If you’re craving a dessert that truly dazzles with charm and flavor, look no further than this Cranberry Custard Pie Recipe. It’s a delightful combination of tart, juicy cranberries nestled beneath a luxuriously smooth custard, all encased in a flaky, buttery crust. This pie sings of holiday cheer but is just as perfect for any cozy get-together or simply a treat to brighten your day. The balance of sweet and tangy makes every bite irresistible, and trust me, you’ll want this cranberry custard pie at every special occasion thereafter!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but come together to create a pie bursting with flavor, texture, and festive color. Each element plays a crucial role, from the fresh cranberries lending a tart zing to the creamy custard that wraps around them in warm comfort.
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust: The buttery, flaky foundation for holding all your delicious filling.
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries (halved): Fresh or frozen both work beautifully, providing that signature tart burst.
- 3 large eggs: The custard’s rich binder, giving it structure and a silky texture.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the custard just enough to balance the cranberries’ tang.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Adds decadent creaminess and smoothness to the filling.
- 1/4 cup whole milk: Lightens the custard slightly for a perfect, melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, comforting aroma that enhances the custard’s flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Subtle spice that complements the cranberries’ natural tartness.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Helps the custard set beautifully without being too firm.
- Pinch of salt: Just enough to bring all the flavors together and brighten the sweetness.
How to Make Cranberry Custard Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust and Cranberries
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, roll out your pie crust and gently place it into a 9-inch pie dish. Take a moment to trim the edges neatly and crimp them however you like—the crust is the canvas for what’s to come. Next, scatter the halved cranberries evenly over the bottom of the crust, ensuring every slice will have that pop of tartness you’re craving.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Custard
In a medium bowl, combine the eggs and sugar, whisking until the mixture is smooth and well blended. This step is key for a silky custard. Then, add the heavy cream, whole milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, flour, and a pinch of salt. Whisk everything together until silky and smooth, with no lumps—this is the luscious base that will envelop those cranberries.
Step 3: Pour and Bake
Carefully pour the custard mixture over the cranberries in the pie shell, letting it settle evenly. Pop the pie into your preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the custard is set and the top gently turns a light golden color. Resist the urge to rush—letting it cool completely at room temperature is essential for the perfect slice.
Step 4: Chill Before Serving
For that clean-cut, beautiful presentation and enhanced flavor, chill the pie in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This rest time lets the custard firm up just right and for the flavors to meld together in harmony.
How to Serve Cranberry Custard Pie Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a generous dollop of whipped cream on each slice makes this pie feel extra special. You can even top with a few fresh cranberries or a sprinkle of cinnamon to add visual appeal and a little more zing.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with light, refreshing sides like a crisp green salad if you’re serving it as part of a meal, or a warm cup of spiced tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon. It balances sweet and tart with ease, so it doesn’t overpower simpler sides.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving slices on pretty dessert plates with a drizzle of caramel or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a truly indulgent experience. For holiday gatherings, consider individual mini pies in ramekins or tart pans using the same recipe for an adorable, personalized touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover pie covered tightly in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect to enjoy the next day or two.
Freezing
You can freeze this cranberry custard pie if you wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving to preserve that beautiful custard texture.
Reheating
Reheat slices gently in a low-temperature oven (around 300°F/150°C) for 10 to 15 minutes if you prefer it warm. Avoid the microwave as it can make the custard rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work perfectly and can be used straight from the freezer without thawing, making this recipe even easier to pull together any time of year.
Is it okay to use a store-bought pie crust?
Yes, a store-bought crust saves time and still tastes delicious. Just make sure it fits a 9-inch pie plate and is unbaked before adding the filling.
What if I want the custard to be less sweet?
You can reduce the sugar slightly to suit your taste, but remember the cranberries are tart, so the sweetness balances this perfectly.
Can I make this pie dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream and whole milk with coconut milk or another plant-based alternative, but note the flavor and texture will be a bit different.
How do I know when the custard is set?
The custard is set when the edges are firm and a slight jiggle remains in the center when you gently shake the pie. It will continue to set as it cools.
Final Thoughts
This Cranberry Custard Pie Recipe is such a heartfelt dessert that brings warmth and joy to any table. It’s easy enough for a weeknight treat but stunning enough for special occasions. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a beloved favorite among friends and family alike. So go ahead, bake a pie, and get ready to savor every luscious, tangy, creamy bite together!
Print
Cranberry Custard Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cranberry Custard Pie is a delightful holiday dessert featuring a rich, creamy custard filling studded with tart fresh or frozen cranberries, all nestled in a flaky 9-inch pie crust. Perfect for Christmas or Thanksgiving, this pie combines the festive flavors of cinnamon and vanilla for a comforting sweet treat.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
Filling
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries, halved
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and crust: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the pie crust and gently place it into a 9-inch pie dish, trimming and crimping the edges as desired to create a neat border.
- Add the cranberries: Evenly sprinkle the halved fresh or frozen cranberries across the bottom of the pie crust to form the fruit layer.
- Make the custard: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until fully combined. Then add heavy cream, whole milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, all-purpose flour, and a pinch of salt. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
- Combine and bake: Carefully pour the custard mixture over the cranberries in the prepared pie shell, making sure the filling spreads evenly.
- Bake the pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, until the custard is fully set and the top develops a light golden color.
- Cool and chill: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. For best flavor and texture, refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Frozen cranberries can be used directly without thawing; no need to defrost before baking.
- For an extra festive presentation, sprinkle powdered sugar or add a dollop of whipped cream on top just before serving.
