Bright bursts of cranberry and juicy notes of orange come together in this Braided Cranberry-Orange Pie to create a festive, jewel-toned centerpiece that’s as stunning to look at as it is delicious to eat. A golden crust, braided with care, wraps around a tart-sweet filling that celebrates refreshing winter flavors and makes every bite unforgettable. Whether you’re gathering with friends, serving family, or simply baking for the love of it, Braided Cranberry-Orange Pie brings a sense of occasion to any table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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Pie Crust:
- 1 package (14.1 oz) refrigerated pie crusts, softened as directed on package
Cranberry-Orange Filling:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces
Additional:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Coarse sugar, for sprinkling (optional)
How to Make Braided Cranberry-Orange Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out one of the pie crusts and gently fit it into your 9-inch pie plate, making sure to smooth out any air bubbles. Keep the second crust covered for now—you’ll use it soon for those eye-catching braids.
Step 2: Cook the Cranberry-Orange Filling
In a medium saucepan set over medium heat, combine the cranberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, orange zest, orange juice, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Stir frequently as the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens—this takes about 8 to 10 minutes and smells absolutely amazing as it cooks. Take the pan off the heat and let the filling cool slightly; this helps it set up nicely in the pie.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Pour the gorgeous cranberry-orange filling into your prepared pie crust. Dot the surface with small pieces of butter for extra richness and shine. Now, grab your second pie crust and roll it out. Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, slice the dough into long strips, then braid three strips at a time to create several braids. Drape the braided strips over the filling in a lattice pattern or any design you like, trimming and crimping the edges to fit snugly.
Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches
Brush the top of your braids with the beaten egg for an irresistible sheen, and, if you like, sprinkle on a little coarse sugar for sparkle and crunch. Set the pie on a baking sheet to catch any delightful bubbling, and slide it into the oven. Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the crust is gloriously golden and the filling is bubbling at the edges. If the edges are browning too quickly, tent them with foil to keep things just right.
Step 5: Cooling and Slicing
This part requires patience, but it’s worth it! Let the Braided Cranberry-Orange Pie cool completely before slicing—this ensures those fruity juices set up and every slice is picture-perfect. Now, get ready to serve up a showstopper!
How to Serve Braided Cranberry-Orange Pie
Garnishes
For dessert as beautiful as Braided Cranberry-Orange Pie, a finishing flourish makes all the difference. Try a delicate dusting of powdered sugar, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a dollop of pillowy whipped cream right before serving to highlight the vibrant filling and golden crust.
Side Dishes
Balance the tart-sweet flavors of Braided Cranberry-Orange Pie with light accompaniments. A crisp arugula salad with citrus vinaigrette or a platter of cheese and nuts creates a lovely contrast if you’re serving the pie as part of a holiday spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the pie into classic wedges and serve on bright, contrasting plates to let the scarlet filling pop. For a modern twist, cut the pie into bars or squares, and arrange them on a platter with fresh orange zest curls and sugared cranberries sprinkled around for a festive look.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Braided Cranberry-Orange Pie covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. The filling stays perfectly tart and the crust remains tender—just be sure to store it in an airtight container or wrap the pie plate with plastic to prevent it from drying out.
Freezing
If you want to save slices for later, Braided Cranberry-Orange Pie freezes beautifully. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or seal the whole cooled pie in a large freezer bag. It’ll keep well for up to three months—just thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To enjoy your pie just as fresh as day one, reheat slices in a 325°F (165°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This refreshes the crust’s crispness and brings the filling back to luscious life. If you prefer, you can microwave a slice for a quick treat, but the crust will be a little softer.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pie crust instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! A homemade crust gives the Braided Cranberry-Orange Pie an ultra-flaky, buttery touch. Just be sure to make enough dough for both the bottom and the braids on top.
Do I need to thaw frozen cranberries before cooking?
No need to thaw at all—add them frozen right to your saucepan. The frozen berries will cook down and burst just as beautifully, and they help cool the filling a bit before assembly.
How do I keep the braided crust from getting too brown?
If your braids are browning faster than the rest of the pie, simply tent the rim with foil about halfway through baking. This shields the edge, letting the crust finish baking evenly without over-browning.
Can I make Braided Cranberry-Orange Pie ahead of time?
Yes! The pie is delicious served at room temperature, so feel free to bake it the morning of your event or even the day before. The flavors meld even more after a few hours of cooling.
What’s the best way to slice the pie neatly?
For the cleanest slices, let Braided Cranberry-Orange Pie cool completely and use a sharp, serrated knife, wiping between cuts. A long, smooth cut ensures the filling doesn’t ooze and the braids stay intact.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to wow your guests with a dessert that’s as delicious as it is beautiful, Braided Cranberry-Orange Pie promises pure joy in every bite. Give this vibrant, festive treat a spot at your next gathering—it’s sure to spark smiles and be remembered long after the last crumb is gone!
