Name: Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie That Will Delight Your Guests
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh or frozen cranberries (frozen can be used without thawing); 1/2 cup granulated sugar (sweetens the cranberries); 1 cup chopped pecans or almonds (adds crunch; can substitute with any favorite nuts); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened); 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon almond or vanilla extract (elevates flavor); 1 cup all-purpose flour (for gluten-free, use a 1:1 blend); 1/4 teaspoon salt (enhances flavor)

As the holidays approach, a kitchen filled with tantalizing aromas can transport us back to cherished memories. One of my all-time favorites that perfectly encapsulates this season is the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie. With a luscious cranberry filling paired harmoniously with crunchy pecans, every bite strikes the right balance of sweet and tart. This delightful dessert not only makes a stunning centerpiece for your festive gatherings but is also surprisingly simple to whip up. Plus, it’s adaptable for gluten-free diets, ensuring everyone can delight in its deliciousness. Imagine serving a warm slice, topped with vanilla ice cream, as your loved ones gather around, sharing stories and laughter. Are you curious about how to create this comforting holiday treasure? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Is Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie So Special?

Festive Flavors: The balance of tart cranberries and crunchy pecans makes every slice a celebration of holiday taste.

Simplicity: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this stunning dessert that looks as good as it tastes.

Versatile Approach: Adapt the pie easily for gluten-free diets using a simple flour swap, so no one misses out on this seasonal delight!

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This pie pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream, making it the perfect finish to any festive meal.

Meal Prep Wonder: It stores well and can even be frozen, allowing you to make this showstopper ahead of time!

Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need to create this festive treat!

For the Filling

Fresh or Frozen Cranberries – Provides that signature tartness and vibrant flavor; frozen cranberries can be used without thawing for the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the pie and balances the tartness of cranberries, enhancing the overall flavor.
Pecans or Almonds – Adds delightful crunch and depth to the pie; feel free to substitute with your favorite nuts or omit entirely.

For the Batter

Unsalted Butter – Contributes richness and moisture to the dessert; ensure it’s softened for easier mixing.
Eggs – Provides structure and sets the pie, creating a cohesive texture.
Almond or Vanilla Extract – Elevates the flavor profile; any flavor extract can work, but these are highly recommended.
All-Purpose Flour – Forms the cake layer; for gluten-free versions, simply use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the pie, ensuring a well-rounded taste.

Make this Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie your go-to festive dessert and watch it bring joy to your holiday gatherings!

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 up, butter a 9-inch pie plate thoroughly, making sure to cover the base and sides—this will prevent sticking later. Set the prepared pie plate aside, ready for the delicious filling that’s coming next.

Step 2: Assemble the Filling
Pour the fresh or frozen cranberries directly into the bottom of your prepared pie plate. Then, sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the cranberries, creating a delightful crunch layer. To balance the tartness, add 1/2 cup of granulated sugar on top, ensuring all the ingredients are nicely covered and ready for the batter.

Step 3: Mix the Batter
In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. The color will lighten as the ingredients blend together, creating a luscious base for the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie.

Step 4: Add the Flavors
Gradually incorporate the almond or vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mixture. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until the batter is fluffy and well combined. This step adds moisture and richness, ensuring each slice of pie will be both delightful and satisfying.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
Incorporate the all-purpose flour and salt into the batter gradually. Mix just until everything is combined; the texture will be slightly sticky but thick. Avoid over-mixing—this helps keep the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie light and tender.

Step 6: Spread the Batter
Using a spatula, evenly spread the prepared batter over the cranberry and pecan layer in the pie plate. Make sure to cover the entire surface, ensuring that each cranberry receives some of that delicious batter. The even layer will help create the perfect topping during baking.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it bakes; it’s done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs clinging to it. This slight moisture indicates the ideal texture of your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie.

Step 8: Serve Warm
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before slicing. This pie is best enjoyed warm and can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped topping for a festive treat that beautifully complements the tart cranberry filling.

Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine by personalizing this delightful pie recipe to match your taste buds!

Nut-Free: Omit all nuts for a smooth texture. This makes the pie soft and easier to enjoy, especially for those with allergies.
Citrus Twist: Add the zest of one orange or lemon to the batter. It brightens the flavors and offers a refreshing contrast to the tart cranberries.
Spiced Up: Sprinkle in a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter for a warm, fragrant twist. This subtle addition transforms your pie into an aromatic holiday treat.
Chocolate Delight: Fold in some mini chocolate chips to the batter for a decadent, dessert-like twist. The chocolate complements the tartness of the cranberries beautifully, creating a rich flavor.
Maple Sweetness: Replace half of the granulated sugar with maple syrup for a unique, earthy sweetness. It lends a cozy fall vibe that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.
Berry Boost: Mix in some blueberries or raspberries with the cranberries. This adds a beautiful color contrast and enhances the berry flavors for a fruity explosion.
Gluten-Free Gem: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. This adaptation ensures that everyone can indulge in this festive delight without worry!
Extra Crunchy Topping: Top the batter with additional chopped nuts or a crumb topping before baking for added texture and an exciting crunch! A sprinkle of oats can elevate the topping even further.

With these variations, you can make your Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie uniquely yours—whether you prefer to explore different flavors, kick up the sweetness, or provide dietary options. Happy baking!

Expert Tips for Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie

Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor; if using frozen, remember to bake a few extra minutes to ensure they soften properly.
Mix Carefully: Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie light and tender; just mix until everything is combined.
Check Doneness: Start checking for doneness 5 minutes before the baking time is up; the pie should have a moist texture, with crumbs, not wet batter.
Serve Warm: For the best flavor experience, serve the pie warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which enhances its festive appeal.
Adapt and Enjoy: Don’t hesitate to substitute pecans with walnuts or adjust the cranberries for a sweeter or tarter pie based on your preference!

What to Serve with Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie

This festive dessert brings joy to any gathering, and it’s delightful to enhance your meal with complementary treats and drinks.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The smooth, cold ice cream pairs perfectly with the warm pie, balancing the tartness with sweetness.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream adds a luxurious touch, enhancing each bite of cranberry goodness.
Spiced Apple Cider: A warm cup of spiced apple cider complements the pie’s flavors, infusing a cozy vibe during chilly holidays.
Savory Roasted Chicken: The comforting, savory notes of roasted chicken provide a wonderful contrast to the sweet, tart pie, enhancing the meal’s balance.
Green Salad with Walnuts: A fresh salad with crispy greens and crunchy walnuts adds a refreshing crunch, seamlessly blending with the pie.
Gingerbread Cookies: Delightfully spiced gingerbread cookies can enhance the holiday spirit and offer a fun, festive texture alongside the pie.
Mulled Wine: The rich spices in mulled wine create a warm, festive atmosphere that beautifully pairs with the pie’s tart notes.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: For a cozy drink option, a pumpkin spice latte brings a holiday flair and complements the pie’s tartness with creamy sweetness.
Chocolate Mousse: For those looking for a richer dessert pairing, a small serving of chocolate mousse can provide a luxurious contrast to the cranberry flavors.

Storage Tips for Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie

Room Temperature: Store the pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. Ensure it’s away from direct sunlight to maintain freshness.

Fridge: If you plan to keep it for longer, refrigerate the pie for up to 5 days in an airtight container. This will keep the Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie moist and delicious.

Freezer: For extended storage, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. This makes it easy to enjoy later!

Reheating: To serve, thaw the pie in the fridge overnight. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (176°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, and enjoy!

Make Ahead Options

These Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling (cranberries, pecans, and sugar) up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine the ingredients and refrigerate them in an airtight container. The batter can also be mixed ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To ensure it stays fresh, store it covered to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, just spread the batter over the prepped filling and bake as directed. This way, you can save time on busy days while still enjoying the delightful, festive taste of cranberry pie.

Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie Recipe FAQs

What type of cranberries should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using fresh cranberries. If you’re in a pinch, frozen cranberries can also work—just toss them in without thawing. Avoid using dried cranberries, as they won’t provide the right texture or tartness needed for this Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie.

How should I store leftover Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie?
You can keep your pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days to enjoy its fresh flavor. If you want to extend its life, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Just be sure to keep it away from sunlight to maintain its quality!

Can I freeze Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie?
Definitely! To freeze, wrap your pie tightly in plastic wrap, then cover it with aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, and then reheat it in the oven at 350°F (176°C) for about 10-15 minutes to warm through.

What should I do if my cranberry pie is too dry?
If the pie turns out dry, it may have been overbaked. For future reference, start checking for doneness about 5 minutes before the recommended time. The pie should be moist, and a toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs, not completely dry.

Are there any dietary considerations for Nantucket Holiday Cranberry Pie?
Very! This pie can be made gluten-free by swapping the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Also, if you have nut allergies, you can either omit the nuts altogether or substitute them with seeds like sunflower seeds for that added crunch without the allergy risk. Enjoy it without worry!