Name: Tart and Sweet Cranberry Sage Pie Recipe
Prep time: 1 h 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 2 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 cups fresh cranberries (or frozen, thawed and drained); 2 ¼ cups granulated sugar; ⅓ cup orange juice; ¼ cup cornstarch; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg; ¼ teaspoon ground allspice; ¼ teaspoon ground ginger; ¼ teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage; 2 tablespoons butter, diced; 2 premade raw pie crusts; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); 2 tablespoons demerara or turbinado sugar (for sprinkling); 4 cups whipped topping or whipped cream (for serving)

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 23 reviews

If you’re craving something a little different this holiday season, I’m thrilled to share this Tart and Sweet Cranberry Sage Pie Recipe, a delightful twist on the classic cranberry sauce we all love. Imagine the perfect balance of bright, tangy cranberries, subtle warmth from fragrant sage, and just the right amount of sweetness wrapped in a buttery, flaky crust. This pie is not only stunning with its lattice top but also fills your kitchen with the most inviting aroma that will get everyone excited for dessert. It’s as festive as it is comforting, making it a must-try for your Thanksgiving or any autumn gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl filled with bright red cranberries sits in the top left corner on a white marbled surface. To its right, there is a larger white bowl filled with fine white granulated sugar. Below the cranberry bowl, a small white bowl holds a powdery white ingredient, likely baking soda or baking powder. Next to it is a half orange, bright with vibrant orange color. Above the orange, a tiny clear bowl holds raw egg yolk in a yellow color, and above that is a small bowl with a dark brown liquid, possibly vanilla. To the far right in the image, two beige rolled sheets of dough lie next to each other. Below the egg and vanilla, a small bowl contains finely chopped green leaves. Near the center bottom, a small clear bowl holds brown sugar, and next to it is a small bowl with butter cubes. To their right, a small clear bowl holds a mix of brown and white spices. Finally, on the bottom right, there's a white plate filled with smooth white cream or whipped topping. All ingredients are arranged neatly on the clean white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting this pie just right is all about simple ingredients that pack a flavorful punch. Each component plays a crucial role, from brightening the tart cranberries to adding depth with warm spices and that herby sage note. And of course, the pie crust brings everything together with its crisp, buttery texture.

6 cups fresh cranberries (or frozen, thawed and drained): The star ingredient, providing vibrant tartness and beautiful color.
2 ¼ cups granulated sugar: Sweetens and balances the cranberry’s natural tartness.
⅓ cup orange juice: Adds a fresh citrus zing that brightens the filling.
¼ cup cornstarch: Thickens the filling to hold its shape perfectly when sliced.
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Works with cornstarch for a silky, set filling.
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Warming spice that enhances the holiday flavor.
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: A subtle spiced note that complements the cinnamon and cranberries.
¼ teaspoon ground allspice: Adds complexity with its rich, clove-like flavor.
¼ teaspoon ground ginger: Provides a slight zing that livens up the filling.
¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the flavors.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Deepens the overall taste with smooth, sweet undertones.
2 premade raw pie crusts: Bring ease and a flaky, buttery base and top for the pie.
2 tablespoons butter, diced: Adds richness and lovely melt-in-your-mouth dots atop the filling.
1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage: Brings an aromatic, earthy touch essential for that unique flavor twist.
1 egg, beaten: Used to glaze the crust for a gorgeous golden finish.
2 tablespoons demerara or turbinado sugar: Sprinkled on top for a sweet, crunchy texture.
4 cups whipped topping or whipped cream: Perfect for serving, adding creamy contrast to the tart-sweet filling.

How to Make Tart and Sweet Cranberry Sage Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cranberries

Start by pulsing the cranberries in a food processor until finely chopped. This step takes a bit of patience but ensures your filling has a perfect, jammy texture rather than whole berries. Once chopped, toss them with sugar and let them rest for an hour to macerate. This rest time really softens the berries and lets the sugar permeate deeply into the mixture.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

After the macaration, stir in orange juice, cornstarch, flour, and all the warm spices plus salt and vanilla extract. This blend gives the filling a wonderfully balanced flavor, where each spice supports the tart cranberries without overpowering them. Simmer the filling gently until thickened, around 10 minutes. Stir often to prevent sticking and to encourage that luscious consistency.

Step 3: Prepare the Pie Crusts

While the filling cools, preheat your oven to 400°F and get your pie shells ready. Line a 9-inch pie plate with one crust, pressing it gently to fit, then cut the second crust into 1-inch strips for the lattice topping. This lattice is not just beautiful; it helps the pie steam just right and lets the filling peek through in a mouthwatering way.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

Pour the cooled cranberry filling into the pie shell, dot with butter, and sprinkle the sage evenly on top. The fresh sage is a game-changer, lending a subtle earthiness that sets this pie apart. Weave the lattice strips on top carefully, trim, and crimp the edges. Brush the crust with beaten egg for a shimmering, golden bake and sprinkle over the demerara sugar to add sparkle and crunch.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Bake the pie for 30 to 40 minutes until the crust is golden and the filling bubbles enticingly. If the crust browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil to prevent burning. Once out of the oven, allow the pie to cool for at least four hours. This wait is worth it — the filling sets beautifully, making slicing neat and serving a breeze.

How to Serve Tart and Sweet Cranberry Sage Pie Recipe

A round pie with a golden-brown lattice crust on top, showing red berry filling through the lattice gaps; the crust is shiny and has a sugary texture with a thick crimped edge around the pie. The pie is on a white plate on a white marbled surface. Around the pie, there are small white bowls, one filled with fresh red cranberries and another with green leaves. A sliced orange half is visible on the surface, alongside a gold spoon and fork, and a light beige cloth is partially under the pie and utensils. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A dollop of whipped cream or whipped topping on each slice adds an irresistible smoothness that complements the lively cranberry flavor. For an extra touch, consider a sprinkle of fresh sage leaves or a light dusting of cinnamon on top. These simple garnishes elevate both the look and flavor of the pie.

Side Dishes

This pie pairs gorgeously with a savory holiday meal, balancing out rich turkey, stuffing, or roasted vegetables. It also works well alongside a cheese and charcuterie board for a festive brunch. The tart and herbaceous notes in the pie brighten heavier dishes and add a wonderful seasonal contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual mini tartlets using the same filling for a charming presentation at parties. You can also layer slices with mascarpone or crème fraîche to create a stunning cranberry sage trifle. If you want to impress, plate warm slices with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkling of toasted nuts for textural contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover any leftover pie tightly with plastic wrap or foil and keep it refrigerated. The flavors actually develop more after a day, making it just as delicious the next day as it was fresh. Store for up to three days for the best texture and taste.

Freezing

You can freeze this pie either before or after baking. Wrap tightly in freezer-safe wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or serving cold. It’s a great way to prep in advance for a busy holiday schedule.

Reheating

To warm up slices, place them on a baking sheet and heat in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes. This brings back that fresh-baked texture and warming aroma. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crust crisp.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries for this pie?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid to avoid a soggy filling. Frozen cranberries can be a convenient substitute without sacrificing flavor.

What can I use instead of fresh sage?

If fresh sage isn’t available, dried sage works too, although it’s less vibrant. Use about one-third the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. Alternatively, experiment with fresh rosemary or thyme for a different herbaceous note.

Is there a vegan version of this pie?

You can easily adapt this recipe by swapping butter with a plant-based margarine and using a vegan pie crust. For the egg wash, use a mixture of plant milk and maple syrup or agave to achieve a nice golden crust.

How tart is the filling? Can I adjust the sweetness?

This Tart and Sweet Cranberry Sage Pie Recipe strikes a balanced harmony between tart and sweet. If you prefer a less tangy pie, feel free to add a bit more sugar to taste during the filling preparation stage. Just be mindful not to overpower the sage and spice notes.

Can this pie be made ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and crust separately a day in advance. Assemble and bake the pie on the day you plan to serve it for the freshest results. This helps cut down on holiday day stress while keeping everything delicious.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that combines familiar flavors in a fun and festive way, this Tart and Sweet Cranberry Sage Pie Recipe is a fantastic choice. It brings warmth, vibrant color, and a little herbal magic to your table, delighting both cranberry lovers and those eager to try something new. Trust me, once you make it, this pie will become a beloved tradition you’ll want to share year after year.

Tart and Sweet Cranberry Sage Pie Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need