Introduction
There’s something truly magical about the combination of tart cranberries and creamy custard nestled in a buttery pie crust. This Cranberry Custard Pie is not just a delightful dessert; it’s a warm hug for your taste buds! Perfect for festive gatherings or cozy family dinners, it encapsulates the essence of home-baked comfort. Whether you’re a lifelong baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you through creating a pie that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups half-and-half
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pre-baked pie crust
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cranberries, ½ cup of granulated sugar, cornstarch, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Stir gently but thoroughly until the cranberries are well coated with the mixture.
- Spread the cranberry mixture evenly across the bottom of the pre-baked pie crust, allowing each tart berry to shine through.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the half-and-half, the remaining ½ cup of sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and combined, creating a silky custard.
- Carefully pour the custard mixture over the cranberries in the pie crust, letting it seep through, enveloping the cranberries in delight.
- Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is a beautiful, light golden brown.
- Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature. This step is essential for letting the flavors meld and the custard set perfectly.
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a dash of almond extract to the custard mixture. If you prefer a sweeter pie, adjust the sugar to your taste. Serve this pie chilled or at room temperature, with a scoop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream on the side for an even more indulgent treat!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe features simple yet effective techniques that elevate the basic pie-making process. Pre-baking the pie crust ensures that it remains crisp and doesn’t become soggy from the custard filling. The process of coating the cranberries with sugar and cornstarch helps to balance their tartness while thickening the juices released during baking. And whisking the custard mixture until smooth is crucial for achieving that rich, creamy texture that contrasts so beautifully with the fruit.
FAQ
Can I use frozen cranberries? Yes, frozen cranberries work wonderfully in this recipe! Just toss them in the sugar mixture without thawing.
How do I know when the custard is set? The custard should be firm to the touch but still jiggly in the center. It will continue to set as it cools.
Can I make this pie in advance? Absolutely! This pie can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Conclusion
This Cranberry Custard Pie is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and a memory-making experience. The blend of tart cranberries and creamy custard is a timeless combination that captivates all who take a bite. Whether it graces your holiday table or becomes a family favorite year-round, this pie is sure to be cherished. So gather up those ingredients and let your kitchen fill with the delightful aromas of home baking!