Introduction to Cranberry Custard Pie Delight
As the holiday season approaches, I find myself dreaming of desserts that bring warmth and joy to my family gatherings. One such treat is the Cranberry Custard Pie Delight. This delightful pie combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with a creamy custard filling, all nestled in a flaky crust. It’s the perfect solution for busy days when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, this pie will not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also create cherished memories around the table.
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Custard Pie Delight
This Cranberry Custard Pie Delight is a true gem for busy moms and professionals alike. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, taking just over an hour from start to finish. The combination of tart cranberries and rich custard creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s a stunning centerpiece for any holiday table, making it a delightful treat that’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients for Cranberry Custard Pie Delight
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating your Cranberry Custard Pie Delight. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Pre-made pie crust: A flaky crust is essential for holding all that delicious filling. You can use store-bought for convenience or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Fresh cranberries: These little gems provide the tartness that balances the sweetness of the custard. If fresh isn’t available, frozen cranberries work just as well.
- Granulated sugar: This sweetener is key to enhancing the flavors of both the cranberries and the custard. Adjust the amount based on your sweetness preference.
- Large eggs: Eggs are the backbone of the custard, giving it that rich, creamy texture. They help bind everything together beautifully.
- Heavy cream: This adds a luxurious creaminess to the custard. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla elevates the flavor profile, adding warmth and depth to the custard.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances the overall flavor, balancing the sweetness and tartness.
- Ground cinnamon: This spice adds a cozy warmth, perfect for the holiday season. Feel free to experiment with nutmeg for a different twist.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy baking!
How to Make Cranberry Custard Pie Delight
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps to create this delightful pie. Follow along, and I promise you’ll have a stunning dessert that will wow your family and friends!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your pie bakes evenly. A hot oven helps the custard set properly, giving you that perfect creamy texture. So, don’t skip this step!
Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust
Next, take your pre-made pie crust and gently place it in a 9-inch pie dish. Make sure to press it down lightly to fit the dish without stretching. If you’re using a homemade crust, roll it out to about 1/8 inch thick. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges. This crust will cradle all that delicious filling!
Step 3: Mix the Cranberries and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, combine the fresh cranberries with half of the granulated sugar. Toss them gently to coat. This step is essential because it helps draw out the tart juices from the cranberries, enhancing their flavor. Spread this mixture evenly over the pie crust, creating a beautiful base for your custard.
Step 4: Whisk the Custard Mixture
In another bowl, whisk together the remaining sugar, eggs, heavy cream, vanilla extract, salt, and ground cinnamon. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined. The eggs and cream are the stars here, giving the custard its rich, velvety texture. Make sure there are no lumps for a silky finish!
Step 5: Assemble the Pie
Now, it’s time to pour that luscious custard over the cranberries. Do this slowly and evenly, ensuring that the custard covers all the cranberries. This helps in achieving a uniform bake and ensures every bite is filled with that delightful flavor. You can gently shake the pie dish to help the custard settle.
Step 6: Bake the Pie
Place your pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You’ll know it’s done when the custard is set and the top is lightly golden. A slight jiggle in the center is okay; it will firm up as it cools. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly!
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for at least 30 minutes. This cooling time allows the custard to set completely. Serve it warm or chilled, and don’t forget to add a dollop of whipped cream on top for that extra touch of indulgence. Enjoy your Cranberry Custard Pie Delight!
Tips for Success
- Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor, but frozen works too—just thaw them first.
- Don’t rush the cooling process; it helps the custard set perfectly.
- For a sweeter pie, taste the cranberries before adding sugar and adjust accordingly.
- Experiment with spices like nutmeg for a unique twist on flavor.
- Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!
Equipment Needed
- 9-inch pie dish: A standard size for this recipe. If you don’t have one, a tart pan works too.
- Mixing bowls: Use two bowls—one for the cranberries and one for the custard. Any size will do!
- Whisk: Essential for mixing the custard. A fork can work in a pinch.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements. If you’re in a hurry, eyeballing can work too!
Variations of Cranberry Custard Pie Delight
- Nutty Crust: Swap the pre-made pie crust for a nut-based crust made from crushed almonds or pecans for a gluten-free option.
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of ginger or allspice to the custard mixture for an extra layer of warmth and flavor.
- Fruit Fusion: Mix in other fruits like blueberries or raspberries with the cranberries for a delightful berry medley.
- Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a plant-based twist.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled pie for a decadent finish that pairs beautifully with the tart cranberries.
Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Custard Pie Delight
- Pair with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a classic touch.
- Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
- Accompany with a warm cup of spiced chai or coffee to enhance the flavors.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few fresh cranberries for a festive look.
FAQs about Cranberry Custard Pie Delight
Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones. Just make sure to thaw them before mixing with sugar. This will help maintain the right texture in your Cranberry Custard Pie Delight.
How do I know when the pie is done baking?
Your pie is ready when the custard is set and the top is lightly golden. A slight jiggle in the center is normal; it will firm up as it cools. The aroma will also be a good indicator that it’s almost time to dig in!
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare your Cranberry Custard Pie Delight a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator after it cools. This makes it a perfect dessert for busy holiday gatherings!
What can I serve with this pie?
For a delightful experience, serve your pie with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A warm cup of spiced chai or coffee pairs beautifully, enhancing the flavors of the pie.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the pie?
Definitely! If you prefer a sweeter pie, feel free to adjust the sugar according to your taste. Just remember to taste the cranberries first, as their tartness can vary.
Final Thoughts
Creating this Cranberry Custard Pie Delight is more than just baking; it’s about crafting memories that linger long after the last slice is gone. The blend of tart cranberries and creamy custard brings a festive cheer that brightens any gathering. I love how this pie can be made ahead, allowing you to enjoy the moment with your loved ones. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, this pie is sure to be the star of the show. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the joy of baking, and let this delightful dessert bring smiles to your table!
Print
Cranberry Custard Pie Delight: A Festive Treat Unveiled!
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cranberry Custard Pie Delight is a festive dessert that combines the tartness of cranberries with a creamy custard filling, all encased in a flaky pie crust.
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pie crust
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cranberries and half of the sugar, then spread them evenly over the pie crust.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, remaining sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, salt, and cinnamon until smooth.
- Pour the custard mixture over the cranberries in the pie crust.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the custard is set and the top is lightly golden.
- Allow to cool before serving. Enjoy your Cranberry Custard Pie Delight!
Notes
- For a sweeter pie, adjust the sugar according to your taste.
- Serve with whipped cream for an extra treat.
- This pie can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
