Christmas Pie
It’s the holiday season, and nothing brings a smile to your face quite like a warm slice of Christmas Pie. This delightful dessert showcases a medley of mixed berries, love, and a hint of spice, making it the perfect centerpiece for your festive gatherings. Whether served at a holiday dinner or enjoyed during a cozy evening with your family, this pie can quickly become a cherished tradition. With its vibrant colors and sweet-tart flavors, it’s a true celebration of the season.
Why this recipe is a must-try
Why settle for ordinary desserts when you can bring home the magic of Christmas with this festive pie? This recipe is a quick and budget-friendly option, perfect for holiday gatherings or a sweet indulgence any night of the week. The combination of juicy cranberries, blueberries, and raspberries makes it a deliciously tart treat that appeals to all ages—kids especially love digging into that flaky crust!
"This Christmas Pie was a hit! The combination of berries was perfect, and the aroma while it baked was heavenly!" – Satisfied Home Baker
Preparing Christmas Pie
Let’s dive into how to bring this delectable Christmas Pie to life! Making this pie involves a simple blend of fresh and frozen berries, a delightful mix of sugar and spices, and the comforting embrace of pie crust. Whether you opt for store-bought or homemade crust, the process is straightforward, allowing you to savor the joy of pie-making without stress.
What you’ll need
Gather these items for a successful pie-making adventure:
- 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 cups mixed berries (cranberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)
Feel free to substitute the berries with your favorites! Blackberries or strawberries work beautifully too.
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the berries, sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and lemon juice until well combined.
- Pour the berry mixture into the pie crust you’ve prepared.
- Either top with another pie crust or create a beautiful lattice crust for a stunning finish.
- Brush the top with the egg wash (combination of egg and milk) for that golden sheen.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Allow the pie to cool before slicing and serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
Now that your Christmas Pie is ready, think about serving it up in style! A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side can elevate each slice, perfectly balancing the tartness of the berries. Consider complementing it with a dollop of whipped cream or pairing it with a warm cup of spiced cider for that extra festive touch.
How to store & freeze
If you have leftover pie (if that’s even possible!), store it covered at room temperature for three days. To preserve it longer, refrigerate the leftover pieces. Be sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap or aluminum foil! If you want to freeze your pie, it’s best to do so before baking. Wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven straight from the freezer; it will need a bit more time to cook.
Helpful cooking tips
- For a flakier crust, keep your ingredients cold. Use chilled butter and ice water while preparing the dough.
- Mixing the berries with cornstarch and sugar ahead of time helps thicken the filling and prevent a soggy bottom.
- Letting the pie cool completely before slicing allows the filling to set properly, making for cleaner slices.
Creative twists
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Try adding a splash of almond extract for a nutty flavor or a handful of chopped nuts to give your pie a delightful crunch. Switching up the spices can also lead to new flavor profiles—how about a dash of nutmeg for a warm winter touch?
Your questions answered
How long does it take to make this pie?
Including prep and baking time, you’re looking at about 1.5 to 2 hours to make this pie from start to finish.
Can I use frozen berries?
Absolutely! Frozen berries work great. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before mixing with the other ingredients to avoid a watery filling.
How do I reheat the pie?
Simply place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also pop them in the microwave for a quicker option.
Enjoy this mouthwatering Christmas Pie and make it a part of your holiday traditions!
Christmas Pie
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the berries, sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and lemon juice until well combined.
- Pour the berry mixture into the prepared pie crust.
- Top with another pie crust or create a lattice crust.
- Brush the top with the egg wash (combination of egg and milk).
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until the crust is golden brown and filling is bubbling.
- Allow the pie to cool before slicing and serving.
