Name: Irresistibly Delightful Sweet-Tart Cranberry Pie to Impress
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 4 cups Fresh Cranberries (Frozen cranberries can be used as an alternative.); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Adjust based on taste preferences.); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (Increase for a more pronounced flavor.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Use pure vanilla for best results.); 1 pie crust Pie Crust (Use store-bought or homemade, chilled before baking.)

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As the holiday season approaches, my kitchen fills with the comforting scents of cinnamon and vanilla, wrapping me in a warm embrace. This delightful sweet-tart cranberry pie, with its striking ruby red filling, captures the essence of festive gatherings and cozy evenings. I discovered this recipe during a rainy afternoon, inspired by the tart cranberries lingering in my fridge, and it’s quickly become a cherished staple. The buttery, flaky crust provides the perfect canvas for the vibrant cranberries, while a hint of cinnamon elevates the flavors to new heights. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply treating yourself, this pie promises to be a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone reaching for another slice. With just a few simple ingredients and optional substitutions, you’ll find this recipe as versatile as it is delicious. Get ready to create a show-stopping dessert that balances sweet and tart in the most delightful way!

Why Is Delightful Sweet-Tart Cranberry Pie a Must-Try?

Simplicity at Its Best: This recipe features easy preparation steps that make it accessible for bakers of all levels, whether you’re a novice or an experienced chef.

Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh cranberries, warm cinnamon, and vanilla creates a vibrant and mouthwatering filling that captivates the senses.

Festive Appeal: Its striking ruby red color makes it the perfect centerpiece for holiday gatherings, sure to impress family and friends alike.

Versatile Options: You can easily swap fresh cranberries for frozen ones, making it a year-round dessert without sacrificing taste. Looking for more flavor combinations? Try adding orange zest or apples for a delightful twist, similar to my Delightful Roasted Sweet Butternut Squash recipe!

Crowd-Pleaser: With its irresistible balance of sweet and tart, this pie is sure to be a favorite at any celebration, leaving everyone coming back for seconds.

Delightful Sweet-Tart Cranberry Pie Ingredients

For the Filling
• Fresh Cranberries – Provide the essential tartness and vibrant color that make this delightful sweet-tart cranberry pie shine; frozen cranberries may be used as a convenient alternative.
• Granulated Sugar – Enhances sweetness to balance the tart cranberries; adjust according to your taste preferences for that perfect sweet-tart harmony.
• Cinnamon – Adds warmth and a hint of spice to the filling; increase for a more pronounced flavor that complements the cranberries beautifully.
• Vanilla Extract – Deepens the flavor profile; using pure vanilla will give the best results for this luscious pie.

For the Crust
• Pie Crust – You can use either a store-bought or a homemade pie crust; ensure it is chilled prior to baking for that flaky texture everyone loves.

Feel free to mix and match ingredients to make this delightful sweet-tart cranberry pie your own!

How to Make Delightful Sweet-Tart Cranberry Pie

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even baking and achieve that perfect golden crust.
Prepare Pie Crust: Roll out your chilled pie crust and gently fit it into a pie dish. Crimp the edges as desired, creating a beautiful border for your pie.
Mix Filling: In a large bowl, combine the fresh cranberries, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla. Stir until the cranberries are thoroughly coated, creating a flavorful blend.
Fill Crust: Spoon the cranberry mixture into your prepared crust, making sure to mound it high to showcase those vibrant jewels.
Bake Pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the crust is beautifully golden brown.
Cool & Serve: Once baked, let the pie cool before slicing. Serve it warm or at room temperature, ideally paired with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra delight.

Optional: Top with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Delightful Sweet-Tart Cranberry Pie?

Indulging in a slice of this vibrant cranberry pie evokes warmth and joy, making it perfect for thoughtful pairings that enhance the experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of rich vanilla ice cream adds creamy contrast to the pie’s tartness, making each bite feel like a celebration.
Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, a dollop of whipped cream elevates the delicious flavor of the pie, adding an airy texture to your dessert.
Spiced Apple Cider: A warm mug of spiced apple cider complements the fall-inspired flavors, creating a cozy atmosphere for your gathering.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle some chocolate sauce on top for a sweet twist. The combination of tart and chocolate is a dessert lover’s delight.
Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of crunchy granola serves as a delightful garnish, adding texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft pie filling.
Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea complements the pie’s sweetness and cuts through the richness, enhancing your dessert experience.
Cheese Plate: Pairing with sharp cheddar or creamy brie adds a savory element, creating a sophisticated balance between sweet and savory flavors.
Cranberry Sorbet: For a refreshing option, a scoop of homemade or store-bought cranberry sorbet mirrors the pie’s flavor and provides a cool contrast.

Delightful Sweet-Tart Cranberry Pie Variations

Customize your delightful experience with these fun and flavorful twists that will awaken your senses!

Citrus Zest: Add the zest of one orange or lemon to the filling for a refreshing citrus note that brightens each bite. The… citrus aroma wonderfully complements the tangy cranberries.
Apple Addition: Mix in one cup of finely chopped apples before baking. This adds natural sweetness and a delightful texture, making each slice even more tempting.
Nutmeg Twist: Sprinkle in half a teaspoon of nutmeg along with the cinnamon for a warm, aromatic flavor that tingles your taste buds. The combination creates an inviting scent that wafts through your kitchen.
Gingersnap Crust: Use crushed gingersnap cookies instead of traditional pie crust for a spicy, sweet base. It pairs beautifully with the tart cranberries and creates a unique dessert experience.
Bourbon Kick: Stir in a tablespoon of bourbon or whiskey for a rich, deeper flavor. This lively twist enhances the pie’s overall complexity and adds warmth for those cool evenings.
Dried Fruits: Mix in a quarter cup of dried cranberries or raisins into the filling for additional sweetness and chewy texture. This unexpected addition makes every bite even more delightful.
Spicy Flair: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat that contrasts wonderfully with the sweetness. It brings a surprising element that will definitely intrigue your guests.
Chia Seed Boost: For an extra nutritional boost, add a tablespoon of chia seeds to the filling. They’ll help thicken the mixture while providing a healthy dose of omega-3s without altering the taste.

Expert Tips for Delightful Sweet-Tart Cranberry Pie

Cranberry Coating: Ensure cranberries are well-coated with sugar and cinnamon before filling the crust for maximum flavor.
Frozen Cranberries Tip: If using frozen cranberries, rinse and add them directly to the mix without thawing; this maintains their texture.
Cooling is Key: Let your pie cool completely before slicing to help the filling set properly, ensuring clean, beautiful slices.
Adjust Sweetness: Taste the filling mixture before baking; feel free to adjust sugar levels based on your preference for tartness.
Crust Handling: For a flaky crust, keep the pie crust chilled and avoid overworking the dough to prevent it from becoming tough.

Storage Tips for Delightful Sweet-Tart Cranberry Pie

Room Temperature: Allow the pie to cool completely before covering; it can be left at room temperature for up to 2 days, but make sure it’s covered loosely to maintain moisture.
Fridge: Store leftover delightful sweet-tart cranberry pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days; this keeps it fresh and delicious for subsequent servings.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container; they can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: To enjoy your pie warm, reheat slices in the microwave for about 30 seconds, or place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes until warmed through.

Make Ahead Options

These delightful sweet-tart cranberry pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the pie crust and filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply roll out your chilled pie crust and fit it into a pie dish, then refrigerate until ready to use. For the filling, mix together the fresh or frozen cranberries, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, spoon the prepared filling into the crust, mound it high to showcase those gorgeous cranberries, and bake as directed. This approach ensures that when you’re ready to celebrate, your pie will still taste just as delicious with minimal effort!

Delightful Sweet-Tart Cranberry Pie Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best cranberries for my pie?
Absolutely! Fresh cranberries should be bright and glossy, with no dark spots. When selecting frozen cranberries, opt for those that are still firm and not thawed, as this ensures they maintain their integrity during baking.

What is the best way to store leftover cranberry pie?
To keep your delightful sweet-tart cranberry pie fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It’s best to let the pie cool completely before covering to avoid moisture buildup that can make the crust soggy.

Can I freeze the cranberry pie for later?
Certainly! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the slices overnight in the fridge before serving. For a warm treat, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes.

What should I do if my cranberry pie filling is too runny?
If your filling becomes too runny, one trick is to add an additional tablespoon of cornstarch to the filling mixture prior to baking. Make sure to mix it well with the sugar and spices to help thicken the filling as it bakes. Also, letting the pie cool completely after baking allows some of the liquid to evaporate, thickening the filling further.

Does this pie contain common allergens?
Yes, this delightful sweet-tart cranberry pie contains gluten from the pie crust and may include dairy if using a butter-based crust. Always check your pie crust ingredients if you’re preparing this for someone with allergies or dietary restrictions. For gluten-free options, use a gluten-free pie crust, and be sure to verify that sugar and vanilla extract are safe for any specific dietary needs.

Can I use other fruits in this cranberry pie recipe?
Very much! You can add ingredients like chopped apples or sliced pears for additional sweetness and texture. Mixing in a bit of orange zest also enhances the flavor profile, creating a delightful variation to this classic recipe.