Erin Jeanne McDowell’s Cranberry-Orange Pie

A perfect harmony of tangy berries and citrus zest comes together in a buttery base.

By Medha deb
Created on

Introduction to Erin Jeanne McDowell’s Cranberry-Orange Pie

Erin Jeanne McDowell’s Cranberry-Orange Pie is a recipe that combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness and zest of orange, wrapped in a delicious, flaky pie crust. This recipe is perfect for those looking to add a vibrant twist to traditional pie recipes. The combination of flavors offers a delightful balance of sweet and tangy, making it a great choice for any occasion.

Ingredients Needed

To prepare this pie, you will need the following ingredients:

If you're eager to try another twist on this classic flavor, explore our delectable Cranberry Apple Crumb Pie recipe. This alternative brings together the tartness of cranberries and the sweetness of apples for a delightful dessert that's sure to impress at any gathering.
ComponentIngredients
Cranberry Filling2 lbs. cranberries (fresh or frozen), 1/2 cup fresh orange juice, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar, 1 tsp. ground cinnamon, 3/4 tsp. ground ginger, 1/4 tsp. ground cloves, 1/2 tsp. fine sea salt, 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
Orange Cream Cheese Filling8 oz. cream cheese, grated zest of 2 medium oranges, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 1 large egg lightly whisked, 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract or Fiori di Sicilia, 1/4 tsp. fine sea salt
All-Buttah Pie Dough1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1/4 tsp. fine sea salt, 8 Tbsp. cold unsalted butter, 1/4 cup ice water, 1 large egg lightly beaten

Instructions for Preparing the Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Dough

To start, prepare the pie dough by whisking together flour and salt in a large bowl. Add the cubed butter and use your hands or a pastry cutter to break it down into pea-sized pieces. Create a well in the center and add ice water, combining the mixture lightly until it forms a cohesive dough. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven and Roll Out the Dough

Preheat your oven to 425°F with the rack in the lower third. Roll out the chilled pie dough and fit it into a 9-inch pie plate. Crimp the edges to your liking and top with parchment paper and pie weights.

For those seeking another delicious option, check out our Rustic Apple-Cranberry Pie recipe: A Delectable Autumn Dessert. This pie captures the essence of the season and offers a rich, comforting experience with every bite.

Step 3: Bake the Crust and Prepare the Filling

Bake the crust for 15-17 minutes until the edges are lightly browned. Remove the parchment and pie weights, then return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes to set the bottom. Meanwhile, prepare the cranberry filling by mixing all ingredients in a medium pot and cooking over medium heat until the cranberries have softened, about 12-15 minutes. Reduce heat to low and continue cooking until thickened, stirring frequently. Stir in vanilla extract and let cool completely.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake the Pie

Once the crust is cool, fill it with the orange cream cheese mixture and layer it with the cranberry filling. Bake at a lower temperature to prevent the crust from burning, ensuring the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.

Ready to branch out? Dive into our Nantucket Cranberry Pie guide, which highlights traditional methods and easy baking tips to create a pie with a rich heritage and delightful flavors that will enchant your guests.

Exploring Variations and Tips

This pie offers a lot of flexibility, allowing you to adjust the amount of spices or add other ingredients like nuts for added texture. Be sure to use fresh orange zest for the best flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What type of cranberries can I use?

A: You can use either fresh or frozen cranberries for this recipe. If using frozen, there’s no need to thaw them first.

Q: How do I prevent the pie crust from becoming soggy?

A: To prevent a soggy crust, make sure the crust is fully baked before adding the filling, and brush the bottom with an egg wash to seal it.

Q: Can I substitute orange for another citrus fruit?

A: While oranges provide a unique flavor, you can experiment with lemons or limes for a different twist, though the flavor profile will be slightly different.

For a refreshing alternative that embodies citrus perfection, don’t miss our Orange Meringue Pie: A Citrus Classic with Fluffy Perfection. This pie is a crowd-pleaser, delivering a light and airy texture combined with bright citrus flavors that will leave you wanting more.

Conclusion

Erin Jeanne McDowell’s Cranberry-Orange Pie is a delightful dessert that combines the brightness of orange with the tartness of cranberries, all wrapped in a beautiful, flaky crust. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is sure to impress friends and family with its unique flavor and attractive presentation.

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

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