavors and creating a delightful creaminess.
- Chocolate Tart: For those who crave more, a rich chocolate tart goes perfectly with the pie, satisfying chocolate lovers at your table.
Make Ahead Options
These Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie preparations are perfect for busy cooks! You can prepare the cranberry filling and spread it on the pie plate up to 24 hours in advance. Just combine the cranberries, sugar, and nuts, and cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating. The cake batter can be mixed and stored in an airtight container for about 3 days; when you’re ready to bake, simply spread it over the cranberries and pop it in the oven. This method keeps the pie just as delicious, letting you save time during the holiday rush while still delivering a stunning, festive dessert. Enjoy the convenience without sacrificing flavor!
How to Store and Freeze Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
Room Temperature: Keep the pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. This will maintain its delightful texture and flavor.
Fridge: Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, ensuring it’s well-covered to prevent it from drying out. Reheat slices in the microwave for a warm treat.
Freezer: You can freeze the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, to prevent freezer burn.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and serve at room temperature or warm it gently in the oven for the best experience!
Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to add your personal touch to this delightful pie to make it truly yours!
- Nut-Free: Omit the nuts entirely for a smooth texture, or substitute with sunflower seeds for a crunchy twist.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a cozy warmth that perfectly complements the cranberries.
- Change the Fruit: Swap out some cranberries for diced apples or pears for a sweeter spin on the filling.
- Alternative Sweeteners: Use maple syrup or honey in place of granulated sugar for a different sweetness dimension.
- Vegan Twist: Replace butter with coconut oil, eggs with flax eggs, and use a plant-based milk for a vegan-friendly version.
- Texture Boost: Mix in a layer of cream cheese or ricotta for added creaminess and a rich flavor contrast with the cranberries.
- Zesty Lemon: Add lemon zest to the batter or filling to brighten the flavors and add a refreshing zing.
- Extra Crunch: Include a streusel topping made of oats and brown sugar for a delightful crunch on top, enhancing both flavor and texture.
Let your creativity lead you, and don’t hesitate to explore these variations! Each twist can bring a new experience to the table and complement festive occasions. If you’re in the mood for more holiday treats, consider checking my {Apple Pie Bars](https://spoonvista.com/apple-pie-bars-with-salted-peanut-butter-caramel/) or charming Pumpkin Pie Cookie recipes!
Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie Recipe FAQs
What kind of cranberries should I use?
Absolutely! You can use either fresh or frozen cranberries. Fresh cranberries are ideal for their tartness, but if you opt for frozen, there’s no need to thaw them before use. Simply toss them directly into your pie plate for ease of preparation!
How should I store leftover Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie?
For short-term storage, keep the pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to store it longer, wrap it tightly and place it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This method will help maintain its delightful texture and flavors.
Can I freeze this pie, and how do I do it?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and serve it at room temperature or gently warm it in the oven for the freshest taste.
What if my pie is too dry or too moist?
If you find your pie is too dry, it could be a sign of overbaking. I recommend checking for doneness at 45 minutes; the toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs. For a moist pie, be cautious not to overmix the batter and ensure that the cranberries are fresh. If it’s too moist, lightly toast the nuts beforehand to help absorb any excess moisture.
Can I modify this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Very! This Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie is versatile. For a gluten-free option, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. If you’re avoiding nuts, you can omit them entirely without sacrificing flavor. Just keep the creamy consistency from the cake layer in mind, and you’ll have a delicious dessert that everyone can enjoy!
Is this pie suitable for pets?
No, it’s best not to share this pie with pets. Ingredients like sugar and certain nuts can be harmful to animals. Always keep your culinary delights for human enjoyment, and treat your furry friends with pet-safe snacks instead!
Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie That Will Brighten Your Christmas
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C). Butter the interior of a 9-inch pie plate generously.
- In the pie plate, spread 2 cups of cranberries, sprinkle 0.5 cups of granulated sugar and chopped pecans or almonds on top.
- In a mixing bowl, beat 1 stick of softened butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar until creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add 1 teaspoon of almond or vanilla extract and the 2 eggs, mixing well after adding each egg.
- Gradually add 1 cup of all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt, mixing on low until just combined.
- Spread the batter evenly over the cranberry mixture in the pie plate.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, until the top is golden brown and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Let the pie cool for a few minutes before serving warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
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