Nantucket Christmas Cranberry Pie: The Ultimate Cranberry Pie Recipe
Introduction to Nantucket Christmas Cranberry Pie
Nantucket Christmas Cranberry Pie is a delightful dessert that combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the sweetness of sugar and the rich flavor of pecans. This unique pie is a perfect choice for gatherings during the holiday season or any occasion where you want to impress your friends and family with a deliciously homemade treat. It’s easy to prepare, making it suitable for bakers of all skill levels, especially those just starting out.
A Personal Story Behind My Nantucket Christmas Cranberry Pie Journey
Growing up, my family had a tradition of baking together during the holidays, and one of our favorite recipes was the Nantucket Christmas Cranberry Pie. I remember the wonderful aroma filling our home as the pie baked in the oven. This pie not only represents a delicious dessert but also holds memories of laughter, joy, and family bonding. Every time I make it, I feel that warm sense of nostalgia and love, reminding me of the importance of family and tradition.
What Makes This Nantucket Christmas Cranberry Pie Recipe Special?
What sets this Nantucket Christmas Cranberry Pie apart is its delightful combination of flavors and textures. The tart cranberries provide a refreshing contrast to the sweet, buttery topping, enhanced by the crunch of pecans. The addition of almond extract adds a subtle nutty flavor that elevates the pie to a whole new level. Plus, it’s a visually stunning dessert that can be served warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
The Full Nantucket Christmas Cranberry Pie Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (toasted for extra crunch if desired)
- 3/4 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix cranberries, 1/2 cup sugar, and chopped pecans. Pour this mixture into a generously buttered 10-inch pie plate. Tip: Make sure to coat the pie plate well to prevent sticking.
- Cream together softened butter and 1 cup sugar in a mixing bowl until smooth.
- Add eggs and almond extract to the butter-sugar mix and beat until fluffy. Tip: Use room temperature eggs for better incorporation.
- Gradually add flour to the wet ingredients and mix until well combined.
- Spread the thick batter over the cranberry mixture in the pie plate. You can use a small cookie scoop to dollop spoonfuls of the batter on top of the pie.
- Bake the pie for 40-50 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the topping comes out clean. Tip: Keep an eye on the pie during the last 10 minutes to prevent over-browning.
- Serve the pie warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. Tip: A sprinkle of additional toasted pecans on top enhances the presentation.
- Enjoy your delicious Cranberry Pecan Pie with Almond Topping!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Nantucket Christmas Cranberry Pie
The Nantucket Christmas Cranberry Pie is best served warm, topped with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a delightful twist, you can add a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor. If you want to experiment, consider adding other fruits like apples or pears to the cranberry mixture for a different taste profile. You can also try substituting the pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nantucket Christmas Cranberry Pie
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen cranberries! Just make sure to thaw and drain them before using in the recipe for best results.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it in the oven before serving to enjoy it warm.
Is this pie suitable for freezing?
Yes, this pie can be frozen. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating and serving.
What can I serve with this pie?
Pair it with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or even a scoop of yogurt for a delicious contrast of flavors.
Nantucket Christmas Cranberry Pie
Equipment
- Oven Preheat to 350°F (175°C)
- Mixing bowl For combining ingredients.
- Pie Plate 10-inch, butter generously.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 0.5 cup chopped pecans toasted for extra crunch if desired
- 0.75 cup butter softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix cranberries, 1/2 cup sugar, and chopped pecans. Pour this mixture into a generously buttered 10-inch pie plate.
- Cream together softened butter and 1 cup sugar in a mixing bowl until smooth.
- Add eggs and almond extract to the butter-sugar mix and beat until fluffy.
- Gradually add flour to the wet ingredients and mix until well combined.
- Spread the thick batter over the cranberry mixture in the pie plate.
- Bake the pie for 40-50 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the topping comes out clean.
- Serve the pie warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.