Apple Cranberry Pie is the ultimate combination of sweet, tart, and spiced flavors—perfect for fall and holiday gatherings. With tender apples, tangy cranberries, and a flaky crust, this pie has everything you need for a cozy, crowd-pleasing dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Cranberry Pie
- Sweet and Tart Combo: The apples bring sweetness while the cranberries add a delicious tart contrast.
- Festive Flavor: A hint of cinnamon and nutmeg makes this pie taste like the holidays.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients come together for a stunning dessert.
Ingredients for Apple Cranberry Pie
- 1 pre-made double pie crust (top and bottom)
- 4 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces
- Optional: Egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water) and sugar for sprinkling
Tools You’ll Need
- Pie dish (9-inch)
- Large mixing bowl
- Rolling pin (if making homemade crust)
- Pastry brush
How to Make Apple Cranberry Pie
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out one pie crust and place it into the pie dish. Press gently to fit, and trim any excess. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, cranberries, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and lemon juice. Toss until the fruit is well-coated.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
- Spoon the filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly.
- Dot the filling with small pieces of butter for extra richness.
- Roll out the second pie crust and place it over the filling. Trim any excess and crimp the edges to seal. Cut a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
- For a golden crust, brush the top with egg wash and sprinkle with a bit of sugar.
Step 4: Bake the Pie
- Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45–55 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Cover the edges with foil if they brown too quickly.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
- Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips for the Best Apple Cranberry Pie
- Use Firm Apples: Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great choices that hold their shape when baked.
- For Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice for more warm spice.
- Prevent a Soggy Bottom: Preheat a baking sheet in the oven before placing the pie on it to help the bottom crust bake evenly.
Storage Instructions
- Room Temperature: Cover loosely and store at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Fridge: Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat slices in the oven for a warm treat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
A: Yes, though fresh cranberries provide the best tart flavor. If using dried, soak them in hot water for 10 minutes before adding to the filling.
Q: Can I freeze the pie?
A: Yes, bake the pie, let it cool completely, and wrap tightly before freezing for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Q: Can I make this pie vegan?
A: Yes! Use a vegan pie crust, replace butter with coconut oil, and skip the egg wash.
Nutritional Information (per slice)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 13g
- Fiber: 4g
A Festive Pie for Any Occasion
Apple Cranberry Pie is a delightful blend of sweet, tart, and spiced flavors that’s sure to be a hit. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, and enjoy this seasonal treat with family and friends!
