Crustless Cranberry Pie Recipe

If you’re looking for a warm, cozy dessert that captures the vibrant tartness of cranberries without the fuss of a traditional pie crust, this Crustless Cranberry Pie Recipe is your new best friend. It’s light yet satisfying, combining the fresh zing of cranberries with a nutty crunch and a tender, cake-like texture. This dessert is incredibly easy to whip up, perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you want a sweet treat that feels special but not heavy. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to showcase cranberries in a delightfully simple way that everyone will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for this pie is a breeze, and each element plays a crucial role in creating that balanced, flavorful experience. From the tart cranberries to the warm almond extract, let’s break down why these simple staples are essential.

• 1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and base for the pie’s tender crumb texture.
• 1 cup white sugar: Sweetens the tart cranberries to keep the flavors perfectly balanced.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, tying the sweetness and tartness together.
• 2 cups fresh cranberries: The star of the show, lending vibrant color and a delightful tart bite.
• ½ cup chopped walnuts: Adds a wonderful crunch and nutty richness that complements the tangy berries.
• ½ cup butter, melted: Brings moisture and a luscious richness that keeps the pie soft and satisfying.
• 2 large eggs, beaten: Bind everything together and contribute to the pie’s just-right cakey texture.
• 1 teaspoon almond extract: Offers a fragrant, warm note that elevates the flavor to something truly special.

How to Make Crustless Cranberry Pie Recipe

Step 1: Gather and Prepare Ingredients

Start by collecting all your ingredients to keep things smooth and stress-free. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius), and grease a 9-inch pie pan generously—this ensures your pie will slide out of the pan effortlessly once baked.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients and Coat Cranberries

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Then, add in the fresh cranberries and chopped walnuts. Toss everything gently to coat the cranberries and nuts in the flour mixture, which helps prevent the berries from sinking and keeps the texture even throughout the pie.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Pour in the melted butter, beaten eggs, and almond extract to the cranberry mixture. Stir everything together until you have a uniform batter rich with bursts of deep red cranberries and speckled with crunchy walnuts.

Step 4: Bake Your Pie

Pour the batter into the prepared pie dish, spreading it out evenly. Place it in your preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes. The pie is ready when a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean, signaling that the moist, cakey crumb is perfectly cooked and ready to delight.

How to Serve Crustless Cranberry Pie Recipe

Garnishes

One of the joys of this Crustless Cranberry Pie Recipe is how beautifully it pairs with simple garnishes. A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creamy sweetness that contrasts perfectly with the tangy cranberries. Sprinkle a few toasted walnuts on top for extra crunch and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

This pie makes a wonderful ending to a festive meal, especially when paired with warm beverages like spiced cider or a rich cup of coffee. For brunch, serve alongside a light fruit salad or a crisp green salad to provide a fresh counterpoint to the pie’s rich flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress your guests, try serving individual slices of the pie with a drizzle of honey or a dusting of powdered sugar. You can also plate it with a few extra fresh cranberries and an edible flower for a stunning seasonal presentation that feels effortlessly elegant.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This crustless cranberry pie keeps beautifully at room temperature for a day or two if covered loosely with foil or plastic wrap. For longer storage, place it in the refrigerator where it will stay fresh for up to four days—perfect for enjoying throughout the week.

Freezing

If you want to prepare this pie in advance, it freezes very well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or use an airtight container. When properly stored, it can last up to two months in the freezer without sacrificing taste or texture.

Reheating

To enjoy the pie warm, reheat slices gently in the oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10–15 minutes, or microwave individual pieces briefly. This helps revive the soft, tender crumb and brings out the fragrant almond and cranberry flavors freshly baked once again.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries in the Crustless Cranberry Pie Recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones. Just be sure to thaw and drain them slightly to avoid excess moisture in the batter, which can affect the pie’s texture.

Is there a substitute for the almond extract?

If you don’t have almond extract, vanilla extract is a good alternative. It won’t have the same nutty depth, but it will still add a warm, pleasant flavor that complements the cranberries nicely.

Can I make this pie nut-free?

Yes, you can leave out the walnuts if you need a nut-free option. The pie will still be delicious, though it will miss that extra crunch and richness that walnuts provide.

How do I know when the pie is fully baked?

The best test is to insert a toothpick into the center of the pie after about 40 minutes. If it comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs clinging, your pie is done and ready to enjoy.

Can I double the recipe to make a larger pie?

You certainly can double the ingredients to bake in a larger dish, but keep an eye on the baking time. A larger pie may need additional minutes to cook through completely, so check doneness with a toothpick test regularly.

Final Thoughts

This Crustless Cranberry Pie Recipe is a wonderful, fuss-free way to bring the bright flavors of the holidays to your table without any extra work rolling out dough. It’s light, flavorful, and absolutely crowd-pleasing, whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out. Give it a try—you might just find it becomes your go-to dessert for cozy evenings and festive celebrations alike!

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