There’s something truly special about gathering around the table during the holidays, where the scent of fresh-baked treats fills the air. One dessert that never fails to impress and delight is my Cranberry Custard Pie. The moment you cut into it, the creamy custard and vibrant cranberry layer reveal themselves, offering a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness that’s simply irresistible.

I discovered this gem while searching for a festive dessert that could impress my family without keeping me in the kitchen for hours. With its uncomplicated preparation and fabulous flavor, this pie became the star of our holiday celebrations. All you need are simple ingredients, a bit of time, and the willingness to create a stunning dessert that will wow your guests. Trust me; once you’ve tasted a slice, you’ll find it hard to believe that something so elegant can be this easy to make. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that brings joy to every festive gathering!

Why is Cranberry Custard Pie a Must-Try?

Irresistible flavors combine the tartness of cranberries with a luscious custard, creating a dessert that’s simply unforgettable. Quick preparation means you can focus more on celebrations and less on cooking. Stunning presentation adds a festive touch to your table, impressing even the pickiest guests. Versatile options allow you to easily adapt the recipe with spices or toppings, while make-ahead convenience lets you prepare it days in advance. For more delicious ways to use seasonal fruits, check out our delightful dessert ideas.

Cranberry Custard Pie Ingredients

For the Pie Crust
• Refrigerated Pie Crust – Provides the flaky base; feel free to use homemade or store-bought for ease.

For the Filling
• Cranberries (4 cups / 480 g / 17 oz) – The star ingredient, lending tartness that beautifully balances the sweet custard.
• Orange Juice (1 cup / 240 ml / 8 fl oz) – Adds a bright, zesty note; freshly squeezed juice enhances flavor.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk (1 can / 14 oz / 400 g) – Brings creaminess and sweetness, making this Cranberry Custard Pie rich and satisfying.
• Egg Yolks (6 large, at room temperature) – Essential for structure and richness in the filling; ensure they’re at room temp for best blending.
• Orange Zest (1 tbsp) – Infuses a fragrant citrus note that elevates the filling’s flavor profile.

How to Make Cranberry Custard Pie

Preheat Oven: Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (180°C or gas mark 4). This ensures the perfect baking temperature for your pie.
Prepare Pie Crust: Roll out your pie dough and carefully line a 9-inch pie pan, fluting the edges as desired to create an attractive crust.
Par-Bake the Crust: Cover your crust with parchment paper and press down with weights. Bake it for 10 minutes, then remove the parchment and weights and bake for another 10 minutes until lightly golden.
Cook Cranberries: In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries and orange juice over medium heat. Allow them to simmer for about 4-5 minutes until the cranberries start to soften.
Strain and Puree: Transfer the cooked cranberries to a blender and pulse until smooth. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to yield about 2 cups of cranberry puree.
Mix Filling: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, cranberry puree, and orange zest until the mixture becomes thick and well-combined.
Bake Pie: Pour the creamy filling into the prepared crust and place it in the oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set but still has a slight jiggle in the center.
Cool and Refrigerate: Let your pie cool at room temperature for about 2 hours, then place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight to help it firm up.
Decorate: Before serving, feel free to garnish your pie with whipped cream or a sprinkle of additional orange zest for a festive touch.

Optional: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for added creaminess!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Cranberry Custard Pie options are perfect for busy cooks looking to simplify their holiday preparations! You can prepare the pie crust and cranberry filling up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, bake the crust as directed, then let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating. Also, cook and puree the cranberries, then mix them with the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, and orange zest. Store the filling in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the filling into the chilled crust and bake as instructed. This way, you can enjoy the delightful flavors of the Cranberry Custard Pie with minimal last-minute fuss!

Cranberry Custard Pie Variations

Let your creativity shine by customizing this delightful pie to match your unique taste and dietary needs!

Mixed Berries: Substitute half of the cranberries with fresh raspberries or blueberries for a colorful berry medley. This twist adds a delightful sweetness, making each bite a fruity celebration.
Spiced Delight: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling to introduce warm, comforting notes. This subtle spice elevates the holiday spirit, creating a cozy atmosphere during your festive gatherings.
Chocolate Indulgence: Drizzle a layer of chocolate ganache on top before serving for an extra layer of richness. The combination of chocolate and cranberry is pure magic, transforming your pie into an elegant dessert.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the creamy filling before baking for added texture. These crunchy bits offer a delightful contrast to the silky pie and a nutty flavor that complements the cranberries beautifully.
Lemon Zest Twist: Swap out some orange zest for lemon zest for a zingy citrus kick. This refreshing twist lightens the overall flavor, making it bright and lively, which is perfect for springtime celebrations.
Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut condensed milk instead of sweetened condensed milk for a delightful dairy-free version. The coconut infusion brings a tropical touch that harmonizes with the tartness of the cranberries.
Savory Spin: Experiment with a pinch of sea salt and a touch of rosemary in the filling for a unique sweet-savory balance. This unexpected flavor combination can be wonderfully intriguing, impressing adventurous palates.
Maple Sweetener: Replace sweetened condensed milk with pure maple syrup for a more natural sweetness. The rich flavor of maple adds a lovely depth that melds perfectly with the tart cranberries.

What to Serve with Cranberry Custard Pie?

Creating the perfect meal is an art, and pairing delightful dishes can elevate your holiday feast.

Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds an airy texture that complements the creamy filling beautifully.
Spiced Apple Cider: This warm beverage’s hints of cinnamon and nutmeg embrace the pie’s sweet and tart notes, making each sip delightful.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy vanilla pairs perfectly, melting into the custard and enhancing the sweet flavors for an unforgettable treat.
Gingerbread Cookies: Their spiced crispiness provides a wonderful textural contrast to the smooth pie, making the meal feel festive and special.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These nutty, savory bites offer a tasty counterpoint to the sweetness of the pie, ensuring a balanced meal both flavor-wise and texture-wise.
Cranberry Sauce: For those who enjoy a double cranberry surprise, a fresh, tart cranberry sauce offers a vibrant topping that’s both tangy and beautiful.
Chocolate Drizzle: For an indulgent twist, a light drizzle of chocolate ganache over the pie adds richness and a gourmet flair that guests will adore.
Orange Sorbet: This refreshing dessert cleanses the palate and echoes the citrus notes from the pie, making your meal feel bright and light.

How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Custard Pie

Fridge: Store leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Freezer: Wrap individual slices or the whole pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months.

Thawing: To enjoy your frozen Cranberry Custard Pie, thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving, allowing the custard to regain its silky texture.

Reheating: If desired, warm individual slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds to enjoy a cozy slice straight from the fridge.

Expert Tips for Cranberry Custard Pie

Crust Perfection: Ensure your pie crust is fully par-baked to avoid sogginess, allowing for that delightful flaky texture.
Chill Time: Be patient! Cooling the pie in the refrigerator for at least four hours allows the custard to set perfectly for serving.
Watch the Bake: Keep a close eye on the baking time, covering the edges of the crust with foil if they brown too quickly to avoid burning.
Fruit Freshness: When choosing cranberries for your pie, fresh berries will give the best flavor, though frozen ones work in a pinch.
Non-Dairy Option: Consider using coconut condensed milk as a substitute for a delicious non-dairy version of this Cranberry Custard Pie.

Cranberry Custard Pie Recipe FAQs

What kind of cranberries should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using fresh cranberries, as they provide the perfect tartness that balances the sweetness of the custard. However, if fresh cranberries are unavailable, frozen ones work just as well—just be sure to thaw and drain them before cooking.

How should I store leftover Cranberry Custard Pie?
After enjoying this delightful pie, store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, for up to 3 days. Keeping it chilled will help maintain that creamy texture while preserving its lovely flavor.

Can I freeze Cranberry Custard Pie?
Yes! To freeze your pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the fridge. This allows the custard to regain its silky texture, making it just as delightful as the day it was baked.

What if my custard doesn’t set?
If your custard is still too jiggly after baking, don’t worry! It may need additional refrigeration time to fully set. Make sure to cool it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours—or better yet, overnight. This helps the custard firm up nicely. If the custard appears runny after baking, check your oven temperature, as not baking it long enough could also lead to a soft filling.

Is this recipe suitable for dietary restrictions?
Definitely! If you’re looking for a non-dairy version, consider using coconut condensed milk instead of regular sweetened condensed milk. Also, be cautious about the crust if you have gluten sensitivities; a gluten-free crust can be used without sacrificing texture or flavor.

Can I make this pie in advance?
Very much! The Cranberry Custard Pie can be prepared 1-2 days ahead of time. Simply bake it, cool it, and store it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. This make-ahead convenience is perfect for busy holiday gatherings, letting you focus on enjoying time with family and friends!