Description
This Cranberry Orange Pie is a delightful combination of tart fresh cranberries and bright orange flavors, encased in a flaky double pie crust. The filling is thickened with a blend of flour and cornstarch, and subtly spiced with cinnamon, making it a perfect dessert for fall and holiday seasons. The buttery crust topped with a glossy egg wash and a sprinkle of coarse sugar delivers both a beautiful presentation and a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
Filling
- 5 cups (about 15 oz) fresh cranberries
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1 1/2 tbsp orange zest
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 tbsp all purpose flour
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, cubed
Crust and Topping
- 2 pie crusts, store bought or homemade
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Optional: coarse sugar to garnish
Instructions
- Chop Cranberries: Place half of the cranberries in a food processor or blender and pulse a few times until they are coarsely chopped but not pureed.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the coarsely chopped cranberries, the remaining whole cranberries, orange juice, and orange zest. Stir to combine thoroughly.
- Prepare Dry Mix: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the sugar, all purpose flour, cornstarch, and cinnamon until evenly mixed.
- Create Filling: Add the dry ingredients to the large bowl with the cranberries and stir well until all berries are evenly coated with the mixture.
- Prepare Bottom Crust: Press one pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan, trimming any overhanging dough so it fits neatly inside. Poke the bottom crust a few times with a fork to prevent bubbling during baking.
- Add Filling: Pour the cranberry filling evenly into the prepared pie crust and dot the surface with the cubed unsalted butter, distributing it across the filling.
- Cover with Top Crust: Lay the second pie crust over the filling. Seal the edges by pressing them together with a little water, then trim any excess dough so it sits flush with the pan edges.
- Apply Egg Wash and Garnish: Beat the egg and brush it evenly over the top crust. Sprinkle coarse sugar over the crust for a sparkling, crunchy finish.
- Bake the Pie: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pie in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown and the filling is bubbling vigorously, indicating it is fully set.
- Cool Before Serving: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely, ensuring the filling sets properly and slices cleanly before serving.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh, firm cranberries.
- You can make your own pie crust or purchase a quality store-bought one.
- The coarse sugar on top adds a delightful crunch and aesthetic appeal but is optional.
- Letting the pie cool fully helps the filling to thicken, preventing it from being runny when sliced.
- If gluten-free is needed, substitute the all purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative and use a gluten-free pie crust.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American