The kitchen filled with a sweet, tangy aroma as I poured the rich, creamy filling into my pie crust—a moment that felt almost magical. This Cranberry Orange Custard Pie is more than just a holiday dessert; it’s a festive centerpiece that effortlessly captures the spirit of celebrations. With its stunning balance of creamy custard and vibrant cranberry flavor, this pie not only pleases the palate but also offers a fun twist on traditional desserts. Plus, it’s a make-ahead delight, allowing you to savor the holiday cheer without last-minute stress. Just picture your loved ones gathered around the table, their eyes lighting up at this vibrant treat. Are you ready to dazzle your guests with this irresistible pie?
Why is this Cranberry Custard Pie special?
Holiday Cheer: This Cranberry Orange Custard Pie brings festivity right to your table, making it the perfect showstopper for gatherings.
Easy to Make Ahead: You can prepare this pie 1-2 days in advance, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones.
Unique Flavor Combination: The sweet yet tart cranberries paired with bright orange notes offer a delightful twist that stands apart from traditional desserts.
Texture Triumph: Each slice reveals a smooth custard filling nestled in a flaky crust, creating a satisfying contrast that everyone will love.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: The vibrant colors and delicious flavors are sure to impress guests of all ages, making it an instant favorite at any celebration.
If you’re in the mood for more festive flavor, consider trying variations like Cranberry Brie Stuffed chicken or even a Sweet Potato Cranberry dish!
Cranberry Orange Custard Pie Ingredients
For the Crust
• Refrigerated Pie Crust – Provides a flaky base for your pie; feel free to use a homemade deep 9-inch pie shell for a personal touch.
For the Filling
• Cranberries (4 cups) – This main ingredient brings a tart and fruity flavor, perfect for a holiday dessert; both fresh or frozen cranberries work well.
• Orange Juice (1 cup) – Adds brightness and sweetness to the filling, balancing the tartness of the cranberries; freshly squeezed juice is recommended for the best taste.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk (1 can, 14 oz) – Adds creaminess and sweetness to the custard; coconut condensed milk can be used for a dairy-free option.
• Egg Yolks (6 large) – Essential for a rich and smooth custard texture; ensure they’re at room temperature for optimal blending.
• Orange Zest (1 tbsp) – Enriches the orange flavor in the pie; the zest from about 2 oranges will do the trick.
Create a beautiful Cranberry Orange Custard Pie and bring festive cheer to your gatherings!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for cranberry orange custard pie
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). This ensures that your pie will bake evenly and beautifully. While the oven warms, gather your baking tools, including a rolling pin and a 9-inch pie dish, to streamline the process.
Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust
Roll out the refrigerated pie crust into a 12-inch circle on a lightly floured surface. Carefully transfer the crust to the 9-inch pie dish, pressing it gently into the bottom and up the sides. Trim any excess crust hanging over the edges to maintain a neat appearance.
Step 3: Par-bake the Crust
To achieve a flaky pie crust, line the dough with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, removing the weights after 10 minutes. Bake for another 10 minutes until the crust is lightly golden.
Step 4: Cook the Cranberries
In a medium saucepan, combine the 4 cups of cranberries with 1 cup of orange juice. Cook over medium heat for about 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally until most cranberries burst and release their juices. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture is bubbly and fragrant.
Step 5: Puree the Mixture
Once the cranberries are cooked, transfer the mixture to a blender or use an immersion blender for convenience. Puree until smooth, then strain through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl to extract about 2 cups of cranberry juice. This step ensures a silky filling for your cranberry orange custard pie.
Step 6: Make the Custard Filling
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, 6 large egg yolks, prepared cranberry juice, and 1 tablespoon of orange zest. Beat until the mixture is thick and well combined, creating a rich and creamy custard filling that beautifully balances tartness and sweetness.
Step 7: Fill the Crust
Pour the custard filling into the pre-baked pie crust, smoothing it evenly with a spatula. Ensure it’s well-distributed to avoid any uneven texture as it bakes. You’ll see the vibrant color of the filling peeking through the crust, which adds to the holiday allure of the cranberry orange custard pie.
Step 8: Bake the Pie
Carefully place the pie in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The custard should be set with only a slight wobble in the center when gently shaken. Keep an eye on the edges of the crust so they don’t darken too quickly; you can cover them with foil if necessary.
Step 9: Cool and Chill
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for about 2 hours. This cooling period helps the custard to properly set. After cooling, refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to enhance the flavors and texture.
Step 10: Serve and Garnish
Before serving your beautiful cranberry orange custard pie, consider adding decorative garnishes like sweetened whipped cream or fresh cranberries for an elegant touch. Slice into the pie and savor the delightful combination of creamy custard and vibrant cranberries, perfect for any holiday gathering.
How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Orange Custard Pie
Fridge: Store the cranberry orange custard pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps preserve the creamy texture and vibrant flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pie for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Thawing: To enjoy the pie after freezing, transfer it to the fridge 1 day before serving to thaw slowly. This keeps the custard smooth and delicious.
Reheating: If you prefer your pie at room temperature, let it sit out for about 30 minutes before serving. Avoid reheating in the oven, as it may alter the texture of the custard.
Make Ahead Options
These Cranberry Orange Custard Pies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the pie 1-2 days ahead, allowing the custard to set and enhance its flavors. Begin by making the crust and if you’re short on time, par-baking it can be done up to 24 hours in advance; simply keep it covered at room temperature. Prepare the cranberry filling and custard mix a day ahead, refrigerating the mixture until you’re ready to fill the crust. When it’s time to serve, just bake the pie and let it cool—this way, you’ll have a stunning dessert ready with minimal effort, ensuring it’s just as delicious as if made fresh!
Expert Tips for Cranberry Orange Custard Pie
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Cover Edges: When par-baking, cover the crust edges with foil if they start darkening too quickly, preventing burnt edges.
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Cool Properly: Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours before refrigerating. This step is crucial for proper custard setting.
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Smooth Puree: For a silky filling, use an immersion blender to create a smooth cranberry puree. It helps integrate the flavors beautifully in your cranberry orange custard pie.
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Room Temperature Yolks: Always use egg yolks at room temperature. It enhances the custard’s creaminess and helps achieve that luxurious texture.
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Flavor Infusion: For extra warmth, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling; they complement the fruitiness nicely without overpowering it.
What to Serve with Cranberry Orange Custard Pie
A delightful holiday dessert deserves some equally scrumptious accompaniments to elevate your dining experience.
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Whipped Cream:
A dollop of fluffy, sweetened whipped cream adds lightness that beautifully balances the rich custard filling. -
Cranberry Sauce:
A side of homemade cranberry sauce complements the pie’s flavors while adding a bright tartness that enhances the holiday spirit. -
Spiced Nuts:
Roasted spiced nuts provide a crunchy contrast, perfect for adding a savory element to the sweet pie. -
Fresh Fruit Salad:
A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits refreshes the palate and offers a burst of natural sweetness to balance the flavors. -
Rosemary Lemonade:
This fragrant drink offers a zesty, herbal twist that perfectly matches the tartness of the pie, making it a fun pairing to sip alongside. -
Dark Chocolate Shavings:
Sprinkling dark chocolate on top brings a rich, slightly bitter dimension that complements the sweet custard splendidly. -
Vanilla Ice Cream:
A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream creates a luscious combination, melting atop the warm pie and enhancing every bite.
Each of these delightful pairings will create a memorable dining experience, ensuring your cranberry orange custard pie steals the show this holiday season!
Variations & Substitutions for cranberry orange custard pie
Feel free to sprinkle your own creativity into this recipe—there’s room for delightful twists!
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut condensed milk in place of sweetened condensed milk for a rich, dairy-free filling that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
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Berry Twist: Substitute half the cranberries with raspberries or blueberries for a delightful berry medley that brightens up the taste!
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Spiced Infusion: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm, cozy flavor that evokes memories of holiday gatherings.
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Nutty Crunch: Top the pie with crushed pecans or walnuts before baking for an added texture contrast that will be universally loved.
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Infused Citrus: Zest a lemon along with the orange for an extra citrus zing! The combination of citrus flavors will invigorate your taste buds.
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Choco-Cran Surprise: Stir in a handful of semi-sweet chocolate chips into the filling for a delightful surprise that marries tart cranberries with sweet chocolate.
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Ginger Kick: Mix in 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger for a spicy twist that complements the cranberries beautifully. It adds a unique flavor dimension!
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Serving Suggestions: Pair each slice with a dollop of sweetened whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. And if you want to explore more festive flavors, don’t miss out on creating Pecan Pie Crescent rolls for a tasty treat alongside your pie!
Cranberry Orange Custard Pie Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best cranberries for my pie?
Absolutely! Fresh cranberries should be firm and bright in color. Avoid those with dark spots or softness, as these may be overripe or spoiled. If you’re using frozen cranberries, ensure they are not clumped together and are free from ice crystals, indicating they’re in good shape.
What’s the best way to store my cranberry orange custard pie?
Very! You can store the pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the creamy texture and vibrant flavor. If you’re not serving it right away, cover it with plastic wrap to keep it fresh.
Can I freeze my cranberry orange custard pie? How?
Sure thing! To freeze it, first let the pie cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, move the pie to the fridge for 24 hours to thaw gently, preserving its creamy goodness.
What should I do if my custard doesn’t set properly?
No worries! If your custard appears too runny after baking, it might need a bit more time in the oven. Be sure to bake until the edges are set and the center has just a slight jiggle. If it still doesn’t set, it may be helpful to allow it to cool completely as refrigeration improves the thickness of the custard.
Are there any allergies I should be aware of with this recipe?
Excellent question! This recipe contains egg and dairy (sweetened condensed milk), which may not be suitable for individuals with egg or dairy allergies. If you need a dairy-free option, you can substitute sweetened condensed milk with coconut condensed milk; just make sure to check labels for allergen information.
Can I make this cranberry orange custard pie ahead of time?
Yes, absolutely! You can prepare this delightful pie 1-2 days in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator after cooling, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, and serve it chilled for the best taste at your holiday gathering.
Irresistible Cranberry Orange Custard Pie for Holiday Cheer
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Roll out the refrigerated pie crust into a 12-inch circle on a lightly floured surface and transfer it to the pie dish.
- Line the crust with parchment and fill with weights. Par-bake for 20 minutes, removing weights after 10 minutes.
- Cook cranberries with orange juice in a saucepan for 4-5 minutes until cranberries burst.
- Puree the cooked cranberries and strain to extract about 2 cups of cranberry juice.
- Whisk together sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, cranberry juice, and orange zest in a bowl.
- Pour the custard filling into the pre-baked pie crust, smoothing it evenly.
- Bake the pie for 30-35 minutes until the custard is set with a slight wobble in the center.
- Let the pie cool on a wire rack for about 2 hours and then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- Before serving, consider adding garnishes like whipped cream or fresh cranberries.
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