Adaline Recipes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pie brings together the sweetness of apples and the bright tartness of cranberries for a perfectly balanced flavor. The filling is juicy and aromatic, while the crust adds a buttery, crisp texture. It’s a great way to elevate a traditional apple pie and adds a festive touch to your dessert table. Plus, it can be made ahead and enjoyed warm or cold.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 double pie crust (top and bottom)
5 cups apples, peeled and sliced
1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon butter

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the bottom crust and place it in a pie dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, cranberries, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
4. Mix until the fruit is well coated.
5. Pour the filling into the prepared crust and dot with butter.
6. Roll out the top crust and place it over the filling, sealing the edges. Cut slits in the top for steam to escape.
7. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips.
8. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling.
9. Let the pie cool for at least 1 hour before slicing to allow the filling to set.
10. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 8 servings.

Prep time: 20 minutes
Bake time: 45 to 55 minutes
Cooling time: 1 hour
Total time: About 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

You can customize apple cranberry pie in several ways. Use a lattice crust for a decorative top. Add orange zest for a citrusy note that pairs well with cranberries. Swap some of the apples for pears for a different flavor combination. You can also add chopped nuts for extra texture or a crumble topping instead of a top crust.

Storage/Reheating

Store the pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This pie can also be frozen for up to 2 months and reheated after thawing.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes, frozen cranberries work well. No need to thaw before using.

What apples are best for pie?

Firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape well.

How do I prevent a soggy crust?

Bake the pie on the lower oven rack and avoid overly juicy filling.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes, it can be made a day in advance.

Why is my filling runny?

It may need more thickener or more cooling time.

Can I use a store-bought crust?

Yes, store-bought crust is a convenient option.

Can I add spices?

Yes, cloves or allspice can add extra warmth.

How do I know when the pie is done?

The crust should be golden and the filling bubbling.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free crust and flour substitute.

What can I serve with this pie?

Ice cream or whipped cream pairs beautifully.

Conclusion

Apple cranberry pie is a flavorful and festive dessert that combines sweet and tart elements in a perfectly baked crust. With its rich filling and comforting aroma, it’s an excellent choice for holidays or everyday treats. Easy to customize and always satisfying, this pie is sure to become a favorite.

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