French Cranberry-Apple Pie Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that perfectly balances the tartness of cranberries with the warm sweetness of apples, look no further than this French Cranberry-Apple Pie. It’s a heartwarming treat filled with cozy spices, a crunchy pecan topping, and that buttery flaky crust we all crave. This pie isn’t just a dessert; it’s a celebration of early autumn’s best flavors blended into one irresistible classic with a touch of French-inspired charm.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward, but each one plays a vital role in crafting the perfect French Cranberry-Apple Pie. From the crisp apples to the crunchy pecan topping, every element adds layers of flavor, texture, and color.

• 1 crust from 1 box (14.1 oz) refrigerated Pillsbury™ Pie Crusts (2 Count), softened as directed on box: Makes for a flaky, buttery base that’s easy to work with.
• 4 cups sliced peeled cooking apples (4 medium): Use tart, firm apples for that classic apple-pie texture and flavor that holds up well during baking.
• 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries: Adds a bright, tangy punch to balance the sweetness perfectly.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the fruit filling just right without overpowering.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Acts as a thickening agent for the fruit juices, keeping the filling just right.
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar: Brings a warm, caramel note to the filling.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses the filling with cozy, aromatic spice.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle depth and warmth that complements the cinnamon.
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for topping): Helps create that crumbly, irresistible topping texture.
• 1/3 cup packed brown sugar (for topping): Provides caramel-like sweetness to the crumble.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping): Layers more spice right where you want it on top.
• Dash nutmeg (for topping): A tiny touch for aromatic complexity.
• 1/4 cup butter or margarine: The key to that buttery, golden crumble topping.
• 1/3 cup chopped pecans: Adds crunch and nuttiness to the topping, rounding out the pie’s textures.

How to Make French Cranberry-Apple Pie

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pie Crust

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F. Place the refrigerated pie crust into a 9-inch glass pie pan following the package instructions for a One-Crust Filled Pie. This step ensures you’re starting with a perfectly formed shell that will hold all that delicious filling and topping with grace.

Step 2: Mix the Fruit Filling

In a large bowl, gently toss together the sliced peeled cooking apples and cranberries. In a separate small bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Add this dry mixture to your fruit and mix gently until every piece is lightly coated. This careful mixing helps the spices and sugars cling lovingly to each apple slice and cranberry, setting the stage for every flavorful bite.

Step 3: Fill the Pie Crust

Pour your beautifully coated fruit filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it out evenly. This is where the layers of tart cranberry and sweet apple come together, nestling into a cozy buttery cradle ready for its crumbly topping.

Step 4: Create and Add the Pecan Topping

In a small bowl, stir together the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg for the topping. Use a pastry blender or fork to cut in the butter until the mixture becomes crumbly and sandy. Then, fold in the chopped pecans. Sprinkle this luscious topping evenly over your fruit filling. This crunchy layer will bake into a golden crown of texture and flavor that beautifully complements the tender fruit beneath.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake your pie for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the apples are tender and both the crust and topping achieve a gorgeous golden brown hue. After about 15 to 20 minutes of baking, cover the edges of the crust with foil strips to prevent them from overbrowning. This attention to detail keeps the crust perfectly baked and not burnt—something every pie lover appreciates!

How to Serve French Cranberry-Apple Pie

Garnishes

Serving your French Cranberry-Apple Pie warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream elevates this dessert to another level. The creamy coolness balances the pie’s warm spices and crunch beautifully. For an extra touch, sprinkle powdered sugar or a few fresh cranberries on top for an eye-catching finish.

Side Dishes

This pie pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a fresh green salad or steamed veggies if you’re enjoying it as part of a special meal. For a purely indulgent treat, some hot coffee or chai tea can turn your dessert moment into a cozy ritual.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive gathering, cut your French Cranberry-Apple Pie into small squares, place each on a pretty plate, and drizzle caramel or chocolate sauce over the top. You can even serve mini versions by using tart shells filled with the same delicious filling and topping. These bite-sized delights make perfect party treats!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover pie tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This allows those wonderful flavors to meld even further, often making the pie taste even better the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze the pie for longer storage. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When well wrapped, your French Cranberry-Apple Pie will stay fresh for up to 2 months in the freezer, perfect for saving a special homemade treat for later!

Reheating

To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm slices in a 350°F oven on a baking sheet for about 15 to 20 minutes until heated through and the crust is crisp again. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that lovely crisp texture in the crust and topping.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples for this pie?

Absolutely! While tart, firm cooking apples like Granny Smith work best for holding their shape and balancing the cranberry’s tartness, you can experiment with varieties like Honeycrisp or Braeburn for a slightly sweeter pie.

Should I use fresh or frozen cranberries?

Both work well for the French Cranberry-Apple Pie. Fresh cranberries add a vibrant pop of flavor, but frozen cranberries are a convenient and equally tasty option, especially when fresh ones are out of season.

Can I make the pie crust from scratch?

Of course! Using a homemade crust can add a personal touch. Just be sure it yields enough dough to line your 9-inch pan and hold the filling and topping without sogginess.

Is the pecan topping necessary?

The pecan topping is one of the pie’s signature elements, adding crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the filling. However, you can skip it or substitute with walnuts or even an oat crumble if you prefer.

How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?

Covering the crust edges with foil partway through baking helps avoid over-browning while maintaining crispness. Also, the flour in the filling and careful mixing help absorb excess juice so the crust stays nicely textured.

Final Thoughts

Once you experience the cozy, zesty charm of the French Cranberry-Apple Pie, it’s hard not to make it a favorite go-to dessert for fall and beyond. Every bite, filled with tender apples, tart cranberries, and a rich, buttery pecan topping, feels like a warm hug. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try and share the joy it brings around your table!

Print