Name: Delicious Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie for Festive Joy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Fresh or Frozen Cranberries (Use fresh for best flavor, frozen can be added without thawing.); 0.5 cups Granulated Sugar (Adjust to taste.); 1 cups Pecans or Almonds (Add crunch; can be swapped or omitted for nut-free.); 1 cups Unsalted Butter (Room temperature.); 3 large Eggs (Provides binding.); 1 teaspoon Almond Extract or Vanilla Extract (Enhances flavor.); 1.5 cups All-Purpose Flour (Substitute with gluten-free blend if needed.); 0.5 teaspoon Salt (Enhances overall flavor.)

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Gather ‘round the table, because I have a delightful treat to share that will transport you straight to a cozy Nantucket winter. This Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of the season! Every forkful of this charming pie reveals a tangy cranberry filling topped with a delightful crunch from pecans, all enveloped in a tender, cake-like crust. It’s a special addition to your Christmas recipes, perfect for both entertaining guests and enjoying a quiet night in. Plus, this recipe offers a gluten-free option, making it accessible for everyone. As you savor every slice warm from the oven, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, you’ll understand why this pie is set to become a festive favorite. Are you ready to dive into the joy of holiday baking?

Why is this pie a holiday must-have?

Irresistible Flavors: The balance of tart cranberries and sweet pecans creates a mouthwatering taste that sings of the season.
Easy to Make: Don’t worry—this recipe is straightforward, allowing even novice bakers to impress guests.
Customizable: Whether you’re a fan of almonds or prefer to keep it nut-free, the recipe allows for delightful variations.
Gluten-Free Option: Everyone can indulge! Simply swap to a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious alternative.
Perfect for Gatherings: This Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie is sure to steal the show at your festive table and bring smiles to all!

Pair it with a warm scoop of vanilla ice cream for an unforgettable finish. If you love the combination of tart and sweet, check out more of my Christmas recipes.

Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie Ingredients

For the Filling
• Fresh or Frozen Cranberries – Use fresh for the best flavor, but frozen can be added directly without thawing.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens to balance the tart cranberries; adjust based on personal taste.
• Pecans or Almonds – Adds a delightful crunch; feel free to swap with another nut or omit for a nut-free version.

For the Batter
• Unsalted Butter – Use room temperature for easier mixing and a richer flavor.
• Eggs – Provides binding and richness; large eggs work best.
• Almond Extract or Vanilla Extract – Enhances the pie’s flavor; choose your favorite for a personal touch.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; for a gluten-free option, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Salt – Brings out the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.

With these simple and delightful ingredients, your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie will be the star of your holiday celebrations!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (176°C). While the oven warms, butter a 9-inch pie plate generously to prevent sticking. Next, spread the fresh or frozen cranberries evenly across the bottom of the prepared pie plate, then sprinkle with chopped pecans and half a cup of granulated sugar to create a sweet-tart filling that will transform during baking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a medium mixing bowl, combine one cup of softened unsalted butter with one cup of granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, cream the ingredients together on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and light in color, about 3-5 minutes. This step ensures that your batter for the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie is fluffy and well-aerated.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Extracts
Once the butter and sugar are thoroughly creamed, add the almond or vanilla extract, followed by the eggs, one at a time. Mix each egg into the batter until it’s fully incorporated and fluffy, which should take roughly 30 seconds for each egg. This will enhance the flavor and richness of your pie, contributing to its delightful texture.

Step 4: Mix in Dry Ingredients
Carefully add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet mixture. Using the mixer on low speed, combine until just incorporated; be cautious not to overmix, as this may make the pie tough. The batter will be somewhat sticky as you create that tender, cake-like consistency essential for the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie.

Step 5: Spread the Batter
Once combined, spoon the thick batter over the cranberries in the prepared pie plate. Use a spatula to gently spread the batter evenly over the surface, ensuring complete coverage of the fruit below. This step is crucial for a beautifully baked pie with a pleasing texture that complements the tart cranberry filling.

Step 6: Bake the Pie
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Begin checking for doneness after 40 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with just a few moist crumbs attached. The top of the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie should be golden and slightly crisp, enticing you with its warm aroma.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked to perfection, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. For the ultimate festive experience, serve warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. Enjoy your delightful Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie with family and friends, making it a memorable centerpiece of your holiday gatherings.

What to Serve with Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie

Nothing warms the heart quite like a festive dessert paired perfectly with comforting sides and drinks.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A rich, creamy scoop beautifully balances the tartness of the pie, enhancing its flavors and elevating each bite.
Whipped Cream: This light, airy topping adds a delightful finish and contrasts the pie’s texture, perfect for the holiday spirit.
Spiced Apple Cider: Warm, spiced apple cider creates a comforting beverage pairing, echoing the fruity notes of the pie while enveloping you in cozy aromas.
Pecan Tart: Introduce another layer of texture and nutty sweetness to your spread, which harmonizes beautifully with the pie’s flavor profile.
Roasted Vegetables: A side of savory roasted veggies provides a hearty contrast, balancing the sweet dessert while adding a touch of seasonal warmth.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a classic twist, serve these alongside the pie—chocolate and cranberries are a delightful duo that will please all ages.
Ginger Ale: Bubbly ginger ale complements the pie’s tartness with a refreshing zing, making it a lovely pairing for casual family gatherings.
Cheese Platter: A selection of sharp cheeses offers a savory contrast that beautifully balances the sweet and tart elements of the cranberry pie.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Although unconventional, a small spoonful of buttery mashed potatoes can lend a comforting touch, enhancing your holiday feast experience.

Expert Tips for Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie

Choose Fresh Cranberries: Select fresh cranberries for the best flavor; if using frozen, check for slight adjustments in baking time.
Watch the Baking Time: Avoid overbaking; the perfect pie will have a moist center with a toothpick coming out with just a few crumbs.
Pre-toast Your Nuts: For a deeper flavor, consider pre-toasting the pecans or almonds before adding them to the filling.
Don’t Skip the Room Temperature Butter: Using softened butter helps create a well-aerated batter, resulting in a fluffier Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie.
Experiment with Extracts: Try swapping almond extract for vanilla or another flavor to customize your pie; each brings its unique essence to the dessert.

How to Store and Freeze Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie

Room Temperature: Cover the pie with plastic wrap or foil; it can be left at room temperature for up to 2 days for optimal freshness.

Fridge: Store the pie tightly wrapped in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This helps maintain its moist texture and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pie for up to 3 months. Wrap it in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. To reheat, warm individual slices in a microwave or heat the entire pie in a preheated oven at 350°F (176°C) for about 15-20 minutes. Enjoy your delicious Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie warm!

Make Ahead Options

These Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie preparations are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the cranberry filling (mixing cranberries, sugar, and pecans) up to 3 days in advance. Simply refrigerate it in an airtight container to keep the flavors fresh. The batter can also be made up to 24 hours ahead; just store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, spread the prepared batter over the cranberry mixture in the pie plate and bake as usual. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious homemade pie with minimal effort, allowing you to focus on holiday festivities!

Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie Variations

Get ready to unleash your creativity in the kitchen with these delightful twists on the classic Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie!

Nut-Free: Omit the pecans entirely for a nut-free version. Enjoy the cake-like topping without any crunch for a simple yet satisfying dessert.
Maple-Flavored: Swap almond extract for maple extract to add a warm, sweet depth to the pie. This will evoke cozy memories of festive breakfasts.
Brown Sugar Topping: Use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a richer flavor profile that enhances the natural sweetness of cranberries. The caramel notes will certainly delight your taste buds.
Berry Blend: Mix in other berries like blueberries or raspberries along with cranberries for a fruity explosion. This not only boosts flavor but brings color to your festive spread!
Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the batter for a refreshing citrus twist that perfectly complements the tartness of the cranberries. It adds brightness and balances the flavors beautifully.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground ginger for some unexpected heat. These warm spices will elevate the flavor and bring a new dimension to your holiday dessert.
Chocolate Indulgence: Fold in mini chocolate chips into the batter for a delightful surprise in every mouthful. Who can resist the combination of chocolate and cranberries?
Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, simply use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. It’s a perfect way to ensure everyone at the table can enjoy this delicious pie!

Explore and find what resonates most with your taste buds, making each bite of this festive pie a unique experience. And if you’re in the mood for more delightful options, don’t forget to check out my other Christmas recipes for your holiday gatherings!

Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie Recipe FAQs

What type of cranberries should I use for the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie?
Absolutely! Fresh cranberries are preferred for the best flavor and tartness. If fresh cranberries are unavailable, you can use frozen cranberries directly without thawing them. Just remember to avoid dried cranberries, as they won’t provide the tartness you want in this pie.

How should I store Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie?
For short-term storage, you can cover the pie with plastic wrap or foil and leave it at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to keep it longer, wrap it tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, ensuring you enjoy its moist texture and flavor.

Can I freeze Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie?
Yes! You can freeze your pie for up to 3 months. Wrap it first in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave or heat the entire pie in a preheated oven at 350°F (176°C) for about 15-20 minutes.

What if my pie comes out dry?
If your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie turns out dry, it could be due to overbaking. Always begin checking for doneness around the 40-minute mark; the toothpick should come out with just a few moist crumbs. Also, using room temperature butter when mixing can help create a moist and tender texture.

Is Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie suitable for people with nut allergies?
Yes! This pie is highly customizable. You can easily omit the nuts for a nut-free version, and it will still be delicious. If someone has a specific nut allergy, be sure to use alternative flavors or ingredients that fit their dietary needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy this festive dessert!

Can I make Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap out the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. This simple substitution allows everyone to enjoy this delightful dessert, keeping the main essence and flavors intact.