As I rummaged through my pantry, I stumbled upon a bag of vibrant cranberries, and a sweet idea blossomed. This Cranberry Custard Pie elegantly marries creamy custard and tart cranberries with a bright hint of orange, making it the ultimate holiday dessert. Not only is it a visual showstopper, but it also offers the delightful perk of being make-ahead, allowing you to impress your guests without the last-minute hassle. The moment you slice through the smooth custard, revealing those jewel-toned cranberries, you’ll understand why this pie is a seasonal gem. Ready to elevate your dessert game this holiday season? What unique twist will you bring to your pie?
What Makes This Pie a Must-Try?
Creamy Indulgence: The velvety custard filling envelops the tart cranberries, creating a heavenly balance of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Festive Flair: With its jewel-toned cranberries and zesty orange notes, this pie is a striking centerpiece for any holiday table.
Make-Ahead Magic: Prep it ahead of time to ease your holiday stress; simply chill and serve when ready!
Versatile Base: Feel free to switch things up! Substitute cranberries for raspberries for a mixed berry surprise, or top with whipped cream for added elegance.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Family and friends will be raving about this pie long after the plates are cleared. Want more delicious options? Don’t miss our Oatmeal Cream Pies and Pumpkin Pie Protein recipes to complete your dessert spread!
Cranberry Custard Pie Ingredients
• Get ready to create this festive holiday treat!
For the Crust
- Refrigerated Pie Crust – Use store-bought or homemade for convenience and flavor.
For the Filling
- Cranberries (4 cups | 480 g | 17 oz) – The star ingredient, adding a tart punch; choose fresh or frozen.
- Orange Juice (1 cup | 240 ml) – Freshly squeezed brings out the citrus zing that brightens the pie.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk (1 can | 14 oz | 400 g) – This creamy ingredient sweetens and thickens the filling; coconut condensed milk works for a dairy-free twist.
- Egg Yolks (6 large) – Essential for richness; let them reach room temperature for the best mixing.
- Orange Zest (1 tbsp) – Elevate the pie’s freshness with aromatic zest; two oranges typically yield the right amount.
This Cranberry Custard Pie is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors, perfectly crafted for your holiday gatherings!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Custard Pie
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). A warm oven is crucial for achieving a perfectly baked cranberry custard pie. Let it warm up while you prepare your pie crust, ensuring that the custard filling sets beautifully in the oven later.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
Roll out your refrigerated pie crust on a floured surface until it’s about 1/8-inch thick. Gently transfer the crust to a 9-inch pie pan, carefully pressing it into the edges. Trim any excess dough and flute the edges to create a lovely finish.
Step 3: Par-bake Crust
Line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans to prevent bubbling. Position it in the preheated oven and par-bake for 20 minutes until lightly golden. Once done, remove it from the oven and discard the parchment and weights, allowing the crust to cool slightly.
Step 4: Cook Cranberries
In a medium saucepan, combine 4 cups of cranberries with 1 cup of orange juice over medium heat. Stir occasionally and cook for 4-5 minutes, until the cranberries burst and soften. The vibrant color and aroma will fill your kitchen as the tartness begins to bloom.
Step 5: Strain Puree
Once the cranberries are cooked, transfer the mixture to a blender. Blend until smooth, then strain the puree through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, ensuring you collect about 2 cups of cranberry puree. This step is essential for a velvety smooth cranberry custard pie filling.
Step 6: Mix Custard Filling
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together one can of sweetened condensed milk, the six large egg yolks, the cranberry puree, and 1 tablespoon of orange zest. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and fully combined, creating the creamy base for your delicious cranberry custard pie.
Step 7: Bake the Pie
Pour the custard filling into the cooled pie crust, using a spatula to distribute it evenly. Bake in the oven for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the center is slightly jiggly but set; it should have a beautiful golden hue on top when it’s ready.
Step 8: Cool and Refrigerate
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for about 2 hours. After cooling, place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully in your cranberry custard pie.
Step 9: Decorate (Optional)
Before serving, add a touch of elegance by garnishing the pie with dollops of whipped cream, fresh cranberries, or colorful sprinkles. This final touch not only enhances presentation but also elevates the festive spirit of your cranberry custard pie, making it a show-stopping dessert.
Make Ahead Options
These Cranberry Custard Pies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can prepare the crust and cranberry puree up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring a smooth pie assembly when you’re ready to bake. Simply par-bake the crust as directed and store it at room temperature, covered to prevent drying out. The cranberry mixture can be made, strained, and then refrigerated until needed. When it’s time to serve, whisk together the custard filling and pour it into the chilled crust, then bake as instructed. This way, you’ll enjoy a delightful, creamy dessert with minimal last-minute effort, allowing you to focus on the festivities!
What to Serve with Cranberry Custard Pie
As you anticipate the delightful slice of heaven that is waiting for you, consider these delicious accompaniments to create a well-rounded holiday feast.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the smooth custard, enhancing each creamy bite.
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Citrus Salad: Brighten your dessert table with a zesty citrus salad. The fresh oranges and grapefruits provide a refreshing counterpoint to the rich pie.
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Spiced Apple Cider: Serve warm spiced apple cider alongside. Its cozy, aromatic warmth complements the tartness of the cranberries beautifully.
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Chocolate Ganache Drizzle: A drizzle of dark chocolate ganache on top can elevate the sweetness and add a luxurious touch to this festive dessert.
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Ginger Snap Cookies: Crunchy ginger snap cookies offer an inviting texture contrast and spicy notes that pair perfectly with the cranberry custard pie.
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Hot Coffee or Tea: Piping hot coffee or herbal tea pairs well, providing a soothing finish to your dessert experience and balancing the pie’s sweetness.
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Almond Biscotti: For a delightful crunch, serve with almond biscotti. The nutty flavor enhances the holiday spirit of the meal and offers a perfect dunking option for the pie.
How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Custard Pie
Fridge: Store your cranberry custard pie wrapped in plastic wrap or airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps it fresh while allowing the flavors to deepen.
Freezer: If you want to enjoy the pie later, freeze it for up to 3 months. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn.
Reheating: To serve, thaw the pie in the fridge overnight and enjoy it chilled. If you prefer, warm individual slices in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds for a cozy touch.
Serving Tip: Enhancing your cranberry custard pie with fresh whipped cream or a sprinkle of orange zest just before serving can take its deliciousness to another level!
Expert Tips for Cranberry Custard Pie
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Strain Thoroughly: Make sure to strain the cranberry puree well for a smooth filling. This step is key to achieving that luxurious custard texture.
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Check Crust Edges: If the edges of the pie crust brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil. This prevents burning while the filling sets perfectly.
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Cool Before Refrigerating: Let the pie cool at room temperature for about 2 hours before refrigerating. This keeps excess moisture from accumulating and ruining the texture of the custard.
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your egg yolks are at room temperature for a more uniform mix. This helps the custard fill smooth and creamy in your cranberry custard pie.
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Top Creatively: Feel free to add a creative touch with toppings! Fresh whipped cream or a sprinkle of zest can enhance both flavor and presentation, making your pie a holiday hit.
Cranberry Custard Pie Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to unleash your creativity and tailor this recipe to your family’s likes and dietary needs!
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Berries Blend: Substitute half the cranberries with raspberries for a delightful mixed berry twist. The fusion of flavors adds a touch of surprise and a softer sweetness.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Swap sweetened condensed milk with coconut condensed milk to create a creamy yet dairy-free version. Enjoy the tropical flavor it brings while keeping the rich texture intact.
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Rich Chocolate: Drizzle your pie with a layer of dark chocolate ganache before serving. The combination of chocolate and cranberries is a match made in dessert heaven—perfect for indulgent moments!
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Zesty Lemon Burst: Add a tablespoon of lemon juice to the cranberry filling for an extra zing. This citrus lift brightens up the flavors and complements the tartness of the cranberries beautifully.
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Nutty Crunch: Top with toasted walnuts or pecans before baking for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy filling. It adds a comforting texture that your guests will love.
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Spiced Infusion: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or ginger to the custard filling for a warm and cozy note. These spices evoke feelings of nostalgia and enhance the holiday spirit.
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Garnish Galore: Instead of whipped cream, try topping your pie with a dollop of mascarpone or crème fraîche. Their tangy richness makes a delightful companion to the pie’s sweet tartness.
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Warm Serve Option: For a cozy dessert experience, serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The melting ice cream mingles with the warm custard for a heavenly treat.
For more sweet ideas to round out your holiday dessert spread, consider trying our Rice Krispie Treat or giving into the seasonal cravings with our Pumpkin Pie Protein treats!
Cranberry Custard Pie Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe cranberries for my pie?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose cranberries that are firm and bright in color. Avoid any with dark spots or wrinkles, as these may be overripe. Fresh cranberries should be plump and vibrant, while frozen ones should be free of ice crystals.
How should I store leftover cranberry custard pie?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator, wrapped in plastic wrap or placed in an airtight container, for up to 4 days. This keeps your pie fresh and allows the flavors to blend beautifully, making each slice a delight.
Can I freeze cranberry custard pie?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze your cranberry custard pie! First, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the pie in the refrigerator overnight, and serve it chilled.
What should I do if the pie cracks while baking?
Very occasionally, you might see cracks on the surface of your pie. This can happen if the custard is overcooked or if the oven temperature is too high. To avoid this, keep a close eye on the pie during the last 10 minutes of baking. If you see any cracks beginning to form, consider covering the edges with aluminum foil as well, which helps to promote even baking.
Can pets eat cranberry custard pie?
While cranberries are safe for dogs in moderation, the other ingredients in this pie—like sugar and eggs—may not be ideal for your furry friends. It’s best to keep this delightful treat for human enjoyment only. Always consult your vet if you’re unsure about food safety for pets.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the sweetened condensed milk?
Absolutely! For a dairy-free version of your cranberry custard pie, simply substitute the sweetened condensed milk with coconut condensed milk. The coconut flavor blends wonderfully with cranberries and adds a delightful richness to your pie.
Cranberry Custard Pie: A Creamy Holiday Treasure Awaiting You
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Roll out your refrigerated pie crust on a floured surface until it's about 1/8-inch thick.
- Carefully transfer the crust to a 9-inch pie pan, pressing it into the edges and trimming excess dough.
- Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights. Par-bake for 20 minutes until lightly golden.
- In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries and orange juice over medium heat. Cook for 4-5 minutes until cranberries burst.
- Transfer the mixture to a blender. Blend until smooth, then strain the puree through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, collecting about 2 cups.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, cranberry puree, and orange zest until smooth.
- Pour the custard filling into the cooled pie crust and bake for 30-35 minutes until the center is slightly jiggly but set.
- Let the pie cool at room temperature for 2 hours, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Before serving, garnish with whipped cream, fresh cranberries, or colorful sprinkles if desired.
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