Cranberry Apple Pie

There’s something magical about the combination of cranberries and apples. This Cranberry Apple Pie brings together the tartness of cranberries and the sweetness of apples, creating a dessert that’s perfect for chilly days and holiday gatherings. It started as a simple experiment; I wanted something a bit different from the classic apple pie but didn’t want to stray too far from tradition. This recipe was the result, and let me tell you—it’s become a family favorite.

My kids’ eyes light up every time they see this pie on the counter. The colors are beautiful, with the deep red of the cranberries contrasting against the warm golden crust. But it’s not just about looks. This pie has the perfect balance of sweet and tart, with a texture that’s satisfyingly juicy but not too runny. My husband, who usually skips desserts, always asks for a second slice.

This pie is so much more than a dessert; it’s a way to bring the family together. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a weekend treat, it’s always a hit. And the best part? It’s easy enough that even with the chaos of daily life, I can whip this up without too much fuss. I’m excited to share this recipe with you, hoping it’ll bring the same warmth and joy to your home as it does to ours.

Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe

Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones. Just be sure to thaw and drain them slightly to avoid extra moisture.

What kind of apples should I use?
I recommend a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. This combination gives the pie a balanced flavor.

Do I have to use a lattice crust?
Nope! A solid top crust works just as well if you prefer, but the lattice crust adds a beautiful presentation.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake it a day in advance. Just keep it covered at room temperature and warm it slightly before serving.

Is it possible to make this pie gluten-free?
Yes, just substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking, and follow the same instructions.

What You Need to Make Cranberry Apple Pie

Ingredients:

1 pre-made or homemade pie crust (top and bottom)

3 cups peeled, sliced apples (mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp)

1 ½ cups fresh or frozen cranberries

¾ cup granulated sugar

¼ cup brown sugar

3 tbsp cornstarch

1 tsp cinnamon

½ tsp nutmeg

Zest of 1 orange (optional for added flavor)

1 tbsp butter, cut into small pieces

1 egg (for egg wash)

Equipment:

9-inch pie dish

Rolling pin (if making homemade crust)

Mixing bowl

Pastry brush

How to Make Cranberry Apple Pie

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the bottom crust and place it in a 9-inch pie dish, leaving an overhang.

Prepare the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples, cranberries, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and orange zest (if using). Toss until the fruit is evenly coated.

Assemble the pie: Pour the filling into the crust-lined pie dish. Dot the filling with small pieces of butter.

Top with crust: Roll out the top crust and create a lattice design or cover the filling entirely. Trim and crimp the edges to seal.

Egg wash: Beat the egg and brush it over the top crust for a golden finish.

Bake: Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake for 20 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for another 40–45 minutes until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly.

Cool before serving: Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours before slicing, letting the filling set.

Tips for Making the Best Cranberry Apple Pie

Use a mix of apples: Combining tart and sweet apples enhances the flavor complexity.

Cornstarch helps thicken the filling without making it gummy. If you prefer a runnier filling, reduce it by a tablespoon.

Try adding orange zest for a subtle citrus twist that pairs beautifully with cranberries.

Make a lattice crust if you’re looking for a festive presentation. It’s easier than it looks, and it lets the vibrant filling peek through.

Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra treat.

Reader Reviews

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Perfect for our family holiday dinner! The balance of tart cranberries and sweet apples is amazing.” – Lisa M.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Loved the flavor, but I think I’ll add a little more cinnamon next time. My kids loved it!” – Sarah.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This pie is a must-try! I used frozen cranberries, and it turned out fantastic.” – Brenda L.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Great pie! The lattice crust made it look so pretty. I added orange zest, and it was delicious.” – Mark K.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Best pie I’ve made! My husband, who’s not usually a pie fan, asked for seconds.” – Rachel T.

Printable Recipe

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If You Enjoyed This Recipe, Please Share!

If this Cranberry Apple Pie brought a little extra warmth to your home, I’d love for you to share it! Tag me in your photos on social media so I can see your beautiful creations. There’s something special about sharing a recipe that’s become a family favorite, and I’d be thrilled to hear that this pie brought joy to your family, too. Spread the love, and let’s make the world a little sweeter one slice at a time!