Cranberry Cherry Pie with Almond Glaze Recipe

If you are on the hunt for a pie that bursts with holiday cheer in every bite, the Cranberry Cherry Pie with Almond Glaze Recipe is absolutely what you need in your baking repertoire. This vibrant, jewel-toned dessert is a dazzling mix of tart cranberries and sweet cherry pie filling, wrapped in a tender, flaky crust and crowned with a luscious almond glaze that hardens into a delicate, crunchy finish. It’s a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will have your family and friends swooning. Whether you’re baking for a festive gathering or just because, this pie brings warmth, joy, and a splash of elegance to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, classic ingredients come together to create this showstopper pie, each playing its unique part to build that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and appearance. From the flaky crust to the luscious filling and shiny almond glaze, everything is carefully chosen to elevate this dessert.

• 2 cups all purpose flour: Provides the foundation for a flaky, tender crust when properly measured and handled.
• 1 & 1/2 tablespoons white sugar: Just enough sweetness to enhance the crust without overpowering the filling.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• 1/2 cup cold butter (cut into chunks): Creates that flaky, melt-in-your-mouth texture when cold butter pieces act as steam pockets during baking.
• 6 tablespoons butter-flavored Crisco: Adds tenderness and a buttery flavor that complements the butter perfectly.
• 1/2 beaten egg: Makes the crust extra tender, ensuring it doesn’t toughen during baking.
• 1/4 cup ice water: Brings the dough together without warming the fats, crucial for flaky layers.
• 1 (21-oz) can cherry pie filling: Sweet and juicy cherries that form the heart of the pie’s filling.
• 1 (12-oz) bag fresh cranberries (3 cups): Adds a bright tartness that contrasts beautifully with the cherry and sweet glaze.
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch: Thickens the filling perfectly, so it sets without being runny.
• 1 & 1/4 cups white sugar: Sweetens the tart cranberries and balances the overall flavor.
• Dash of salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the filling.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla: Adds warmth and richness to the filling’s flavor profile.
• 2 tablespoons cold butter (cut into chunks): Dotting the filling enhances richness and moistness during baking.
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Key ingredient for the silky smooth almond glaze topping.
• 1 tablespoon light corn syrup: Gives the glaze its glossy, luscious finish.
• 2-3 teaspoons milk: Adjusts consistency in the glaze to perfectly drizzle over the pie.
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract: Infuses the glaze with a delicate nutty flavor that complements the fruit filling.
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds: Adds a crunchy, nutty topping that makes the pie look as amazing as it tastes.

How to Make Cranberry Cherry Pie with Almond Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Chill the Ice Water

The secret to a flaky crust starts here. Measure 1/4 cup water and chill it in the freezer or combine water and ice for perfectly cold liquid. This step ensures your fats stay cold so the dough maintains its light, crumbly texture when baked.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Whisk together flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. This creates an even base that helps your crust have a balanced flavor and prevents uneven salt pockets.

Step 3: Cut in the Butter and Crisco

Use a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This little step is where the magic happens for that flaky texture—don’t overdo it or your crust might turn out tough.

Step 4: Add Egg and Water Mixture

Beat an egg and pour out half for just the right amount to add into your chilled water. Mix these together and stir it into the flour and fat mixture. This combination adds tenderness and structure to your crust.

Step 5: Bring Dough Together and Chill

Knead the dough gently until it barely comes together, then divide into two halves. Roll each half on a floured surface and transfer to your pie pan. The dough deserves a chill in the fridge while you prepare that gorgeous filling.

Step 6: Prepare the Oven and Cranberries

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F to get it nice and hot. Rinse fresh cranberries carefully, picking out any stems or blemishes. Fresh cranberries offer a sharp zip that will brighten each bite deliciously.

Step 7: Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, combine cherry pie filling, cranberries, cornstarch, sugar, dash of salt, and vanilla. The cornstarch will thicken the juices as the pie bakes, and the vanilla lends an aromatic depth that makes the fruit sing.

Step 8: Assemble the Pie

Pour your fruit filling into the pie shell and sprinkle the cold butter chunks on top—they melt in the oven, enriching the fruit blend beautifully. Roll out the second dough half and gently cover the pie, sealing the edges by folding and crimping. Cut vents in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.

Step 9: Bake in Two Stages

Bake at 425 degrees F for 15 minutes for a robust start. Lower heat to 375 degrees F, cover loosely with sprayed tin foil, and bake 35 minutes more. Then, adjust your tin foil to protect the edges and bake an additional 10-15 minutes to get that golden center. Total bake time should hover around one hour, ensuring a crust that’s perfectly baked and filling that’s set but juicy.

Step 10: Cool and Glaze

Cool the pie on a rack for several hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to meld and the filling to fully set. A couple of hours before serving, whisk together powdered sugar, corn syrup, milk, and almond extract to create the dreamy almond glaze. Drizzle it generously over the pie, smoothing it into every crevice, and top with sliced almonds. Let it rest until the glaze hardens for that stunning, crunchy finish.

How to Serve Cranberry Cherry Pie with Almond Glaze Recipe

Garnishes

Before serving, add a few extra sliced almonds or a small dusting of powdered sugar for sophisticated flair. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream brings cooling creaminess to the vibrant tartness of the pie.

Side Dishes

This pie pairs wonderfully with light dessert wines, coffee, or a spiced chai latte. If serving as part of a larger meal, crisp garden greens or a tangy citrus salad keep the palate refreshed alongside this rich dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve pie slices on pretty china with a drizzle of additional almond glaze around the plate, or plate with edible flowers for a celebration-style presentation. For a casual party, offer mini tart versions in muffin tins—everyone loves a personal pie!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover pie covered loosely with foil or plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 24 hours. For longer storage, refrigeration is best to preserve the glaze and fruit filling freshness for up to 4 days.

Freezing

You can freeze this pie either before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in the oven to refresh the crust’s flakiness.

Reheating

To bring back that just-baked warmth and texture, reheat slices in a 350 degrees F oven for 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can soften the crust and dull the almond glaze’s beautiful texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries for the filling?

Absolutely! If you use frozen cranberries, thaw and drain them slightly before mixing with the filling to avoid excess moisture, which can make the crust soggy.

Is there a substitute for the almond extract in the glaze?

You can use vanilla extract as a substitute, but the almond extract really adds that signature nutty aroma that sets this pie apart. If nut allergies are a concern, vanilla is a great alternative.

Can I make the crust ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the pie crust dough up to 2 days ahead. Wrap it tightly and refrigerate. This actually helps develop flavor and makes rolling easier when you’re ready to assemble.

What if I don’t have butter-flavored Crisco?

Regular shortening is a fine substitute, though the butter flavor adds depth to the crust. If you prefer, you can skip shortening and just use butter, but your crust might be less tender and flaky.

How do I prevent the pie crust edges from burning?

Keep an eye on your crust edges and cover them with foil or a pie shield once they start to brown too much—just like in the baking instructions. This ensures even browning without burnt edges.

Final Thoughts

Making the Cranberry Cherry Pie with Almond Glaze Recipe is such a joyful experience because it beautifully combines bright seasonal flavors with comforting textures and finishes it all with a luscious almond glaze. It’s a feast for your eyes and your taste buds, perfect for celebrating special moments or simply treating yourself. Trust me, once you try it, this pie will become one of your new favorite go-to desserts for any occasion. So gather your ingredients, get baking, and prepare to impress!

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