As the air turns crisp and leaves begin to crunch beneath our feet, there’s nothing quite like the cozy aroma of a baking pie wafting through the kitchen. When my family gathers around the table, this Tasty Cranberry Pecan Pie always steals the show, bringing with it a delightful balance of flavors that could make anyone swoon. The sweet, buttery notes of a classic pecan pie mingle perfectly with the bright tartness of cranberries, creating a delightful taste sensation that feels like a warm hug on a chilly fall evening.
This pie isn’t just about taste; it’s a feast for the eyes too, with vibrant bursts of crimson cranberries peeking through its glossy top. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving or simply looking to impress at a potluck, this dessert is as versatile as it is delicious. Get ready to surprise your friends and family with a treat that looks fancy yet is surprisingly easy to whip up, making it a comforting classic you’ll want to return to year after year. Join me in creating this sweet-tart masterpiece that tastes like a celebration in every bite!
Why is Cranberry Pecan Pie a Must-Try?
Delightful flavor combination: The unique blend of tangy cranberries and sweet pecans creates a truly memorable dessert experience.
Visually stunning: With its vibrant color and glossy finish, this pie is sure to impress your guests and elevate any holiday table setting.
Breeze to make: Despite its elegant appearance, you’ll find that the process is simple enough for any home cook to master.
Versatile options: Easily adapt this delightful recipe using fresh or frozen cranberries, and swap pecans with your favorite nuts if desired.
Perfect for gatherings: This pie has crowd appeal and is sure to become a beloved staple at your family celebrations, making it a holiday essential.
Cranberry Pecan Pie Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make this delightful dessert!
For the Crust
- Shortening – Adds flakiness to the crust; substitute with unsalted butter for a richer flavor.
- Salt – Enhances overall flavor; no substitutes necessary.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for the crust; cake flour can be used for a tender texture.
- Hot Water – Binds ingredients; use cold water if necessary for a cooler dough.
- Buttermilk – Adds tenderness to the crust; substitute with milk mixed with a splash of vinegar.
For the Filling
- Sugar – Sweetens the filling; brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances sweetness and flavor; use pure vanilla for the best results.
- Pecans – Gives a crunchy texture and nuttiness; can replace with walnuts for a different flavor.
- Large Eggs – Provides structure to the filling; use an equivalent amount of egg substitute for a vegan option.
- Butter – Adds richness to the filling; cream cheese can be used for a tangy depth.
- Corn Syrup – Acts as a sweetener and thickener; substitute with honey or maple syrup if desired.
- Cranberries – Provides tartness and color; both fresh or frozen work beautifully.
Optional Topping
- Sweetened Whipped Cream – Serves as a topping for added sweetness; whipped coconut cream can be used for a non-dairy option.
Now you’re all set to create your very own Cranberry Pecan Pie! Enjoy the process and the sweet-tart flavors that will fill your kitchen!
How to Make Cranberry Pecan Pie
Prepare the Crust: In a large mixing bowl, beat together shortening and buttermilk until smooth. Mix in hot water, and combine with flour and salt until a shaggy dough forms. Remember to chill the dough for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results!
Make the Filling: Whisk together the eggs, corn syrup, sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl until smooth. Gently fold in the pecans and cranberries, ensuring an even distribution of flavors.
Roll and Shape the Dough: Lightly flour your surface and roll the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Carefully transfer it to a pie plate, crimp the edges to seal, and create a lovely presentation.
Pre-bake the Crust: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Once hot, place the crust in the oven and bake for 10 minutes. This step helps prevent sogginess in the final pie.
Fill and Bake: Pour the delicious filling into the pre-baked crust. Lower the oven temperature to 350°F and bake for 35-40 minutes, until the filling is slightly jiggly in the center—this indicates it’s perfectly set.
Cool: Patience is key! Allow the pie to cool for 2-3 hours at room temperature before serving. This waiting period helps the filling firm up and makes slicing easier.
Optional: Serve with a dollop of sweetened whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Tasty Cranberry Pecan Pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the crust and filling up to 24 hours in advance, making your holiday baking much simpler. To do this, prepare the crust as instructed, then wrap it tightly and refrigerate. For the filling, mix the eggs, sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, and vanilla, folding in the cranberries and pecans; store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, roll out the chilled dough and pre-bake the crust as detailed, then pour in the filling and bake as instructed. This way, you can enjoy a stunning dessert without the last-minute rush!
Storage Tips for Cranberry Pecan Pie
- Room Temperature: Keep the pie at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’re planning to serve it after a couple of days, refrigeration is a better option.
- Fridge: Store any leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Cover the pie loosely with foil or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
- Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
- Reheating: To enjoy a warm slice, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, letting the sweet-tart flavors of the cranberry pecan pie come back to life.
What to Serve with Cranberry Pecan Pie?
Savor the sweet-tart flavors of this delightful pie by pairing it with the perfect accompaniments that enhance its charm.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream balances the pie’s richness and adds a delightful contrast to its flavors.
Sweetened Whipped Cream: A generous dollop of whipped cream offers an extra sweetness that complements the tart cranberries beautifully.
Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or spiced tea contrasts the sweetness and provides a comforting warmth as you indulge in dessert.
Cheese Platter: Serve an assortment of soft cheeses alongside; their creaminess pairs intriguingly with the crunchy pecans and tart cranberries.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce over individual slices adds a touch of indulgence that intensifies the pie’s natural sweetness.
Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing fruit salad brings brightness to the table and balances the richness of the pie with its zesty flavors.
Elevate your dessert experience by pairing these delightful options with your Cranberry Pecan Pie. Each choice adds a unique texture and flavor, ensuring a well-rounded and unforgettable meal!
Cranberry Pecan Pie Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this pie your own with these delightful twists!
Nutty Swap: Replace pecans with walnuts or hazelnuts for a unique nutty flavor that adds depth to each bite.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg to the filling for a warm, aromatic note that complements the cranberries beautifully.
Fruity Twist: Mix in chopped apples or pears with the cranberries for extra sweetness and a delightful texture variation in your pie.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate on top of the cooled pie for a decadent touch that balances out the tart cranberries.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pie crust made with almond or coconut flour to cater to your gluten-sensitive friends and family without compromising flavor.
Maple Sweetness: Swap the corn syrup for pure maple syrup for a deeper, earthier sweetness that enhances the pie’s overall warmth.
Coconut Cream: Top with whipped coconut cream instead of regular whipped cream for a tropical twist and a dairy-free option that everyone can enjoy.
Heat it Up: Sprinkle a few red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper in the filling to add a surprising kick that beautifully contrasts with the sweet-tart flavor.
Expert Tips for Cranberry Pecan Pie
- Chill the Dough: Properly chilling the dough for at least 4 hours prevents shrinkage while baking, ensuring a perfectly shaped crust for your cranberry pecan pie.
- Limit Mixing Time: Once the eggs are added to the filling, mix gently to avoid incorporating too much air, which can lead to cracks in the pie once baked.
- Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your pie in the last few minutes of baking; if the pecans brown too quickly, cover loosely with foil to maintain a golden brown appearance.
- Cool Completely: Allowing the pie to cool for 2-3 hours at room temperature is key; cutting too soon may result in a runny filling and less-than-ideal presentation.
- Fresh or Frozen: Both fresh and frozen cranberries work beautifully in this recipe; just ensure to drain and thaw frozen cranberries to avoid excess moisture in the pie.
Cranberry Pecan Pie Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best cranberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting cranberries, look for ones that are firm, plump, and deep red in color. Avoid cranberries with dark spots or blemishes, as these may indicate overripeness. Fresh cranberries should be bright and fresh, while frozen cranberries should be thawed and drained of excess moisture before use.
How should I store my leftover Cranberry Pecan Pie?
To enjoy your delicious pie at its best, keep it at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer freshness, store any leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure to cover it loosely with foil or plastic wrap to keep it from drying out, allowing the sweet-tart flavors to linger.
Can I freeze Cranberry Pecan Pie and how?
Certainly! To freeze your pie, first allow it to cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, ensuring it’s airtight. You can freeze the pie for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and serve it at room temperature or reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
What should I do if my pie filling is runny?
If you find that your pie filling is a bit runny, it could be due to overmixing the filling after adding the eggs or not allowing the pie to cool long enough. To resolve this issue, make sure to mix the filling gently and avoid overmixing. After baking, giving the pie adequate time to cool (about 2-3 hours) will help the filling set up properly. For future bakes, double-check your oven temperature and perhaps bake the pie slightly longer if needed.
Can I make this pie vegan-friendly?
Very! To create a vegan version of this Cranberry Pecan Pie, swap the large eggs for a flaxseed egg or a commercial egg replacer. Use vegan buttermilk by mixing plant-based milk with a splash of vinegar, and replace regular butter with a vegan alternative, like coconut oil or margarine. All these substitutions will allow you to enjoy the pie without losing any of its delightful flavors.
Are there any allergies I should be cautious of?
Indeed! This recipe contains common allergens such as nuts (pecans) and gluten (all-purpose flour). For those with nut allergies, consider substituting pecans with seeds or sunflower seeds for added crunch. If you need a gluten-free option, you can use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy this delightful treat!
Cranberry Pecan Pie: Sweet-Tart Delight for Your Holiday Table
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Crust: In a large mixing bowl, beat together shortening and buttermilk until smooth. Mix in hot water, and combine with flour and salt until a shaggy dough forms. Chill the dough for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Make the Filling: Whisk together the eggs, corn syrup, sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl until smooth. Gently fold in the pecans and cranberries.
- Roll and Shape the Dough: Lightly flour your surface and roll the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Transfer it to a pie plate and crimp the edges.
- Pre-bake the Crust: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Bake the crust for 10 minutes to prevent sogginess.
- Fill and Bake: Pour the filling into the pre-baked crust. Lower the oven temperature to 350°F and bake for 35-40 minutes until the filling is slightly jiggly.
- Cool: Allow the pie to cool for 2-3 hours at room temperature before serving.