This Cranberry Custard Pie is a showstopper for your holiday table. The vibrant ruby-red cranberries paired with the silky, creamy custard create a stunning visual and a flavor that perfectly balances tart and sweet. The hint of orange zest elevates the pie with a fresh, citrusy note that adds a touch of sophistication to every bite. Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or bringing a dessert to a family gathering, this pie is bound to impress. The flaky crust holds it all together, making it as delightful to look at as it is to eat. Serve it chilled or at room temperature for a cozy and satisfying dessert everyone will love.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- Refrigerated pie crust or a deep 9-inch pie shell (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 cups (480 g / 17 oz) cranberries (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup (240 ml / 8 fl oz) orange juice (freshly squeezed is best)
- 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) sweetened condensed milk
- 6 large egg yolks, at room temperature
- 1 tbsp orange zest (from approximately 2 oranges)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the refrigerated pie crust or prepare your homemade deep-dish pie shell, and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan. Trim and flute the edges as desired.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberries and orange juice. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let it cool.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, and orange zest until smooth and well combined.
- Spread the cranberry mixture evenly into the pie shell. Pour the custard filling over the cranberries, ensuring it covers the fruit completely.
- Bake the pie for 40–45 minutes, or until the custard is set and lightly golden. Allow the pie to cool completely before serving, as the custard will firm up as it cools.
- Optional: Garnish with whipped cream or orange zest before serving for an extra touch of elegance.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 280 kcal per serving | Servings: 8 servings
Cranberry Custard Pie: A Festive Dessert with a Tangy Twist
Cranberry Custard Pie is the perfect holiday dessert that beautifully combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the silky sweetness of a creamy custard filling. Whether you’re planning a Thanksgiving dinner, a Christmas feast, or any other festive gathering, this pie delivers a delightful blend of textures and flavors that will leave your guests asking for more. Its vibrant appearance, complemented by the ruby-red hue of cranberries and the golden custard, makes it not just a treat for the palate but also a feast for the eyes.
A Celebration of Cranberries
Cranberries are often hailed as the quintessential holiday fruit, their bright color and tangy flavor embodying the essence of festive cheer. Native to North America, these berries have been a staple in holiday cooking for centuries. They are renowned not only for their unique taste but also for their health benefits, being rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Using cranberries in this pie allows you to enjoy their natural tartness in a dessert that balances it perfectly with sweetness, making it a versatile dish for both casual and formal occasions.
The Art of Custard Perfection
The custard in this pie is a silky smooth, creamy filling that provides a luscious contrast to the tart cranberries. Made with sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, and a touch of orange zest, the custard is rich yet light, offering a luxurious mouthfeel with every bite. The inclusion of orange zest elevates the flavor profile, adding a citrusy brightness that complements the cranberries beautifully. The custard’s consistency is key it should be firm yet creamy, holding its shape when sliced but melting in the mouth.
A Flaky Crust That Brings It All Together
The crust serves as the foundation of this pie, providing a flaky, buttery base that supports the layers of cranberry and custard. While store-bought pie crusts can save time and effort, making your own crust from scratch can take this dessert to the next level. A homemade crust allows you to control the flavor and texture, ensuring it’s perfectly crisp and golden. Whether you opt for a store-bought or homemade option, the crust is essential for balancing the tartness of the cranberries and the richness of the custard, creating a well-rounded bite every time.
The Role of Orange in the Recipe
One of the standout elements of this recipe is the use of orange juice and zest. Orange not only enhances the flavor of the custard but also provides a subtle aromatic note that ties the whole dessert together. The natural sweetness of freshly squeezed orange juice helps mellow the cranberries’ tartness, while the zest infuses the custard with a burst of citrus flavor. This clever pairing of orange and cranberry adds depth and complexity to the pie, making it a memorable addition to your holiday dessert repertoire.
Why This Pie is Perfect for the Holidays
Holidays are all about bringing people together, and this Cranberry Custard Pie is designed to do just that. Its festive appearance and balanced flavor profile make it a crowd-pleaser that appeals to all ages. The pie can be made a day in advance, allowing you to focus on other preparations without compromising on dessert quality. Additionally, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments, such as whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of orange glaze, giving your guests the option to customize their experience.
Versatility and Customization
One of the greatest aspects of this pie is its versatility. While the recipe calls for cranberries, you can experiment with other fruits or berries depending on availability and personal preference. Blueberries, raspberries, or even a mix of tart and sweet apples can work as substitutes, offering a fresh twist on the classic recipe. Similarly, the custard can be flavored with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to add a warm, cozy touch. These variations make the recipe adaptable to different tastes and occasions.
A Delightful Presentation
When it comes to presentation, this pie truly shines. The deep red cranberries create a striking contrast against the pale custard and golden crust, making it a centerpiece-worthy dessert. For an extra touch of elegance, consider garnishing the pie with sugared cranberries, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream. Serving the pie in a decorative dish or alongside holiday-themed tableware can further enhance its visual appeal, creating a picture-perfect dessert experience.
The Importance of Balancing Flavors
Achieving the right balance of flavors is crucial to the success of this pie. The tart cranberries, sweet custard, and buttery crust work harmoniously to create a dessert that is neither too sour nor overly sweet. This balance is what makes the pie so enjoyable—it tantalizes the taste buds without overwhelming them, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer desserts that are not overly sugary.
Perfect for Any Occasion
While this pie is often associated with holiday festivities, it can be enjoyed year-round. Its refreshing flavor makes it suitable for spring and summer gatherings, while its rich custard and vibrant cranberries make it a comforting treat for cooler months. Whether served at a family dinner, a potluck, or a special celebration, this pie is guaranteed to impress.
Conclusion:
Cranberry Custard Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of seasonal flavors and the joy of baking. Its harmonious combination of tart cranberries, creamy custard, and flaky crust makes it a versatile and crowd-pleasing option for any occasion. With its stunning presentation and customizable elements, this pie is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is approachable yet impressive, offering a delicious way to make lasting holiday memories.
By including this pie in your repertoire, you’re not only embracing the tradition of holiday baking but also creating a dessert that will be cherished for years to come. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to delight your friends and family with this exquisite Cranberry Custard Pie.
