Are you ready to elevate your dessert game? The Apple Cranberry Meringue Pie is not just any pie; it’s a stunning masterpiece that combines the sweet, crisp flavors of apples with the tart zing of fresh cranberries, all topped with a cloud-like meringue that will leave your guests in awe. Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in, this pie is sure to impress. With a golden crust, a deliciously fruity filling, and a fluffy topping, every bite is a delightful journey. Don’t miss out on the chance to create this show-stopping dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pie crust
- 2 cups apples, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 3 large egg whites
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for meringue)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your pie crust will bake evenly and become golden brown.
- Prepare the pie crust according to your preferred recipe or package instructions. If using a store-bought crust, unroll it and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges and crimp the edges for a decorative finish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the peeled and sliced apples with the fresh cranberries. Make sure to mix them gently to avoid bruising the fruit.
- Add 1 cup of granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to the fruit mixture. The sugar will help sweeten the tart cranberries, while the cornstarch will thicken the filling as it bakes. Stir until the fruit is well coated and set aside.
- Pour the apple and cranberry filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly. Make sure to fill the crust to the top without overflowing.
- Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the fruit is bubbling and the crust is lightly golden.
- While the pie is baking, prepare the meringue. In a clean mixing bowl, add the 3 large egg whites and 1/4 teaspoon of cream of tartar. Using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites on medium speed until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add 1/2 cup of granulated sugar to the egg whites, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat on high speed. Beat until the mixture is glossy and stiff peaks form, which should take about 4-5 minutes.
- Once the pie has baked for 30 minutes, carefully remove it from the oven. Spoon the meringue over the hot filling, making sure to spread it all the way to the edges of the crust to seal in the filling and prevent shrinking.
- Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to create peaks and swirls in the meringue for a decorative touch.
- Return the pie to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown.
- Once the meringue is golden, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This will help the filling set properly.
- Serve the Apple Cranberry Meringue Pie at room temperature or chilled, and enjoy the delightful combination of sweet apples, tart cranberries, and fluffy meringue!
Tips
- Choose the Right Apples: Opt for a mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, to create a balanced flavor profile in your pie.
- Pre-Bake the Crust: For an extra crispy crust, consider pre-baking it for about 10 minutes before adding the filling. This helps prevent a soggy bottom.
- Don’t Skimp on the Meringue: Make sure to spread the meringue all the way to the edges of the crust to seal in the filling and prevent shrinking. Creating peaks and swirls adds a beautiful touch.
- Cool Properly: Allow the pie to cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This helps the filling set properly and makes for cleaner slices.
- Serve with a Twist: For an extra special touch, serve your pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to complement the flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
