Indulge in a Scrumptious Cranberry Custard Pie Recipe Today!

Ah, the holiday season – a time of joy, togetherness, and, of course, indulgent desserts. Enter the Cranberry Custard Pie, a delectable treat that’s sure to wow your guests and have them coming back for seconds (or thirds!). This rich, creamy pie with a burst of tart cranberry flavor is the perfect way to celebrate the season.

Cranberry Custard Pie has a long and storied history, tracing its roots back to the early American settlements. As the story goes, resourceful homemakers would use the bountiful cranberry harvest to create this luscious dessert, showcasing the tart berries in a silky, sweet custard filling. Over the years, this recipe has become a beloved tradition, a staple on Thanksgiving tables and Christmas feasts alike.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Cranberry Custard Pie

To create this delightful Cranberry Custard Pie, you’ll need a few key ingredients:

• Refrigerated pie crust or a deep 9-inch pie shell (store-bought or homemade)
• 4 cups / 480 g / 17 oz cranberries (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup / 240 ml / 8 fl oz orange juice (freshly squeezed is best)
• 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) sweetened condensed milk
• 6 large egg yolks, at room temperature
• 1 tbsp orange zest (from approximately 2 oranges)

Preparing Your Kitchen for Pie-Making Success

Before you dive into the world of Cranberry Custard Pie, it’s important to have your kitchen well-equipped and organized. Gather your essential tools and utensils, such as mixing bowls, measuring cups, a saucepan, and a whisk. This will ensure a smooth and efficient pie-making process, allowing you to focus on the delicious task at hand.

Proper kitchen organization can make all the difference when baking. Set aside a clean work surface, have your ingredients prepped and measured, and ensure your oven is preheated and ready to go. This level of preparation will allow you to move through the steps with ease and confidence, resulting in a perfect Cranberry Custard Pie every time.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cranberry Custard Pie

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating this irresistible Cranberry Custard Pie:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Pie Shell: Place the pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it firmly into the bottom and sides. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges.
3. Cook Cranberries: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberries and orange juice. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries begin to soften and release their juices. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Make Custard: In a bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, and orange zest until smooth.
5. Assemble Pie: Spread the cooked cranberry mixture evenly over the bottom of the pie shell. Pour the custard mixture over the cranberries.
6. Bake: Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean.
7. Cool & Serve: Allow the pie to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing. Serve chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy the perfect balance of sweet and tart!

Tips for Perfecting Your Cranberry Custard Pie

To ensure your Cranberry Custard Pie turns out absolutely divine, here are a few helpful tips:

• Adjusting Sweetness and Tartness: If you prefer a sweeter or more tart pie, you can adjust the amount of sweetened condensed milk or the quantity of cranberries to suit your taste buds.
• Dairy-Free Options: For those with dietary restrictions, you can substitute the sweetened condensed milk with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut condensed milk or a homemade vegan condensed milk.
• Storing and Reheating: Cranberry Custard Pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Cranberry Custard Pie is a true showstopper, and it deserves to be showcased in all its glory. Consider serving it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. The tart cranberries and creamy custard pair beautifully with the sweetness of these accompaniments.

For a festive touch, you can garnish the pie with sugared cranberries, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce. This versatile dessert is equally at home on a Thanksgiving table, a Christmas buffet, or as a special dessert for any cozy gathering.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What type of cranberries work best for a Cranberry Custard Pie?

Both fresh and frozen cranberries work well in this recipe. Fresh cranberries will provide a slightly more vibrant flavor, while frozen cranberries can be more convenient and accessible. Either option will yield a delicious result.

Can I make a Cranberry Custard Pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! Cranberry Custard Pie is a fantastic make-ahead dessert. You can prepare the entire pie up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate it until ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld and the custard to set perfectly.

How do I prevent the custard from curdling while baking?

To prevent the custard from curdling, make sure all the ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. Gradually whisk the egg yolks into the sweetened condensed milk, and be careful not to overheat the mixture during baking. Baking at the recommended temperature and time will ensure a smooth, velvety custard.

What crust options are best for Cranberry Custard Pie?

You can use a store-bought refrigerated pie crust or make your own homemade pie dough for the best results. A buttery, flaky crust provides the perfect base for the rich cranberry custard filling. Experiment with different crust recipes to find your personal favorite.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• French Apple Custard Pie
• Christmas Jam
• Cranberry and Brie Filo Crackers
• Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

Conclusion

Cranberry Custard Pie is a truly remarkable dessert that captures the essence of the holiday season. With its vibrant cranberry filling, creamy custard, and flaky crust, this pie is a masterpiece of flavor and texture. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply craving a comforting treat, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and become a cherished addition to your repertoire.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let’s dive into the delicious world of Cranberry Custard Pie. Happy baking, and enjoy every bite of this holiday masterpiece!

Looking for more tasty ideas? Visit Elena’s Fast & Flavorful Recipes on Pinterest for a treasure trove of easy meals, comforting bakes, and fun kitchen inspiration!

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