Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is elegant, well-balanced, and surprisingly easy to prepare. The contrast between tart cranberries and creamy custard makes it refreshing, while the smooth texture feels indulgent without being heavy. It is perfect for holidays and make-ahead entertaining.
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cranberry custard pie – Tart & Creamy Dessert
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A tart and creamy cranberry custard pie with a smooth vanilla custard filling balanced by bright cranberries, baked in a flaky crust for a festive dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread cranberries evenly over the bottom of the unbaked pie crust.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Whisk in heavy cream, milk, vanilla extract, salt, and flour until fully combined.
- Carefully pour the custard mixture over the cranberries.
- Place the pie on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 45–50 minutes until the custard is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
- Remove from the oven and cool completely.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired.
Notes
- The pie will firm up more as it cools.
- Frozen cranberries can be used without thawing.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Pie crust
Creates a crisp, buttery base that supports the creamy filling.
Fresh cranberries
Provide bold tartness, color, and seasonal flavor.
Granulated sugar
Balances the natural acidity of the cranberries.
Eggs
Form the structure of the custard filling.
Heavy cream
Creates a rich, silky custard texture.
Milk
Lightens the custard while keeping it smooth.
Vanilla extract
Adds warmth and depth to the custard flavor.
Salt
Enhances sweetness and balances flavors.
All-purpose flour or cornstarch
Helps thicken the custard gently.
Powdered sugar
Used for optional finishing and presentation.
Directions
Begin by preheating the oven and preparing the pie crust in a pie dish. Arrange the fresh cranberries evenly over the bottom of the crust.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs and granulated sugar until smooth and slightly pale. Add heavy cream, milk, vanilla extract, salt, and flour or cornstarch, whisking until fully combined and smooth.
Carefully pour the custard mixture over the cranberries, allowing them to distribute naturally. Place the pie in the oven and bake until the custard is set around the edges with a slight jiggle in the center.
Remove from the oven and allow the pie to cool completely. Refrigerate until fully chilled for best texture. Dust lightly with powdered sugar before serving if desired.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
Serves 8
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45–50 minutes
Cooling and chilling time: 2–3 hours
Total time: about 3 hours 5 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store the pie covered in the refrigerator for up to four days. This dessert is best served chilled or slightly cool. Reheating is not recommended, as it can affect the custard texture.
Variations and Customizations
Orange Cranberry Custard Pie
Add orange zest for citrus brightness.
Almond Custard Version
Replace vanilla with almond extract.
Crumb-Topped Cranberry Custard Pie
Add a light streusel topping before baking.
Coconut Custard Twist
Replace part of the cream with coconut milk.
Sweetened Cranberry Layer
Toss cranberries lightly in sugar before adding.
Mini Custard Pies
Bake in tart pans for individual servings.
Gluten-Free Version
Use a gluten-free pie crust.
Spiced Holiday Pie
Add nutmeg or cinnamon to the custard.
Honey-Sweetened Custard
Replace some sugar with honey.
Vanilla Bean Custard Pie
Use vanilla bean paste for deeper flavor.
FAQs
Is this pie very tart?
It is pleasantly tart but balanced by the creamy custard.
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, do not thaw them before using.
Does the custard set fully?
Yes, once chilled, it slices cleanly.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, it is ideal for making a day in advance.
Should I blind bake the crust?
It is optional but helps prevent sogginess.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, adjust slightly based on taste preference.
What texture should the center have?
Soft and creamy, not liquid.
Can I freeze cranberry custard pie?
Freezing is not recommended due to custard texture.
What pairs well with this pie?
Lightly sweetened whipped cream works beautifully.
Is this good for holidays?
Yes, it is festive, elegant, and refreshing.
Conclusion
Cranberry Custard Pie is a beautifully balanced dessert that combines tart, vibrant cranberries with a smooth, creamy custard filling. Light yet indulgent, it offers a refreshing alternative to heavier desserts while still feeling comforting and festive. Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or make-ahead treats, this pie is a timeless recipe that delivers elegance and flavor in every slice.
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