When the holiday season approaches, you likely begin to think about recipes that capture the spirit of joy and connection. One such delightful treat that brings smiles and warmth to any gathering is the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie. This vibrant, flavorful pie combines fresh cranberries with a rich pecan topping, all nestled in a comforting crust. Each bite is a beautifully balanced mix of tart and sweet, reminding you of festive family gatherings and the warmth of the kitchen.
Why We Love This Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie Recipe
This Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie has a special place in the hearts of many. First and foremost, the vibrant taste of cranberries shines through, creating a perfect counterbalance to the sweetness of sugar and richness of pecans. Every slice offers a delightful crunch from the pecans and a burst of tartness from the cranberries. Furthermore, it is incredibly easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for those who want to impress their guests without extensive preparation. Whether you are celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a casual family dinner, this pie adds a festive flair to any occasion.
Ingredients about Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
To create this delightful pie, gather the following ingredients:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 pre-made pie crust
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped topping for serving
How to Make Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie Directions
Preparing this Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie is a simple process that yields delicious results. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This sets the stage for even baking and a perfectly golden crust.
In a mixing bowl, take the fresh cranberries and combine them with the sugar. Mix gently, ensuring that the cranberries are coated well in the sugar, and then set this mixture aside. The sugar will help draw out some of the tartness from the cranberries, enhancing their flavor.
Next, in a separate bowl, combine the chopped pecans, all-purpose flour, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Use a whisk or a fork to mix these ingredients until they form a smooth and creamy batter. This pecan layer will add an incredible texture to your pie, offering bursts of crunch and nutty flavor with every bite.
Now it’s time to assemble your pie! Take your pre-made pie crust and spread the cranberry mixture evenly across the bottom. The vibrant red of the cranberries should be visible, promising a tart flavor that will complement the sweet topping. Then, gently pour the pecan mixture over the cranberries, ensuring that it covers them completely. As it bakes, the pecan layer will form a beautiful, golden crust on top.
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling slightly. Allow the pie to cool for a bit after taking it out of the oven; this will help it set and make slicing easier.
How to Serve Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
Serving your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie is as fun as making it! Allow the pie to cool slightly before slicing—it helps to avoid a messy presentation. You can serve each slice on a plate, adorned with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped topping, whichever you prefer. The cold creaminess of the ice cream or whipped topping contrasts beautifully with the warm pie, enhancing every bite.
This pie also shines as a standout addition to your dessert table. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, this pie offers a stunning visual presentation with its vibrant colors. Guests will be excited to dig in and savor the unique flavors that you have crafted.
Expert Tips: Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
To make the most of your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie, here are a few expert tips to ensure excellent results:
- Fresh vs. Frozen Cranberries: While fresh cranberries offer the best flavor, you can also use frozen cranberries. If you opt for frozen, do not thaw them before using; simply add them directly to your sugar mixture.
- Pecan Chopping: Be sure to chop your pecans into small pieces. This not only helps with even distribution but also enhances the texture of each bite.
- Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet pie, consider reducing the sugar by a quarter cup. The cranberries will still provide enough tartness to balance the flavors.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your pie during the last few minutes of baking. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture; you want the top to be just golden and the filling bubbly.
- Add Zest: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding the zest of an orange or lemon to the cranberry mixture. This will brighten the pie and bring a delightful citrus note.
How to Store Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
Storing your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie is simple and straightforward. After the pie has cooled completely, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep the pie longer, consider freezing it.
To freeze, slice the pie and wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can easily enjoy a slice whenever the craving hits! The pie can be frozen for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw the slices in the fridge overnight and reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to restore its delicious warmth.
Variation of Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
This versatile recipe can be easily modified to suit various preferences and dietary needs. Here are some tasty variations you might consider:
- Nut Alternatives: If you’re allergic to pecans or just prefer another nut, walnuts or almonds make excellent substitutes. They offer similar textures but provide different flavor profiles.
- Gluten-Free Option: To make a gluten-free version of this pie, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the pre-made pie crust is also gluten-free.
- Add Fruit: You can enhance the pie by mixing in other fruits such as diced apples or pears. These additions will create a more complex flavor and a delightful texture.
- Spices: For a warm, spiced flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the pecan mixture. This will create a cozy aroma that complements the cranberries perfectly.
- Chocolate Lovers: If you have a sweet tooth, adding semi-sweet chocolate chips to the pecan layer will elevate this pie into a decadent dessert everyone will love.
FAQ about Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
What is Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie?
Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie is a festive dessert that features fresh cranberries and a pecan topping in a pre-made pie crust. It is perfect for holiday gatherings and celebrations.
How do I serve Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie?
You can serve it warm, topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, making for a delicious contrast between the hot pie and cold topping.
How can I store leftover Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie?
Store the pie in the refrigerator for up to three days in an airtight container. You can also freeze it for up to two months, wrapping slices individually in plastic wrap.
Can I make substitutions in the recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds and use a gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Adding spices or other fruits can also enhance the flavor.
How long will it take to bake Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie?
The pie typically bakes for 30 to 35 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
By following this comprehensive guide, you’re equipped to create a delightful Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie that will surely impress anyone who tastes it. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie
Ingredients
For the pie filling
- 2 cups fresh cranberries Fresh cranberries are preferred, but frozen can be used.
- 1 cup sugar Adjust sweetness as desired.
- 1 pre-made pie crust pre-made pie crust Ensure the crust is thawed if frozen.
For the pecan topping
- 1 cup chopped pecans Chop pecans into small pieces for better texture.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour Can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
For serving
- to taste vanilla ice cream or whipped topping Optional, for serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the fresh cranberries and sugar. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, combine chopped pecans, flour, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until smooth.
Assembly
- Spread the cranberry mixture evenly in the pre-made pie crust.
- Pour the pecan mixture over the cranberries, covering them completely.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Allow the pie to cool before slicing.
Serving
- Slice the pie and serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped topping.
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