There is something incredibly heartwarming about a perfectly baked Cranberry Pie with Flaky Crust and Orange-Infused Filling Recipe that fills your kitchen with cozy, citrusy aromas while offering a delightful balance of tart and sweet flavors. This pie is a celebration of fresh cranberries nestled in a tender, buttery crust with just the right hint of orange zest, making it the ideal dessert for gatherings or simply indulging yourself on a crisp day. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will earn a permanent spot among your all-time favorites.
Cranberry Pie with Flaky Crust and Orange-Infused Filling Recipe: Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Great recipes start with simple, thoughtfully chosen ingredients that work harmoniously to create a dish that is both comforting and vibrant. Each component in this recipe contributes to texture, flavor, or color in a deliciously meaningful way.
- All-purpose flour: The backbone of the pie crust, giving it structure and a tender crumb.
- Granulated sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to balance the natural tartness of the cranberries and enhance the crust’s flavor.
- Kosher salt: Elevates all the flavors, bringing out the best in both crust and filling.
- Unsalted butter: Cold and cubed, it creates those flaky layers we all adore in the crust.
- Vegetable shortening: Helps the crust stay flaky and tender while adding structure.
- Ice water: Keeps the dough cold and brings it together without melting the fats.
- Fresh or frozen cranberries: The star ingredient; their bright tartness is key to the filling’s zing.
- Freshly squeezed orange juice: Infuses the filling with a citrus brightness that complements the cranberries perfectly.
- Cornstarch: Acts as a thickener, ensuring the filling sets beautifully without being runny.
- Pure vanilla extract: Adds a layer of warm, sweet aroma that rounds out the filling.
- Large egg: Beaten, it’s for brushing the crust to give it a golden, glossy finish.
- Coarse sugar (optional): Sprinkled on top for a delightful crunch and sparkle.
How to Make Cranberry Pie with Flaky Crust and Orange-Infused Filling Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Pie Dough
Start by whisking together the flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. This dry mix ensures an even distribution of flavors in the crust. Then, add the cold, cubed butter and shortening and use a pastry cutter or forks to cut them into the flour until you achieve pea-sized bits. This is crucial for that coveted flakiness in your crust.
Step 2: Bringing the Dough Together
Add ice water carefully—starting with two tablespoons and then adding more one by one—until the dough feels crumbly but starts holding together. Use your hands gently to knead the dough just enough so it forms a cohesive ball. Overworking it will develop gluten, making the crust tough.
Step 3: Chilling the Dough
Divide the dough into two discs, wrap each tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least an hour. Chilling helps the fats solidify again, making the dough easier to roll and contributing to the flaky texture during baking.
Step 4: Rolling and Shaping the Crust
On a lightly floured surface, roll one disc into a 12-inch circle and fit it into your pie dish. Trim any excess edges and fold the rim under, crimping it gently with your fingers for a lovely decorative edge. Pop this crust back into the fridge while you prepare the topping crust or cutout shapes from the second dough disc.
Step 5: Preparing the Orange-Infused Cranberry Filling
In a food processor, pulse together fresh or frozen cranberries, granulated sugar, orange juice, cornstarch, and salt until the cranberries are nicely chopped but still have some texture. Transfer this mixture into a pot and cook over medium heat, stirring, until it thickens and starts to simmer. Take it off the heat and stir in the vanilla extract for that extra aromatic layer.
Step 6: Assembling and Baking the Pie
Pour your luscious filling into the chilled bottom crust. Top with your cutout shapes or a lattice crust. Brush the entire top crust with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar to add sparkle and a slight crunch. Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for about 30 to 40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling bubbles enticingly.
Step 7: Cooling the Pie
Allow your pie to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. This resting period lets the filling set, making each slice neat and brimming with flavor.
How to Serve Cranberry Pie with Flaky Crust and Orange-Infused Filling Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your pie slices with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic touch. A sprinkle of orange zest on top adds a fresh burst of citrus aroma that perfectly complements the orange-infused filling.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with a light side of mixed greens or a simple cheese board if serving at a gathering, balancing the sweetness of the pie with savory or refreshing elements.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual mini cranberry pies in ramekins for a charming presentation at a party. Alternatively, drizzle a bit of melted chocolate or caramel sauce over your pie slices for an elevated dessert experience that will impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover pie tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the fridge. The pie maintains its flavor and texture well for up to 4 days, making it an ideal treat to enjoy the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze the unbaked pie (without the egg wash and sugar topping) by wrapping it securely in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and then proceed with egg wash and topping before baking.
Reheating
To warm your leftovers, place the pie slice on a baking sheet and heat in a 350°F oven for 15 minutes. This method brings back the flaky texture while reheating the filling without drying it out.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones. Just ensure they are thawed slightly to be easier to pulse in the food processor and incorporated into the filling.
Is it possible to make the crust without shortening?
While shortening contributes to flakiness, you can substitute it with all butter if you prefer. Keep the butter cold and maybe reduce the water slightly so the dough is not too soft.
How do I prevent the crust edges from burning?
If your crust edges brown too quickly during baking, shield them with foil or a pie crust shield after the first 20 minutes. This protects the crust while allowing the filling to finish baking properly.
Can I make this pie vegan-friendly?
Yes! Replace butter and shortening with plant-based alternatives, and swap the egg wash for a simple mixture of plant milk and maple syrup or agave nectar for browning the crust.
What is the best way to get a glossy pie crust?
The beaten egg wash before baking is key for that shiny, golden crust. Make sure to brush evenly and use a light hand for the best appearance without sogginess.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about making and sharing this Cranberry Pie with Flaky Crust and Orange-Infused Filling Recipe. The flavors meld beautifully in a way that feels both festive and comforting, perfect for holidays or any time you want to impress with a homemade dessert. Go ahead and give it a try—you might find it becoming your new signature pie that everyone asks for again and again.
