Thanksgiving Cranberry Apple Pie With Lattice Crust

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What kind of recipe is it?

Thanksgiving Cranberry Apple Pie is a delightful dessert that combines the tangy sweetness of ripe apples and tart cranberries, creating a perfect balance of flavors.

This pie features a flaky, buttery crust that encases the juicy filling, making it a holiday staple that will impress family and friends alike. Ideal for those who love traditional Thanksgiving desserts with a twist, it brings warmth and festive cheer to any gathering.

This recipe is perfect for home bakers looking to elevate their dessert game during the holiday season.

Ingredients

This table provides a clear overview of all the ingredients and their required quantities for preparing Thanksgiving Cranberry Apple Pie.

Cooking Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 220 °C (425 °F) and position the oven rack in the lower third to guarantee even cooking.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 ½ cups (312 g) all-purpose flour, ¾ cup + 2 tbsp (170 g) granulated sugar, ½ cup (100 g) brown sugar, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, ½ tsp ground nutmeg, and 1 tsp salt. Whisk thoroughly to mix the dry ingredients.
3. Cut 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter into small cubes and add to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually stir in 6–8 tbsp (90–120 ml) ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough holds together without being sticky. Avoid overmixing.
5. Divide the dough in half, shape each part into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to rest.
6. While the dough chills, prepare the filling. Peel, core, and slice 4 medium Granny Smith apples. In a separate bowl, toss the apple slices with 2 cups (210 g) fresh cranberries, ¾ cup + 2 tbsp (170 g) granulated sugar, and 1 tbsp lemon juice. Set aside to macerate for about 30 minutes, allowing the juices to blend.
7. Roll out one disk of the chilled dough on a floured surface to fit a 23 cm (9-inch) pie dish. Press the dough gently into the dish, making sure to cover the bottom and sides without stretching.
8. Pour the apple and cranberry mixture into the dough-lined pie dish, guaranteeing it’s evenly distributed. Roll out the second disk of dough and place it over the top. Trim and fold the edges, then crimp to seal.
9. For the egg wash, whisk together 1 large egg and 1 tbsp milk in a small bowl. Brush the egg wash over the top crust to enhance color and sheen during baking.
10. Cut small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. This will prevent the pie from bubbling over and help achieve a flaky texture.
11. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake in the preheated oven for 40–50 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Check for doneness by observing a golden color and fragrance of spiced fruit.
12. Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. This resting time helps the filling set properly.
13. Serve the pie warm or at room temperature, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for enhanced flavor.
14. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covering with plastic wrap to keep the crust from becoming soggy.

Variations

• Cranberry Pumpkin Pie: Replace the apple filling with 1 can (425 g) pumpkin puree mixed with 3/4 cup (150 g) brown sugar, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp ground ginger, and 1/4 tsp ground cloves for a seasonal twist.
• Vegan Apple Cranberry Pie: Substitute 1 cup (226 g) of unsalted butter with 1 cup (240 ml) coconut oil or vegan butter; replace the egg wash with a mixture of 2 tbsp almond milk and 1 tbsp maple syrup.
• Gluten-Free Cranberry Apple Pie: Utilize 2 ½ cups (312 g) gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour and add 1 tsp xanthan gum to maintain the texture.
• Spiced Walnut Cranberry Pie: Incorporate 1 cup (120 g) chopped walnuts into the apple and cranberry filling for added crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing the pie’s richness.

Tips on plating and presentation

Want your Thanksgiving Cranberry Apple Pie to look as delightful as it tastes? Start by using a beautiful pie dish to showcase that lovely lattice crust.

Dust the top with powdered sugar for a snowy touch and add a dollop of whipped cream on the side for contrast. Fresh cranberries or apple slices make great garnishes, adding color and charm to your presentation!

What other dishes can I pair it with?

When planning your Thanksgiving menu, it’s important to contemplate dishes that complement the tart sweetness of your Cranberry Apple Pie.

I love pairing it with savory roasted turkey, creamy mashed potatoes, and sage stuffing. A side of green bean almondine adds a fresh touch.

For balance, I also serve a bright salad with a zesty vinaigrette, enhancing the overall flavor experience.

What drinks can I pair it with?

To elevate your Thanksgiving Cranberry Apple Pie, consider pairing it with drinks that enhance its flavors. A crisp, chilled Riesling complements the pie’s sweetness beautifully.

If you prefer non-alcoholic options, spiced apple cider warms the palate delightfully.

For a festive twist, a sparkling cranberry mocktail adds a rejuvenating touch.

These choices not only enhance the pie but also elevate your entire Thanksgiving feast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Prepare the Pie in Advance for Thanksgiving?

You can definitely prepare the pie in advance! I often make it a day or two earlier. Just store it covered in the fridge, and pop it in the oven before serving for freshness.

How Should I Store Leftover Cranberry Apple Pie?

I store leftover pie in an airtight container in the fridge. If I want it to last longer, I’ll freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. That way, I can savor it later!

What Is the Best Way to Reheat the Pie?

I usually preheat my oven to 350°F, then place the pie on a baking sheet. I cover it with foil and reheat for about 20 minutes, ensuring it stays warm without getting too dry.

Can I Use Frozen Cranberries for This Recipe?

Absolutely, I use frozen cranberries in this recipe all the time! Just remember to adjust any sugar if they’re tart. They’ll thaw and release moisture, but it doesn’t impact the flavor. Enjoy your baking!

What Alternatives Can I Use for Granulated Sugar?

I often swap granulated sugar with alternatives like honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar. Just remember to adjust the amounts, as these sweeteners vary in sweetness and moisture content compared to regular sugar.