Name: Delicious Nantucket Cranberry Pie: A Cozy Holiday Treat
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 95 min
Ingredients: 2.5 cups Cranberries (fresh or frozen, coarsely chopped); 0.5 cups Pecans or Walnuts (chopped); 0.5 cups White Sugar (for filling); 1 cups White Sugar (for topping); 2 large Eggs (lightly beaten); 0.75 cups Unsalted Butter (softened); 1 cups All-Purpose Flour; 0.5 teaspoon Salt; 0.5 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 0.5 teaspoon Almond Extract

As the aroma of sweet-tart cranberries fills the air, memories of cozy family gatherings come rushing back. This Easy Nantucket Cranberry Pie is the perfect centerpiece for your holiday table, combining the best of both cake and pie without the hassle of a crust. With its quick preparation and forgiving nature, you can whip it up in no time, making it a go-to dessert for unexpected guests or last-minute celebrations. Imagine serving it warm, perhaps with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melting on top—pure comfort in every bite. Ready to indulge in a delightful treat that perfectly balances flavor and ease? Let’s dive into this seasonal favorite that’s sure to impress!

Why Is Nantucket Cranberry Pie a Must-Try?

Delightful Flavor Combination: The sweet-tart interplay of cranberries and sugar creates a mouthwatering experience that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

Quick Preparation: With no crust to fuss over, this recipe is as easy as it gets, making it ideal for those busy holiday seasons.

Versatile Delight: Whether you opt for fresh or frozen cranberries, this pie suits any household, making it perfect for spontaneous gatherings or special occasions.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: It’s a beloved classic that delights guests and family alike, promising smiles all around.

Cozy Comfort: Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to transform your dessert into a warm hug, embodying all the comforts of home.

For more comforting desserts, don’t miss our simple pumpkin pie and classic apple crisp!

Nantucket Cranberry Pie Ingredients

• Discover the essentials for this delightful treat!

For the Pie Filling

Cranberries – 2 ½ cups, fresh or frozen, coarsely chopped; they provide a sweet-tart flavor that is essential for the Nantucket Cranberry Pie.
Pecans or Walnuts – ½ cup, chopped; these add a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing the pie’s texture.
White Sugar – ½ cup (for filling), 1 cup (for topping); this sweetness balances the tartness of the cranberries, creating a perfectly harmonious dessert.

For the Batter

Large Eggs – 2, lightly beaten; they act as a binding agent, adding richness to the dessert.
Unsalted Butter – ¾ cup, softened; providing moisture and a rich flavor, this is vital for a tender crumb.
All-Purpose Flour – 1 cup; this gives structure to the batter, allowing the pie to rise beautifully while baking.
Salt – ½ teaspoon; it enhances the overall flavor, contrasting with the sweetness effectively.
Vanilla Extract – ½ teaspoon; adds warmth and depth, making the pie’s flavor even more inviting.
Almond Extract – ½ teaspoon; complements the cranberries with its delightful nutty aroma.

Make this beautiful Nantucket Cranberry Pie a centerpiece on your holiday table—you won’t regret it!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Nantucket Cranberry Pie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, lightly butter a 10-inch pie plate to create a non-stick surface for your Nantucket Cranberry Pie. Make sure to cover the bottom and sides evenly, as this will ensure your pie comes out perfectly after baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Cranberry Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine 2 ½ cups of coarsely chopped cranberries, ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts, and ½ cup of sugar. Stir the mixture well until the cranberries and nuts are evenly coated with sugar. Once mixed, spread this delightful filling evenly in the prepared pie plate, creating a colorful base for your pie.

Step 3: Mix the Batter
In a separate mixing bowl, beat together 2 lightly beaten eggs, ¾ cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup of sugar, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon of almond extract. Whisk until all ingredients are well combined and the batter is thick, ensuring a cohesive mixture that will complement the tart cranberries.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Using an ice cream scooper, dollop the thick batter over the cranberry and nut filling you prepared earlier. Then, gently spread the batter evenly across the top with a flat spatula, ensuring every corner is covered. This will create a beautiful crust on top of the Nantucket Cranberry Pie as it bakes.

Step 5: Bake the Pie
Carefully place the assembled pie in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. Keep an eye on the pie, and look for a golden-brown top; a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. As it bakes, you’ll notice the sweet aroma of cranberries filling your kitchen, making it hard to resist!

Step 6: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, remove the Nantucket Cranberry Pie from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to develop further, enhancing your dessert’s taste and making it easier to slice when serving. The pie tastes even better after resting!

Nantucket Cranberry Pie Variations

Feel free to get creative and put your own spin on this classic dessert!

Dairy-Free: Substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil or a vegan buttery spread for a dairy-free version.
Nut-Free: Replace chopped nuts with oats or simply leave them out for a nut-free option. This way, everyone can enjoy your delicious pie!
Citrusy Twist: Add the zest of an orange or lemon to the batter to bring a fresh citrusy brightness that beautifully complements the cranberries.
Different Berries: Swap out cranberries for fresh raspberries or blueberries for a delicious twist. Each fruit will bring a unique flavor while keeping the pie’s essence.
Chocolate Lover’s Delight: Stir in some chocolate chips into the batter. Chocolate adds a rich depth that contrasts beautifully with the tartness of the cranberries.
Spiced Up: Sprinkle in a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to warm the flavors. These spices create a cozy, festive essence perfect for holiday gatherings.
Pumpkin Pie Mix: Swapping half of the cranberries for canned pumpkin puree gives a unique and tasty pumpkin twist to your pie, celebrating the fall season even more.
Heat It Up: If you like spice, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling for a surprising kick! The heat contrasts pleasantly with the sweet-tart filling.

Explore these variations to create a personalized take on the Nantucket Cranberry Pie, and for more comforting desserts, don’t forget to check out our classic apple crisp and simple pumpkin pie!

What to Serve with Easy Nantucket Cranberry Pie

With its sweet-tart fusion and cozy appeal, this pie invites delightful pairings that can elevate your dining experience.

Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy texture that complements the pie’s richness beautifully.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve warm with creamy vanilla ice cream melting on top for a comforting treat that’s simply irresistible.
Hot Apple Cider: The warm spices in apple cider enhance the pie’s flavors, creating a festive atmosphere perfect for gatherings.

Experience the magic of a family meal! Imagine the laughter and conversation as you savor each bite alongside a refreshed take on a seasonal classic.

Pecan Pie Bars: Add chewy pecan pie bars for a variety that brings sweetness and crunch to your dessert table.
Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses contrasts nicely with the pie, offering a savory balance to the sweetness.
Chai Tea: Inviting chai tea infused with spices echoes the flavors of the pie while adding warmth to chilly winter evenings.
Dark Chocolate Shavings: A sprinkle of dark chocolate shavings enhances the dessert with a sophisticated touch that delights the palate.

Expert Tips for Nantucket Cranberry Pie

Make Ahead Magic: Prepare the pie a day in advance to let the flavors meld—this makes the Nantucket Cranberry Pie even more delicious!
Frozen is Fine: You can use frozen cranberries without thawing; they’ll maintain their texture and tartness in the pie.
Perfect Topping: Use an ice cream scooper for spreading the batter evenly over the cranberries—this ensures a smooth and easy application.
Taste Adjustment: Feel free to tweak the sugar based on your preference for sweetness versus tartness; this customization makes every bite just right!
Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center—it should come out clean when your pie is perfectly baked and ready to enjoy.
Serving Suggestions: Best served warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream; the contrast between the pie and toppings creates a heavenly experience!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Nantucket Cranberry Pies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can prepare the cranberry filling and spread it in the pie plate up to 24 hours in advance, covering it tightly with plastic wrap to keep the cranberries fresh. Additionally, the batter can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply mix the batter with the filling and bake as instructed. Not only does this method enhance the flavors, but it also guarantees a delicious pie with minimal effort when it’s time to serve!

How to Store and Freeze Nantucket Cranberry Pie

Room Temperature: Store the pie at room temperature for up to 1 day, covered with foil or plastic wrap to prevent drying out.

Fridge: If keeping longer, refrigerate for up to 3 days. Place the pie in an airtight container to maintain its moisture and flavor.

Freezer: Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Enjoy your Nantucket Cranberry Pie!

Nantucket Cranberry Pie Recipe FAQs

How do I choose fresh cranberries for this pie?
Absolutely! When selecting fresh cranberries, look for berries that are firm, plump, and have a vibrant red color. Avoid cranberries that have dark spots or wrinkles, as these may be overripe. If they bounce a bit when dropped, that’s a good sign of freshness!

How should I store leftovers of Nantucket Cranberry Pie?
Very simple! You can store the pie at room temperature for up to 1 day, covered in foil or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best taste!

Can I freeze Nantucket Cranberry Pie?
Absolutely! For freezing, wrap the leftover pie tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be safely frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.

What are some common troubleshooting tips for baking this pie?
If your pie doesn’t seem to bake properly, make sure your oven is fully preheated before placing the pie inside. If the top browns too quickly, you can cover it with foil to prevent burning while allowing the inside to bake through. Remember to check doneness with a toothpick—when it comes out clean, your pie is perfectly baked!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Certainly! If anyone in your family has nut allergies, substitute the pecans or walnuts with seeds, such as sunflower seeds, or simply omit them entirely. Additionally, if someone is avoiding eggs, you can experiment with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) as a binding agent, but results may vary slightly.

Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh for this recipe?
Yes, you can! If using frozen cranberries, there’s no need to thaw them before mixing them into the pie. They will maintain their tartness and texture, simplifying your prep. Just sprinkle a bit of extra sugar if you’d like to account for the added tartness that frozen cranberries can sometimes have.