Cranberry Apple Pie

by
Freshly baked Cranberry Apple Pie with golden crust and vibrant fruit filling

Cranberry Apple Pie: A Flavorful Tradition Awaits

Imagine the scent of warm, freshly baked pie wafting through your home, as the sweet and tangy aroma of juicy cranberries mingles with the comforting essence of tender, spiced apples. Cranberry Apple Pie is a celebration of fall flavors that not only fills your kitchen with an irresistible fragrance but also stirs nostalgic memories of family gatherings and cherished moments. The flaky, buttery crust cradles a luscious filling that bursts with color and flavor, making each bite an indulgent experience. This pie is worth making not just for its delightful taste, but also for the smiles it brings to the faces of friends and family gathered around the table.

Can You Resist a Slice of Homemade Pie?

What could be more heartwarming than a slice of dessert fresh from the oven? Picture this: a chilled evening, laughter echoing through the house, and the tantalizing slice of homemade Cranberry Apple Pie waiting for you. Will you enjoy it still warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting on top, or save it for breakfast the next day with a dollop of whipped cream? This pie doesn’t just satisfy your sweet tooth; it’s an invitation to create memories that linger long after the last crumb has disappeared.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cranberry Apple Pie is crafted with you in mind. Here’s why you’ll adore it:

  • Simple Preparation: With easy-to-follow steps, this pie can become a staple in your baking repertoire.

  • Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a holiday, a birthday, or a casual weekend gathering, this pie is sure to impress everyone with its beautiful presentation and burst of flavors.

  • Minimal Ingredients Needed: With straightforward ingredients, you can whip this up in no time, making it a fantastic option for spontaneous baking adventures.

  • Family-Friendly: Kids will relish the sweet tartness of the cranberries combined with the cozy apple filling—Yum!

  • Versatile: Perfect on its own or served with ice cream, cream, or even cheese.

Ingredients

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 tsp. baking powder
  • 1 tsp. kosher salt
  • 1 cup shortening, cut into chunks
  • 1 Tbsp. white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 6 Tbsp. ice water, divided
  • 2 egg whites, divided
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 3 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/2 cup white sugar
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 tsp. cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp. nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp. allspice
  • 4 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
  • 2 cups fresh cranberries
  • Coarse sugar for sprinkling (optional)

Each ingredient plays its role in delivering a mouthwatering, scrumptious experience. The apples bring a comforting sweetness and tender texture, while the cranberries add a tangy zing that complements the warm spices. The flaky crust is the perfect vehicle that holds this flavor explosion together—and yes, it’s just as satisfying to bake as it is to eat!

Timing

This Cranberry Apple Pie strikes a wonderful balance between fast indulgence and slow, luxurious baking. While the prep comes together swiftly, the warm, aromatic pie in your oven creates a slow-cooked ambiance that heightens anticipation. Spend about 20-30 minutes assembling the ingredients and assembling the pie, and then let those delightful aromas fill your home for about an hour as it bakes.

Step-by-Step

Step 1: Make the Crust

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the shortening in chunks and use a pastry cutter to work it into the flour until it resembles a coarse meal, about 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 2: Add the Liquid

Stir in the vinegar and 4 tablespoons of ice water. Toss the mixture gently, then add the remaining ice water until the dough begins to coalesce. You may need to add more water one tablespoon at a time until all flour is moistened.

Step 3: Form the Dough Balls

Divide the dough in half and form two evenly sized balls. Wrap each in plastic wrap and press down slightly to create a disk shape.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Remove from the freezer and allow it to thaw for 15 to 30 minutes before rolling one ball into the bottom crust and slicing the other for a lovely lattice top.

Step 5: Prepare the Filling

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the bottom crust in your pie pan and brush it with egg white. Pop it in the freezer while working on the filling.

Step 6: Make the Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in flour to create a paste, then add water, sugars, and spices, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer, bathing the ingredients in rich flavors.

Step 7: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with fresh cranberries. Pour the warm brown sugar mixture over the fruits and coat them thoroughly. Arrange the apple and cranberry mound in your pie dish and cover with lattice crust.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Brush the lattice with the remaining egg white and sprinkle with coarse sugar, if desired. Bake until the apples are soft and the crust turns a golden brown, about an hour.

Nutritional Information

A slice of this pie packs in about 350-400 calories, making it a delightful indulgence. While the sweetness and tartness of the filling are undeniably satisfying, remember to savor it as a once-in-a-while treat that warms the heart and soul.

Healthier Alternatives

For those seeking to lighten the recipe, consider these alternatives:

  • Use whole wheat flour for the crust for added fiber.

  • Substitute low-fat butter or coconut oil to reduce saturated fats.

  • Experiment with less sugar or natural sweeteners, like honey or maple syrup.

  • For a dairy-free version, swap butter for non-dairy margarine or oil.

Serving Suggestions

Serve up this Cranberry Apple Pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for decadent layering. It also makes an excellent dessert for holiday feasts, family gatherings, or cozy weekend brunches. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser that guarantees smiles all around.

Common Mistakes

  • Overbaking: Keep an eye on it in the oven; let it cool enough before slicing to avoid a soupy bottom.

  • Texture Issues: Ensure even mixing of your dough for a flaky crust; avoid overworking it.

  • Messes: Flour your surfaces and rolling pin well to prevent sticking.

Storing Tips

After the pie cools, it can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or frozen for longer shelf life. To reheat, simply pop it into a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through. Nothing beats a comforting slice straight from the oven!

Tempting You to Bake It ASAP

Don’t wait too long—gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and invest time in creating this delectable Cranberry Apple Pie. Experience the joy of baking and the warmth it brings to your home. The aromas, the flavors, and the laughter shared are all part of the delicious journey.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen cranberries can be substituted; just be sure to increase the cooking time a bit for the filling.

2. How do I prevent my crust from becoming soggy?
Brush the crust with egg white before adding the filling to create a barrier, or partially bake it for 5-10 minutes beforehand.

3. Can I make the crust ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the crust, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate or freeze until you’re ready to bake.

4. What’s a good substitute for shortening?
Butter or coconut oil can work well as a substitute for a more flavorful crust, but the texture may differ slightly.

5. Can I add other fruits to the filling?
Certainly! Pears or blueberries would make excellent additions to mix up the flavors and textures.

Embrace the spirit of baking and savor all the deliciousness this Cranberry Apple Pie has to offer—your taste buds will thank you!

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