Mom’s Apple Cranberry Pie: A Perfect Holiday Dessert

Introduction

Nothing says home like the aroma of a freshly baked apple pie, and when you add tart cranberries to the mix, it becomes even more special. Mom’s Apple Cranberry Pie is a delightful combination of sweet apples, tangy cranberries, and warm spices, all wrapped in a buttery, flaky crust.

This pie is perfect for holiday gatherings, Thanksgiving, or any time you crave a comforting, homemade dessert. In this article, we’ll walk you through the recipe, share expert baking tips, and answer common questions to help you bake the perfect pie.

Ingredients

For the Pie Filling:

4 cups apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and sliced
1½ cups fresh or frozen cranberries
¾ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup brown sugar
2 tbsp cornstarch
1 tsp cinnamon
½ tsp nutmeg
¼ tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp butter, cut into small pieces

For the Pie Crust:

2½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp sugar
6-8 tbsp ice water

For the Egg Wash:

1 egg
1 tbsp milk

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Pie Crust

In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt.
Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or food processor until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough holds together.
Divide into two discs, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, combine apples, cranberries, sugars, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, vanilla, and lemon juice. Toss well and let sit for 15 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Roll out one dough disc on a floured surface and place it in a 9-inch pie pan.
Pour in the apple-cranberry filling and dot with butter.
Roll out the second crust and place it over the filling. Trim and crimp the edges, then cut a few slits for steam to escape.

Step 4: Bake the Pie

Brush the crust with egg wash and sprinkle with sugar.
Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly.
Let cool for at least 2 hours before slicing.

Baking Tips

Use a mix of apples for the best flavor and texture.
Chill the dough to ensure a flaky crust.
Cover the edges with foil if they brown too quickly.
Let the pie cool completely before slicing to allow the filling to set.

FAQs

1. Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes! Bake the pie up to 2 days in advance and store it at room temperature or in the fridge.

2. Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes, but soak them in warm water for 15 minutes to rehydrate.

3. How do I store leftover pie?

Keep it covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

4. Can I freeze the pie?

Yes! Freeze the unbaked pie for up to 3 months and bake from frozen, adding extra time.

5. What’s the best way to reheat apple cranberry pie?

Warm slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or in the microwave for 30 seconds.

Final Thoughts

Mom’s Apple Cranberry Pie is a must-try dessert that brings warmth and nostalgia with every bite. With its sweet-tart filling and buttery crust, this pie is perfect for any occasion. Bake one today and enjoy a slice of homemade comfort!

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