Name: Cranberry Pecan Pie
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 310 min
Ingredients: 6 tablespoons shortening; 1.5 teaspoons buttermilk; 2 tablespoons hot water; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 3 large eggs; 1 cup light or dark corn syrup; 2/3 cup sugar; 1/4 cup butter, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries, thawed; 1 cup chopped pecans; sweetened whipped cream (optional)

Introduction to Cranberry Pecan Pie

Why cranberry pecan pie is a must-try dessert

If you’re looking to elevate your dessert game this winter, Cranberry Pecan Pie should be at the top of your list. This delightful pie combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the rich, nutty flavor of pecans, creating a dessert that excites the palate. Its sweet and tangy filling balanced with the buttery pie crust makes it an irresistible centerpiece for any gathering.

But why stop at flavor? This pie is also incredibly festive, making it perfect for holiday dinners or cozy family gatherings. The burst of color from the cranberries adds a vibrant touch, sure to impress your guests. Did you know that cranberries are loaded with antioxidants? Incorporating them into your dessert not only adds flavor but also packs a nutritional punch source.

Making Cranberry Pecan Pie is easier than you might think. With a straightforward recipe and ingredients you can easily find, you'll be able to whip it up even on a busy day. Whether served on its own or dressed up with a dollop of whipped cream, this pie is a delightful treat that will have everyone asking for seconds. So why not give it a whirl? Your taste buds will thank you!

Ingredients for Cranberry Pecan Pie

Essential ingredients for the perfect pie

Creating your Cranberry Pecan Pie starts with a handful of essential ingredients that harmonize beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the crust:
6 tablespoons shortening
1-½ teaspoons buttermilk
2 tablespoons hot water
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon salt
For the filling:
3 large eggs
1 cup light or dark corn syrup
⅔ cup sugar
¼ cup butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries, thawed
1 cup chopped pecans

Make sure to pick the freshest cranberries you can find, as they add the perfect amount of tang to balance the sweetness!

Optional toppings and accompaniments

To elevate your Cranberry Pecan Pie, consider adding:

Sweetened whipped cream: A classic topping that mellows the pie's flavors.
Vanilla ice cream: Adds a delightful creaminess and temperature contrast.
Chopped nuts: A sprinkle of additional pecans for some extra crunch.
Caramel sauce: Drizzling this over the top can bring a rich, indulgent touch.

Pair your pie with a hot cup of coffee or your favorite herbal tea for a cozy dessert experience! If you're interested in more pie ideas, check out this Comprehensive Guide to Pies.

Step-by-step preparation of Cranberry Pecan Pie

Creating a Cranberry Pecan Pie from scratch is not just about following a recipe; it’s about embracing the festive spirit, filling your kitchen with warm aromas, and creating something that will surely impress your friends and family. Let’s dive into the details of how to whip up this delicious dessert, step by step.

Prepare the crust

Start by gathering your ingredients for the pie crust. In a bowl, beat together 6 tablespoons of shortening and 1-½ teaspoons of buttermilk until well blended. Gradually add in 2 tablespoons of hot water, mixing until light and fluffy. This is where the magic begins! Then, fold in 1 cup of all-purpose flour and ½ teaspoon of salt. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic, and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or even overnight. This chilling time is crucial as it enables the dough to firm up, making it easier to roll out later.

Make the filling

While your dough is chilling, let's prepare the filling for our Cranberry Pecan Pie. In a large bowl, whisk together 3 large eggs, 1 cup of corn syrup (light or dark), ⅔ cup of sugar, ¼ cup of melted butter, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smoothly combined. The sweetness from the sugar and syrup, balanced with the tartness of the cranberries, will create a flavor explosion! Gently stir in 2 cups of fresh or thawed cranberries and 1 cup of chopped pecans. This mixture is not just delicious; it’s also the heart of what makes Cranberry Pecan Pie truly special.

Assemble the pie

After your dough has chilled, preheat your oven to 425°F. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a circle about ⅛-in. thick and carefully transfer it to a 9-inch pie plate. Trim the crust so it overhangs about ½ inch beyond the edge, then flute the edges for a decorative touch. Pour the cranberry-pecan filling into the crust, allowing it to overflow just a tad—it’ll be worth it!

Bake to perfection

Now, the moment of truth! Bake the pie on a lower oven rack for about 10 minutes to set the crust. Then, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F and continue baking for an additional 35 to 40 minutes, or until the filling is almost set. Your kitchen will start to smell heavenly, so try not to peek too often!

Cool and chill

Once baked, let your Cranberry Pecan Pie cool completely on a wire rack. For the best flavor and texture, refrigerate it overnight, covered gently. This chilling process allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes serving a breeze. On serving day, if you like, top it off with a dollop of sweetened whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.

There you have it—a friendly step-by-step guide to making a delightful Cranberry Pecan Pie that will elevate your dessert table this season! Enjoy your baking!

Variations on Cranberry Pecan Pie

Nut-free version

If you're looking to enjoy Cranberry Pecan Pie without nuts, you can simply swap the pecans for seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds. This not only keeps the pie nut-free but also adds a nice crunch and a slightly different flavor profile. Additionally, make sure to check your crust ingredients for any unintended traces of nuts.

Vegan cranberry pecan pie

Want to make a plant-based version? For a vegan cranberry pecan pie, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water for each egg). Use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of corn syrup, and replace butter with coconut oil. This approach will give you a deliciously rich pie that everyone can enjoy! For more tips on vegan baking, check out resources like Minimalist Baker.

Cooking tips and notes for Cranberry Pecan Pie

Key techniques for a great crust

Achieving the perfect crust is essential for your Cranberry Pecan Pie. Use cold shortening and buttermilk to ensure flakiness. After mixing, let your dough chill for at least 4 hours or overnight—this step prevents gluten buildup, resulting in a tender crust. When rolling out the dough, do so on a lightly floured surface to avoid sticking, and try to handle it as little as possible for that delightful texture. For more tips, visit King Arthur Baking.

Tips for a balanced filling

To create a well-balanced filling, it's crucial to measure your ingredients accurately. Too much corn syrup can make it overly sweet, while cranberries add a necessary tartness. Incorporating both light and dark corn syrup can provide depth of flavor. Don't forget to give the filling a good whisk to ensure everything is fully blended! Looking for more dessert inspiration? Check out Taste of Home.

Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Pecan Pie

Pairing with Whipped Cream or Ice Cream

Elevate your Cranberry Pecan Pie by serving it warm with a generous dollop of sweetened whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy texture complements the tangy and nutty flavors perfectly, creating a delightful contrast. For an extra twist, consider using cinnamon-flavored whipped cream or a scoop of caramel ice cream for a richer experience.

Creative Serving Ideas

Looking for unique ways to present your Cranberry Pecan Pie? Try cutting it into bite-sized squares for a fun dessert platter or use mini pie tins for individual servings—ideal for parties! You can also drizzle warm caramel sauce over the top before serving, or add a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the pie’s flavors. Don’t shy away from garnishing with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness. For more tips on making your desserts shine, check out Martha Stewart's entertaining guide.

Time Breakdown for Cranberry Pecan Pie

Preparation Time

Getting started on your Cranberry Pecan Pie takes about 25 minutes. This includes mixing your crust and filling ingredients and letting the dough chill. Quick and efficient!

Baking Time

Once your pie is filled and ready to go, the baking process requires another 45 minutes. First, you'll blast it at a high temperature and then lower the heat to let it set just right.

Total Time

From start to finish, you should set aside about 1 hour and 10 minutes for preparation and baking, plus additional chilling time for the best flavor. Ideal for planning your holiday dessert spread!

For more baking tips and techniques, check out resources like King Arthur Baking or Bon Appétit!

Nutritional Facts for Cranberry Pecan Pie

Calories per slice

Each slice of this delightful Cranberry Pecan Pie packs 514 calories, making it a rich yet satisfying treat perfect for the holidays.

Key nutritional components

In addition to being delicious, this pie offers essential nutrients:

Fat: 27g total, with 7g saturated fat for those mindful of their fat intake.
Cholesterol: 85mg, so keep that in mind if you're watching your cholesterol levels.
Carbohydrates: 68g, including 52g sugars and 3g fiber, giving you a sweet burst of energy.
Protein: 5g, contributing to the filling nature of this dessert.

Enjoy your slice responsibly, and maybe even pair it with a warm cup of herbal tea or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful experience! For more on the benefits of cranberries, you can explore Healthline.

FAQ about Cranberry Pecan Pie

How can I make my pie filling less sweet?

If you’d like to dial down the sweetness of your Cranberry Pecan Pie, consider reducing the sugar in the filling. You might cut it by ¼ cup or even ½ cup, depending on your taste preferences. Additionally, incorporating a splash of lemon juice can enhance the tartness of the cranberries, balancing the overall sweetness beautifully.

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh or frozen?

Absolutely! While fresh or frozen cranberries offer bright flavor, dried cranberries can work in a pinch. Just keep in mind that they are typically sweeter, so you might want to adjust the sugar in your pie filling accordingly. For a richer flavor, you could also soak the dried cranberries in warm water or orange juice briefly before adding them to the mix.

How should I store leftover pie?

To keep your Cranberry Pecan Pie fresh, store it in the refrigerator, covered lightly with plastic wrap or foil. It can last for about 3-4 days. If you're planning to keep it for longer, consider freezing it. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic before placing it in an airtight container. This way, you can enjoy that delicious pie even weeks after baking!

Conclusion on Cranberry Pecan Pie

Final thoughts on enjoying this delightful dessert

Cranberry Pecan Pie is a must-try for your holiday gatherings. Its blend of tart cranberries and crunchy pecans creates a unique flavor experience that everyone will appreciate. Serve it chilled, perhaps with a scoop of sweetened whipped cream, and watch your guests delight in every bite! Enjoy!