As the frost starts to blanket the ground, thoughts of festive feasts fill my mind. One dessert that never fails to impress at holiday gatherings is the dazzling Cranberry Meringue Pie. With its perfectly flaky crust cradling a vibrant cranberry-orange curd, this stunning sweet treat serves as a delightful alternative to traditional flavors. Not only is this pie a visual showstopper, but it also combines sweet and tangy notes that dance on your palate—making it a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to spark joy during the holiday season. Plus, it’s the kind of dessert that showcases the beauty of fresh ingredients, perfect for anyone looking to step away from the fast-food frenzy. Ready to elevate your dessert game with this lovely meringue masterpiece? Let’s dive into the recipe! What makes this pie a holiday hit? Stunning Presentation: The vibrant cranberry-orange curd shines through fluffy meringue, making it a centerpiece at any gathering. Tart and Sweet Harmony: Each slice strikes a perfect balance between tangy cranberries and sweet meringue, refreshing your palate after rich holiday meals. Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh cranberries elevates the flavor, steering clear of canned alternatives for a truly delightful dessert. Exclusive Flavor: This pie offers a unique twist on classic holiday desserts, charming anyone who adores meringue or fruit-filled treats. Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Its striking visuals and delicious taste ensure you’ll receive rave reviews and requests for the recipe, making it memorable for all. Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the crust and curd ahead of time, allowing you to whip up the meringue and assemble right before serving for maximum freshness. Cranberry Meringue Pie Ingredients For the Pie Crust Pie Dough – Use a homemade dough for a flaky texture that perfectly complements the curd. For the Cranberry Curd Fresh Cranberries – Opt for fresh cranberries to enhance the tangy flavor; avoid canned to prevent a runny filling. Granulated Sugar – Provides the necessary sweetness to balance the tartness of the cranberries. Egg Yolks – Gives richness and helps thicken the curd for a creamy consistency. Unsalted Butter – Adds depth and richness to the curd, making it luscious. Fresh Orange Juice – Brings brightness to the curd and complements the cranberries beautifully. Orange Zest – Imparts a vibrant citrus flavor that enhances the overall taste of the curd. For the Meringue Egg Whites – The key ingredient for a fluffy meringue that creates height and texture. Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the meringue and helps achieve that glossy finish. Cream of Tartar – Stabilizes the meringue and helps it hold its shape when whipped. When you gather these ingredients, you’ll be on your way to making a stunning Cranberry Meringue Pie that will be unforgettable at your holiday gathering! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Meringue Pie Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust Begin by rolling out your homemade pie dough on a lightly floured surface until it is about 1/8 inch thick. Transfer the dough into a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it gently into the corners. Trim any excess dough and prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling. Blind bake the crust at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until it turns golden brown. Remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely while you prepare the filling. Step 2: Make the Cranberry Curd In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of fresh cranberries, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and the juice of one orange. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and blend until smooth. In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 egg yolks and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, then stir in the cranberry mixture. Return to low heat, cooking until thickened, around 5 minutes more. Step 3: Prepare the Meringue While the cranberry curd cools, start whipping your meringue. In a large bowl, beat the 4 egg whites with 1/4 teaspoon of cream of tartar using a hand mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form, roughly 3-5 minutes. Gradually add in 1 cup of granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, continuing to whip until stiff, glossy peaks form. This process will take an additional 5-7 minutes, creating a beautiful, airy meringue. Step 4: Assemble the Pie Pour the cooled cranberry curd into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Then, dollop the fluffy meringue over the curd, using the back of a spoon to create peaks and swirls for a stunning visual effect. Ensure the meringue touches the edges of the crust to prevent shrinking during baking. This layer of meringue is what gives the Cranberry Meringue Pie its charming look and texture. Step 5: Bake/Toast the Meringue Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the assembled pie in the oven and bake for approximately 10 minutes, or until the meringue is lightly toasted and golden brown. Keep a close eye during this time, as the meringue can quickly go from perfectly browned to overcooked. Once done, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for a bit. Step 6: Chill Before Serving To allow the curd to set and the meringue to stabilize, refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours before serving. This chilling time ensures that each slice will hold its shape when you cut into it. The beautiful layers of cranberry curd and fluffy meringue will shine through, making your Cranberry Meringue Pie a delightful centerpiece for your holiday gathering. Make Ahead Options These delightful Cranberry Meringue Pies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can prepare the pie crust and the cranberry curd up to 3 days in advance; just store them separately in airtight containers in your refrigerator to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply whip up the meringue on the day of serving—this ensures it stays fluffy and beautiful. Assemble the pie right before baking to prevent the meringue from weeping. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours after baking to set the curd. This make-ahead strategy not only saves precious time but ensures your Cranberry Meringue Pie remains just as delicious when it’s time to impress your guests! What to Serve with Cranberry Meringue Pie When you whip up this show-stopping dessert, it’s time to think about the perfect accompaniments that will elevate your holiday feast. Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a creamy richness that beautifully complements the pie’s tangy notes. Spiced Apple Cider: The warm flavors of spiced apple cider contrast perfectly with the cold, refreshing pie, making each bite feel festive. Chocolate Truffles: Decadent, rich chocolate truffles provide a luxurious finish, balancing the tartness of the cranberry with sweetness. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mixture of berries and citrus brightens the palate, providing a refreshing, healthy side to counter the pie’s richness. Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream melts into each slice, enhancing the pie with an added layer of sweetness and texture. When paired, they create a delightful temperature contrast. Holiday-Themed Cheese Platter: A selection of sharp cheeses paired with nuts and seasonal fruits creates a savory contrast next to the sweet pie. A little hint of saltiness can brighten flavors. Sparkling Wine: The bubbles in sparkling wine cleanse the palate, making each bite of the cranberry meringue pie an exciting experience. Baked Brie with Cranberries: Warm, gooey brie topped with cranberry preserves makes for a delightful appetizer that ties traditional flavors together. Nutty Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti for dipping can offer a unique texture that makes enjoying the pie that much more enjoyable; a lovely way to elevate your dessert experience. Storage Tips for Cranberry Meringue Pie Fridge: Store any leftover Cranberry Meringue Pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The meringue will soften over time, so enjoy it fresh! Freezer: If you need to freeze the pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving. Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the pie at room temperature for more than 2 hours to maintain its freshness and texture. Reheating: This pie is best served chilled or at room temperature. Avoid reheating the whole pie as it may affect the meringue’s structure. Expert Tips for Cranberry Meringue Pie Fresh Ingredients Matter: Always use fresh cranberries for the curd; they offer vibrant flavor that’s essential for the perfect cranberry meringue pie. Perfect Meringue: Make sure your mixing bowl is free from grease to stabilize the meringue. Any residue can prevent it from reaching stiff peaks. Chill Time is Key: Refrigerate your pie for at least 2 hours before serving. This will help the curd set and keep the meringue from weeping. Watch the Meringue: Keep a close eye on the pie while baking. The meringue can quickly brown; you want a light golden color for the best texture and taste. Handle with Care: When slicing, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water to achieve clean cuts. This preserves the beautiful layers in your cranberry meringue pie. Variations & Substitutions for Cranberry Meringue Pie Feel free to explore the delightful twists and substitutions that can elevate your Cranberry Meringue Pie to new heights, igniting your culinary creativity! Fruit Alternatives: Swap cranberry for apple or raspberry for a completely different flavor profile, keeping that delightful tartness. Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the curd for a cozy, warming spice that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. The warmth of spices can beautifully complement the tart cranberries, creating an inviting aroma. Graham Cracker Crust: Try using a graham cracker crust instead of traditional pie crust for a crunchy, sweet twist that pairs excellently with the creamy meringue. Make it Vegan: Substitute aquafaba (chickpea brine) for egg whites in the meringue to create a vegan version that’s equally fluffy and delicious. This ensures everyone can enjoy the treat without compromising their dietary choices. Add Citrus Zest: Enhance the flavor by incorporating lemon or lime zest into the meringue or the curd, delivering a zesty punch that brightens up the dessert. Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle a bit of melted chocolate over the meringue before baking for a decadent twist that introduces a lovely richness to every bite. Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle some finely chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, on top of the meringue before baking for added texture and flavor. Chili Heat: For those who enjoy a bit of spice, add a touch of cayenne or finely chopped fresh chili into the curd for an unexpected kick that balances the sweetness beautifully. These variations can make your Cranberry Meringue Pie even more special, so consider trying a few, and don’t forget to check out these White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies or Key Lime Pie for more delicious holiday ideas! Cranberry Meringue Pie Recipe FAQs What type of cranberries should I use for the pie? Absolutely! Always opt for fresh cranberries when making your Cranberry Meringue Pie. They provide that signature tartness and moisture for the curd. Avoid canned or dried cranberries, as they can lead to a runny filling and won’t deliver the same vibrant flavor. Visually, fresh cranberries should be firm and bright red, with no dark spots. How should I store any leftover pie? To keep your Cranberry Meringue Pie fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Remember, the meringue will begin to soften over time, so it’s best to savor this delightful dessert while it’s at its freshest! If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing as detailed below. Can I freeze the pie, and how do I do it? Yes, you absolutely can freeze your Cranberry Meringue Pie! First, ensure that it cools completely. Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. This method allows the pie to be stored for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw the pie in the refrigerator overnight before serving to keep its texture intact. What can I do if my meringue doesn’t form stiff peaks? Very! If your meringue isn’t reaching stiff peaks, check to ensure your mixing bowl is completely clean and free from any grease, as even a small residue can affect the meringue’s ability to whip up. Also, make sure the egg whites are at room temperature; this helps achieve better volume. Start whipping at medium speed until soft peaks form before gradually adding sugar. If you still struggle, continue to whip until it reaches the desired consistency. Are there any dietary considerations for this pie? When it comes to dietary restrictions, it’s important to note that this Cranberry Meringue Pie contains eggs and dairy, so it’s not suitable for vegans or those with egg allergies. If you’re looking for alternatives, consider using aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) in place of egg whites to make a vegan meringue. However, this may require different preparation methods to achieve the right texture. Always inform guests of the ingredients to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment! Cranberry Meringue Pie: Your New Favorite Holiday Dessert This Cranberry Meringue Pie combines sweet and tangy notes within a flaky crust, creating a stunning holiday dessert that will impress everyone. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsChill Time 2 hours hrsTotal Time 2 hours hrs 50 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 320 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pie Crust1 pie dough homemade for flaky textureFor the Cranberry Curd2 cups Fresh Cranberries preferably fresh, avoid canned1 cup Granulated Sugar3 large Egg Yolks2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter1 cup Fresh Orange Juice1 tablespoon Orange ZestFor the Meringue4 large Egg Whites1 cup Granulated Sugar for meringue1/4 teaspoon Cream of Tartar to stabilize Equipment 9-inch pie dishmedium saucepanlarge mixing bowlhand mixerspatula Method Step-by-Step InstructionsRoll out your homemade pie dough on a lightly floured surface until it is about 1/8 inch thick. Transfer the dough into a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it gently into the corners. Trim any excess dough and prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling. Blind bake the crust at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until it turns golden brown. Allow it to cool completely.In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of fresh cranberries, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and the juice of one orange. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. Blend until smooth. In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 egg yolks and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, then stir in the cranberry mixture. Cook over low heat until thickened, around 5 more minutes.In a large bowl, beat the 4 egg whites with 1/4 teaspoon of cream of tartar until soft peaks form, about 3-5 minutes. Gradually add in 1 cup of granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until stiff, glossy peaks form. This process takes an additional 5-7 minutes.Pour the cooled cranberry curd into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly. Dollop the fluffy meringue over the curd, ensuring it touches the edges of the crust.Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the assembled pie for approximately 10 minutes, until the meringue is lightly toasted and golden brown. Let it cool at room temperature.Refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the curd to set and keeps the meringue from weeping. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 5gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 135mgSodium: 100mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 30gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 4mg NotesUse fresh cranberries for the best flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
