There’s something magical about the holidays—or even a simple weekend—that calls for a dessert that’s both comforting and a little unexpected. Enter the Cranberry Orange Custard Pie: a delicate, creamy custard pie infused with bright citrus notes and dotted with tart cranberries. This dessert is a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds, with its vibrant red berries contrasting beautifully against a silky custard nestled in a golden, flaky crust.
I still remember the first time I made this pie for a family gathering. The aroma of oranges mingling with baking custard filled the kitchen, drawing everyone in before it even came out of the oven. The combination of sweet and tart, creamy and zesty, made it an instant favorite. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping holiday dessert, a refreshing change from chocolate, or simply a cozy treat for yourself, this pie has it all.
Recipe Overview
Cranberry Orange Custard Pie is a luscious, custard-filled pie that marries the bright tang of oranges with the tartness of cranberries. Set in a buttery pie crust, this dessert is smooth, rich, and festive, making it perfect for holiday celebrations or any special occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, it’s an easy-to-make dessert that feels impressive but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients & Instructions
Here’s everything you need for a perfectly balanced, creamy custard pie.
Ingredients
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries (halved if large)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- ¼ cup orange juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pie Crust
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the unbaked pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish, crimping the edges for a classic look. Scatter the cranberries and orange zest evenly over the bottom of the crust. The cranberries add a vibrant color and tart flavor that balances the sweet custard beautifully.
Tip: If using frozen cranberries, you don’t need to thaw them—they’ll bake perfectly in the custard.
2. Make the Custard
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until smooth and slightly frothy. Gradually add heavy cream, whole milk, orange juice, vanilla extract, flour, and salt, whisking until the mixture is fully combined and silky.
Pro Tip: Sift the flour before adding it to the custard to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth texture.
3. Assemble the Pie
Pour the custard mixture over the cranberries in the pie crust, spreading it evenly. The custard should just cover the berries, creating a beautiful, layered effect once baked.
4. Bake the Pie
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the custard is set but still slightly wobbly in the center. The edges may puff slightly and turn golden brown—this is a good sign that it’s perfectly baked.
Remove from the oven and let the pie cool to room temperature. For best results, refrigerate for at least an hour before serving. This allows the custard to firm up and the flavors to meld beautifully.
Tip: A gentle wiggle in the center is okay; the custard will continue to set as it cools.
Cooking Tips & Variations
This pie is simple yet versatile, and you can make a few tweaks to elevate it:
1. Citrus Variations
- Swap orange zest and juice for lemon or lime for a different citrus twist.
- Add a teaspoon of orange liqueur for a boozy, festive flavor.
2. Sweetener Alternatives
- Use maple syrup, honey, or coconut sugar in place of granulated sugar for a nuanced sweetness.
- Reduce sugar slightly if you prefer a tarter, more cranberry-forward flavor.
3. Nutty Additions
- Sprinkle chopped almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts over the top for crunch.
- A light dusting of powdered sugar before serving adds a festive touch.
4. Crust Options
- Make a graham cracker crust for added texture and a slightly caramelized flavor.
- Use a gluten-free pie crust for dietary flexibility.
5. Fruit Mix-Ins
- Mix in fresh blueberries or raspberries for added color and flavor.
- Add a thin layer of orange marmalade under the custard for extra depth and sweetness.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store the pie covered for up to 3 days. Custard pies don’t freeze well, as the texture may separate.
- Serving Tip: Slice directly from the fridge to maintain the custard’s structure.
Serving Ideas
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or mascarpone for extra richness.
- Pair with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy dessert experience.
- Garnish with extra orange zest or a few whole cranberries for a festive presentation.
This pie is perfect for holiday tables, winter gatherings, or whenever you want a dessert that feels special without being overly complicated.
The Cranberry Orange Custard Pie is a celebration of flavors: tart cranberries, bright citrus, and rich custard all nestled in a golden crust. It’s visually stunning, easy to make, and delivers a comforting yet festive bite every time. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple weekend treat, this pie strikes the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and tangy.
With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s accessible to both beginner and experienced bakers. One slice is enough to transport you to cozy afternoons, festive dinners, and joyful moments shared with loved ones. Indulge in this delightful pie, and let the cranberry-orange combination brighten your dessert table.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, simply scatter them over the crust without thawing. They bake perfectly in the custard.
2. How do I know when the custard is set?
The edges should be firm, and the center slightly wobbly. It will continue to firm up as it cools.
3. Can I make the pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! Bake, cool, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Serve chilled for best texture.
4. Can I substitute other citrus?
Yes, lemon or lime juice and zest work well, offering a different but delicious flavor profile.
5. Can I make it dairy-free?
Use plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk) and a dairy-free cream substitute to make it dairy-free.
Cranberry Orange Custard Pie blends tart cranberries and bright orange in a creamy custard with a golden crust. Perfect for holidays or festive dessert tables!