Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite dessert: cranberry custard pie! This pie has the perfect balance of tartness from fresh cranberries and a luscious, creamy custard that just melts in your mouth. I always whip it up during the holidays, and it never fails to impress my family and friends. The way the vibrant red cranberries peek through the golden custard is simply stunning. Trust me, you’ll want to savor each bite! It’s such a joy to make, and the best part is that it’s surprisingly easy to prepare. So, grab your ingredients and let’s dive into making this delightful cranberry custard pie together!
Ingredients List
1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
2 cups fresh cranberries, rinsed and drained
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
How to Prepare Cranberry Custard Pie
Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, let’s jump into bringing this beautiful cranberry custard pie to life! It’s a simple process, and I promise, you’ll be amazed at how quickly it all comes together.
Step-by-Step Instructions
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because you want your pie to bake evenly from the get-go!
While the oven heats up, place your pie crust in a pie dish. If you’re using a store-bought crust, it usually comes ready to go, but if you’re feeling adventurous and making your own, I applaud you!
In a mixing bowl, toss the fresh cranberries with the sugar until they’re nicely coated. This helps to release their juices while baking, giving you that wonderful tartness.
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt until it’s all combined and smooth. Oh, this mixture already smells divine!
Now, gently fold the cranberry mixture into the egg mixture. Be careful not to squish the cranberries too much; we want them to maintain that lovely shape!
Pour this beautiful filling into the pie crust, spreading it out evenly. You’ll see the cranberries peeking through, and it’s just a sight to behold!
Bake the pie in your preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the custard is set but slightly jiggly in the middle. It will firm up as it cools.
Once baked, let the pie cool completely before serving. This step is crucial for easy slicing—trust me, you don’t want a messy serve!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Deliciously tart and creamy flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Quick preparation time—perfect for busy holiday gatherings!
Stunning presentation with vibrant cranberries against the golden custard.
Versatile enough for any occasion, from Thanksgiving to summer picnics.
Easy to make, even for beginner bakers!
Tips for Success
To make your cranberry custard pie truly shine, here are a few handy tips! First, always use fresh cranberries for the best flavor—frozen ones can work, but they may be a bit mushier. Make sure your eggs and cream are at room temperature; it helps create a smoother custard. When pouring the filling into the crust, do it slowly to avoid spilling. Also, keep an eye on the baking time—every oven is different, so check for that slight jiggle in the center to know it’s perfectly set. Lastly, serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for that extra touch of indulgence!
Just a little heads up—nutritional information can vary quite a bit based on the ingredients and brands you use. While I’ve provided some typical values for this cranberry custard pie, they’re not set in stone. I always recommend estimating based on your specific choices to get a more accurate picture. So, if you’re counting calories or keeping an eye on sugar, feel free to adjust as needed! The joy of cooking lies in making it your own, after all!
FAQ About Cranberry Custard Pie
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Absolutely! You can use frozen cranberries for your cranberry custard pie. Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before mixing them with the sugar. This will help maintain that delightful tartness without making the custard too watery.
How should I store leftover pie?
To keep your cranberry custard pie fresh, store it in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It should last for about 3-4 days. Just be sure to let it cool completely before you store it to prevent condensation, which can make the crust soggy.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely make this pie ahead of time! It’s a great option for holiday gatherings. Just bake it, let it cool, and then refrigerate it. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before serving, or warm it slightly in the oven for a cozy treat!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving cranberry custard pie, I always recommend pairing it with a generous dollop of whipped cream. The light, airy cream complements the tartness of the cranberries beautifully! For an extra indulgent treat, a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side adds a lovely creamy contrast. You could even drizzle a little caramel sauce on top if you’re feeling adventurous! Each bite will be a delightful mix of flavors and textures that will have everyone coming back for more!
For more information on the health benefits of cranberries, check out this Healthline article.
I share easy, flavorful recipes that make home cooking simple, fun, and totally satisfying. Let's get in the kitchen and create something delicious together!
What do you think?
Share your thoughts, tips, or variations on this recipe!