This rustic cranberry apple crostata is a delightful dessert that brings together the tartness of cranberries and the sweetness of apples. Perfect for the fall season, this crostata combines a buttery, flaky crust with a spiced fruit filling, making it a warm and inviting treat.
While most of the ingredients for this recipe are common pantry staples, you might need to pick up Ocean Spray® Craisins® dried cranberries and Ocean Spray® cranberry juice cocktail. These add a unique tartness and depth of flavor to the crostata. Ensure the apples you choose are firm and suitable for baking.
Ingredients For Cranberry Apple Crostata
All-purpose flour: Essential for the crust, providing structure and texture.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the crust, balancing the tartness of the filling.
Fine sea salt: Enhances the flavors of both the crust and filling.
Unsalted butter: Gives the crust its flaky and rich texture.
Ice water: Helps bring the dough together without making it too sticky.
Ocean Spray® Craisins® dried cranberries: Adds a tart and chewy element to the filling.
Ocean Spray® cranberry juice cocktail: Infuses the cranberries with additional flavor.
Baking apples: Provides the sweet and tender base of the filling.
Brown sugar: Adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness to the filling.
Cinnamon: Brings warmth and spice to the filling, complementing the fruit.
Egg: Used for the egg wash, giving the crust a golden brown finish.
One reader, Israel Hyatt says:
This cranberry apple crostata recipe is a delightful treat! The combination of tart cranberries and sweet apples wrapped in a buttery crust is simply irresistible. Perfect for any occasion, it’s easy to make and impresses every time. Highly recommend!
Techniques Required for Making a Cranberry Apple Crostata
How to pulse ingredients in a food processor: Pulse the flour, sugar, salt, and butter pieces until the butter is incorporated into small, pea-size pieces. How to test dough consistency: Press a small amount of dough together to see if it holds together firmly. If it feels dry or crumbly, add more ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time. How to soak cranberries: Heat the cranberries and cranberry juice in a microwave-safe bowl for 30 to 45 seconds, then let them soak for 15 minutes. How to prepare apples: Peel, core, and cut the apples into quarters, then cut each quarter into 4 to 5 wedges. How to fold ingredients: Fold the cranberries into the apple wedges, and then fold the sugar mixture into the apples. How to roll dough: Roll the dough into a 13-inch circle on a floured work surface. How to assemble crostata: Mound the filling in the center of the dough, leaving a 3-inch border, then fold the dough over the fruit, pleating as necessary and pressing gently to seal the pleats. How to apply egg wash: Brush the dough with the egg wash before baking.
How To Make Cranberry Apple Crostata
This crostata recipe is a take on the Italian baked pie or tart. In this dish, the filling is made with cranberry and apple for a rustic autumn dessert.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Dough:
- 1½cupsall-purpose flour
- 2tbspgranulated sugar
- ½tspfine sea salt
- ½cupunsalted butter,very cold, cut into ½-inch cubes
- 5tbspice water,plus more as needed
For Filling:
- ½cupOcean Spray® Craisins® dried cranberries
- ¼cupOcean Spray® Cranberry juice cocktail
- 3large baking apples,(such as honeycrisp, macoun, or empire)
- ¼cupall-purpose flour
- 3tbspbrown sugar
- ½tspcinnamon
- ½tspsalt
For Egg Wash:
- 1egg,(well beaten with 1 tbsp water)
Instructions
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In a food processor, pulse the flour, sugar, salt, and butter pieces until the butter is incorporated into small, pea-size pieces. Open the lid, add 3 tablespoons of the ice water, and pulse again until the mixture looks uniform.
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Press a small amount of dough together. It should hold together firmly. If it feels dry or crumbly and doesn’t hold together well, add more ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time.
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Turn the dough out onto the countertop, and press into a flat disk. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 days.
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In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the cranberries and cranberry juice for 30 to 45 seconds, or until warm. Let the cranberries soak for 15 minutes while preparing the filling. Drain and set aside 1 rounded tablespoon of cranberries for garnish.
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Peel, core, and cut the apples into quarters. Cut each quarter into 4 to 5 wedges and place in large mixing bowl. Fold in the cranberries. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Fold the sugar mixture into the apples and set aside.
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Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
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On a floured work surface, roll the dough into a 13-inch circle. Place circle on a prepared baking sheet.
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Mound the filling in the center of the dough, leaving a 3-inch border all around. Fold the dough over the fruit, pleating as necessary and pressing gently to seal the pleats. Brush the dough with the egg wash.
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Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the apples are tender, the filling bubbles and the crust is golden brown.
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Remove from the oven and sprinkle with the reserved cranberries. Place the baking sheet on a wire rack to cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutrition
- Calories: 395.48kcal
- Fat: 16.68g
- Saturated Fat: 10.03g
- Trans Fat: 0.62g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4.30g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.98g
- Carbohydrates: 58.72g
- Fiber: 3.86g
- Sugar: 25.76g
- Protein: 5.08g
- Cholesterol: 67.33mg
- Sodium: 403.81mg
- Calcium: 27.08mg
- Potassium: 163.85mg
- Iron: 2.04mg
- Vitamin A: 143.62µg
- Vitamin C: 8.38mg
Helpful Technique Tip for Making a Perfect Crostata
When making the dough, ensure that the butter is very cold. This helps create a flaky texture in the crust. You can even chill the flour and food processor bowl for about 15 minutes before starting.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Crostata Recipe
Prepare the filling: Soak craisins and cranberry juice while making the dough to save time.
Use a food processor: Quickly pulse flour, sugar, salt, and butter for a fast and uniform dough.
Pre-cut apples: Peel, core, and slice apples ahead of time and store them in the fridge.
Preheat the oven: Start preheating the oven while assembling the crostata to save waiting time.
Egg wash ready: Beat the egg for the wash in advance and keep it in the fridge.
Substitute Ingredients For Cranberry Apple Crostata Recipe
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and more fiber, though it may make the dough slightly denser.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a slight caramel flavor.
fine sea salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt has larger grains, so use slightly more to achieve the same saltiness.
unsalted butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used for a dairy-free option, though it may alter the flavor slightly.
ice water - Substitute with cold milk: Cold milk can add a bit of richness to the dough.
ocean spray® craisins® dried cranberries - Substitute with dried cherries: Dried cherries provide a similar tartness and chewy texture.
ocean spray® cranberry juice cocktail - Substitute with apple juice: Apple juice can add a similar sweetness and moisture to the filling.
baking apples - Substitute with pears: Pears offer a similar texture and sweetness when baked.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can thicken the filling without adding any additional flavor.
brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a unique flavor and sweetness, though it will make the filling more liquid.
cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg provides a warm, spicy flavor that complements fruit well.
salt - Substitute with lemon zest: Lemon zest can enhance the fruit flavors without adding saltiness.
egg - Substitute with milk: Milk can be used for an egg wash to help with browning, though it won't provide the same shine.
Best Way to Present This Delightful Crostata
Create a delicate base: Roll out the dough to a precise 13-inch circle, ensuring an even thickness. This will provide a uniform, crisp base for the crostata.
Layer the filling artfully: Arrange the apple wedges and cranberries in a visually appealing pattern, alternating colors and shapes to create a mosaic-like effect in the center of the dough.
Perfect the pleats: Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, creating neat, even pleats. This not only secures the filling but also adds a rustic elegance to the presentation.
Brush with precision: Apply the egg wash evenly over the pleated dough to ensure a golden, glossy finish. This step enhances the visual appeal and adds a professional touch.
Bake to perfection: Monitor the crostata closely while baking to achieve a perfectly golden-brown crust and bubbling, tender apples. This ensures both visual and textural excellence.
Garnish thoughtfully: Once baked, sprinkle the reserved cranberries over the top for a pop of color and added texture. This final touch elevates the dish's presentation.
Serve with finesse: Allow the crostata to cool slightly before slicing. Serve each piece on a pristine white plate, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for contrast and added indulgence.
Storing and Freezing Your Cranberry Apple Crostata
- Let the cranberry apple crostata cool completely on a wire rack before storing or freezing.
- To store, cover the crostata tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To freeze, wrap the cooled crostata securely in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
- When ready to serve, thaw the frozen crostata in the refrigerator overnight.
- To reheat, remove the plastic wrap and foil, and place the crostata on a baking sheet. Warm in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the crust is crisp.
- For best results, avoid freezing the crostata with the garnished cranberries on top, as they may become soggy upon thawing. Instead, add the reserved cranberries after reheating the thawed crostata.
- If you plan to freeze individual slices, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag. This allows for easier portion control and quicker thawing when you're ready to enjoy a slice of this delightful dessert.
How to Reheat Leftover Crostata
To reheat leftover cranberry apple crostata, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the crostata on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. This will prevent the crust from browning too quickly while allowing the filling to heat through. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crostata is warmed to your liking. Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of reheating to crisp up the crust.
For a quicker method, you can use the microwave. Cut the leftover crostata into individual slices and place them on a microwave-safe plate. Heat the slices on high power for 30-45 seconds, or until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat the crostata, as this can cause the crust to become soggy. If you prefer a crispier crust, you can place the microwaved slices under the broiler for a minute or two, watching closely to prevent burning.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your leftover crostata slices. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the slices in the basket, making sure they don't overlap. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the crostata is warmed through and the crust is crispy. This method is ideal for achieving a crispy crust without the need for additional appliances.
For a stovetop method, place a slice of leftover crostata in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Cover the skillet with a lid and heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the crostata is warmed through. This method helps to crisp up the bottom of the crust while gently reheating the apple and cranberry filling.
If you want to enjoy your leftover crostata at room temperature, simply remove it from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to develop and the crust to soften slightly. Room temperature crostata can be just as delicious as freshly baked, and it's perfect for a quick breakfast or snack on the go.
Interesting Fact About Cranberry Apple Crostatas
A crostata is an Italian baked tart or pie, often filled with fruit like apples and cranberries. This rustic dessert is known for its free-form crust, which is folded over the edges of the filling, giving it a charming, homemade appearance.
Is Making a Cranberry Apple Crostata Economical for Home Cooking?
This cranberry apple crostata recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like apples, flour, and butter are affordable and commonly found in most kitchens. Specialty items like craisins and cranberry juice add a slight cost but are not overly expensive. Overall, the approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$12 USD. Considering the delightful taste and the use of fresh fruits, I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness.
Is This Crostata Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
The cranberry apple crostata recipe, while delicious, may not be the healthiest option due to several factors:
- The dough contains a significant amount of butter and sugar, which are high in saturated fat and added sugars.
- The filling includes brown sugar, adding more sugar to the recipe.
- The recipe does not specify the type of apples used, but some varieties may have higher sugar content than others.
However, there are some positive aspects to the recipe:
- The use of whole apples provides dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- Cranberries are a good source of antioxidants and vitamin C.
- The recipe does not include any artificial ingredients or preservatives.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to increase the fiber content and nutritional value of the crust.
- Reduce the amount of sugar in the dough and filling, or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup instead.
- Use a mix of tart and sweet apple varieties to balance the sugar content and add depth of flavor.
- Increase the amount of cranberries in the filling to boost the antioxidant content and reduce the overall sugar proportion.
- Serve the crostata with a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of ice cream or whipped cream to add protein and reduce added sugars.
Editor's Opinion on This Cranberry Apple Crostata Recipe
This cranberry apple crostata recipe is a delightful blend of tart and sweet flavors, perfect for autumn. The buttery, flaky crust complements the juicy apples and tangy cranberries beautifully. The addition of cranberry juice to rehydrate the dried cranberries adds a unique depth of flavor. The process is straightforward, making it accessible for home bakers, yet the result is impressively elegant. The egg wash ensures a golden, crisp finish, and the reserved cranberries add a lovely visual touch. Overall, it's a well-balanced dessert that would be a hit at any gathering.
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Why trust this Cranberry Apple Crostata Recipe:
This cranberry apple crostata recipe combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of apples, creating a perfect balance of flavors. The homemade dough ensures a flaky, buttery crust, while the brown sugar and cinnamon add a warm, comforting touch. Soaking the craisins in cranberry juice enhances their flavor, making each bite delightful. This recipe has been meticulously tested to guarantee success, making it a reliable choice for both novice and experienced bakers.
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