For the Pie Crust ( optional, skip if using store bought )
1¼cupsall purpose flour
¼teaspoonsalt
½cup unsalted butter(cold and cubed)
3-4tablespoonwater(ice cold)
1 ½cups cranberries(fresh or frozen)
1cupgranulated sugar
Zest of 1 orange(zest)
2tablespoonsorange juice
1tablespooncornstarch
¼teaspoonsalt
1tablespoonunsalted butter(melted)
Other Ingredients
1store bought pie crust(if not making a homemade one)
Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream(optional, for serving)
Instructions
Make the Pie Crust Dough(optional step or skip if using store bough pie dough
Step 1: Prepare Your IngredientsStep 2: Mix the Flour and Salt. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt.Step 3: Cut in the Butter. Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized butter pieces.Step 4: Add Ice Water. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix with a fork or your hands just until the dough begins to come together. Be cautious not to overmix. You may not need all the water; stop when the dough holds together when squeezed.Step 5: Form the Dough5 Turn the dough out onto a clean, lightly floured surface. Gently knead it a few times to bring it together into a smooth ball. Be careful not to overwork the dough.Step 6: Chill the Dough. Flatten the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough relaxes the gluten and makes it easier to roll out.
Prepare the Pie Crust
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Roll out the pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges and crimp the edges decoratively.
Prepare the Cranberry Orange Filling
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange zest, orange juice, cornstarch, and salt. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Cook the Filling
Reduce the heat to low and let the cranberry mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cranberries have softened, and the filling has thickened. Stir occasionally.
Assemble the Pie
Pour the cranberry orange filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it out evenly. Drizzle the melted butter over the top.
Bake the Pie
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Cool and Serve
Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool to room temperature on a wire rack. This will allow the filling to set.
Once cooled, you can refrigerate the pie for a few hours or overnight to enhance the flavors.
Serve slices of Cranberry Orange Pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if desired.
Ingredients:Instructions:Step 1: Prepare Your IngredientsStep 2: Mix the Flour and Salt. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt.Step 3: Cut in the Butter3. Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized butter pieces.Step 4: Add Ice Water4. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix with a fork or your hands just until the dough begins to come together. Be cautious not to overmix. You may not need all the water; stop when the dough holds together when squeezed.Step 5: Form the Dough5. Turn the dough out onto a clean, lightly floured surface. Gently knead it a few times to bring it together into a smooth ball. Be careful not to overwork the dough.Step 6: Chill the Dough6. Flatten the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough relaxes the gluten and makes it easier to roll out.1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour½ teaspoon salt½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cubed3-4 tablespoons ice waterCube the cold butter and place it in the freezer for about 15 minutes before using. This ensures a flakier crust.
Notes
Fresh Cranberries: Using fresh cranberries ensures a vibrant and flavorful filling. You can find them in the produce section of your local grocery store during the fall and winter seasons.
Citrus Zest: The orange zest adds a delightful citrusy note to the pie, enhancing the overall taste. Be sure to use a microplane zester to get the zest without the bitter white pith.
Cornstarch Thickener: Cornstarch is used to thicken the cranberry orange filling, creating a luscious texture that holds together beautifully when sliced.
Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the pie crust dough before rolling it out helps to prevent it from becoming too soft and ensures a flaky crust.
Serve Warm or Cold: This pie can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it a versatile dessert for any occasion.
Garnish Options: For an extra touch of elegance, consider garnishing the pie with a dusting of powdered sugar or a few fresh cranberries on top.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the pie crust and the cranberry orange filling ahead of time and store them separately. Assemble the pie just before baking for the freshest results.
Serving Suggestions: Serve each slice of pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat.