As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of freshly zested oranges danced through the air, instantly lifting my spirits. This is the magic of making a Cranberry Orange Pecan Crisp—it’s a delightful holiday dessert that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tart. With each bite, you’ll experience the burst of juicy cranberries paired with crunchy pecans and a buttery crumble topping, all elevated by the bright essence of orange. The best part? It’s a breeze to whip up in just about an hour, making it a fantastic option for any festive gathering or cozy family dinner. Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this dessert promises to become a cherished favorite. Curious to taste this sweet surprise? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Will You Love This Crisp?

Irresistible Flavor: The bright notes of fresh orange perfectly complement the tartness of cranberries, creating a flavor explosion that’s sure to delight your taste buds.

Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have this delectable dessert ready in approximately one hour, making it ideal for busy holiday gatherings.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether served at Thanksgiving or a casual summer BBQ, this Cranberry Orange Pecan Crisp is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more!

Texture Delight: Enjoy the contrast of the crunchy pecans and the gooey fruit filling, which combines beautifully for an unforgettable mouthfeel.

Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or pair it with whipped cream for an indulgent treat—perfect for any occasion. And if you’re looking for more delicious options, check out my Baked Parmesan Zucchini or Golden Brown Egg Rolls for fantastic recipes that cater to all tastes!

Cranberry Orange Pecan Crisp Ingredients

• Ready to make your own Cranberry Orange Pecan Crisp? Here’s everything you need!

For the Crisp Topping

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and texture for that signature crumble.
Light Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness with a hint of molasses; coconut sugar is a great alternative for a deeper flavor.
Butter (2 sticks) – Essential for a rich and crumbly topping; margarine can be used as a substitute, but may alter the flavor.

For the Filling

Fresh Cranberries (24 oz) – The star of the dish, delivering a tart burst; you can use frozen cranberries if needed.
Pecans (1 cup, chopped) – Adds delightful crunch and nutty flavors; walnuts may serve as a tasty alternative.
Orange Zest (from 2 oranges) – Enhances the citrus notes, and fresh is always best for potency.
Orange Juice (from 1 orange) – Fresh juice brightens the filling; bottled juice can suffice in a pinch.
Granulated Sugar (1 cup) – Balances the tartness of the cranberries perfectly.
Salt (½ teaspoon) – Enhances flavor; omit if you’re using salted butter.
Nutmeg (½ teaspoon) and Ground Cinnamon (1 teaspoon) – Spices that impart warmth; while optional, they’re highly recommended for depth of flavor.
Butter (¼ cup, sliced) – Placed atop the fruit mixture for added richness before baking.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Orange Pecan Crisp

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial as it ensures that your Cranberry Orange Pecan Crisp bakes evenly and the topping achieves that golden brown hue. Use a reliable oven thermometer to check the temperature, and get everything else prepared while it’s heating up.

Step 2: Prepare the Crisp Topping
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and light brown sugar until well-combined. Next, add the softened butter and mix on low speed with a hand mixer until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, about 2–3 minutes. This crumbly topping will create a delightful contrast to the tart cranberries later.

Step 3: Mix the Cranberry Filling
In another bowl, mix the granulated sugar, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon. After combining the dry ingredients, rinse a generous 24 oz of fresh cranberries, then toss them with the chopped pecans, orange zest, and orange juice in a large bowl. Gently fold in the sugar mixture until all the cranberries are evenly coated, allowing those flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Assemble the Crisp
Transfer your cranberry mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure every bite is packed with flavor. This layer of juicy cranberries will serve as the vibrant base of your Cranberry Orange Pecan Crisp, ready to soak in the sweet and tangy notes of the recipe.

Step 5: Add Butter and Top Topping
Place the sliced ¼ cup of butter evenly over the cranberry filling. This step adds richness and moisture as the crisp bakes. Afterward, spread the prepared flour mixture evenly across the top, ensuring a generous, crumbly layer that will form a delicious crispy crust as it bakes.

Step 6: Bake the Crisp
Slide the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and look for a golden-brown topping and bubbling filling as signs that your Cranberry Orange Pecan Crisp is ready. The delicious aroma wafting through your kitchen will be hard to resist during this time!

Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. This resting period helps the filling set slightly, making it easier to serve. Your warm Cranberry Orange Pecan Crisp is now ready to delight everyone, so scoop it into bowls and enjoy it with a dollop of ice cream or whipped cream for an extra treat!

Helpful Tricks for Cranberry Orange Pecan Crisp

Select Fresh Cranberries: Use only fresh cranberries; ensure they are bright and firm. Discard any bad ones to maintain the crisp’s overall flavor.
Mix with Care: When preparing the topping, mix just until crumbly. Overmixing can lead to a dense, undesirable texture instead of the light, crunchy topping.
Adjust Sweetness: Taste your cranberry mixture before baking. If it’s too tart, feel free to add a touch more sugar to balance it out, especially if your cranberries are especially sour.
Cool Before Serving: Allow the Cranberry Orange Pecan Crisp to sit for about 10 minutes after baking. This allows the filling to set for easier serving while keeping it warm.
Serve with Flair: To elevate your dessert, serve warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It transforms your crisp into a memorable holiday treat!

Make Ahead Options

These Cranberry Orange Pecan Crisp preparations are perfect for making life a little easier during busy holiday seasons! You can prepare the crisp topping up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the flour, brown sugar, and butter, then refrigerating it in an airtight container to maintain its crumbly texture. The filling can also be mixed and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days; just wait to add the butter on top until you’re ready to bake to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to bake, simply spread the topping over the fruit mixture and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have a delightful Cranberry Orange Pecan Crisp with minimal effort, making holiday entertaining a breeze!

Cranberry Orange Pecan Crisp Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize your Cranberry Orange Pecan Crisp with these delightful variations!

Nutty Twist: Substitute walnuts for pecans for a different nutty flavor that complements the tart cranberries beautifully.
Chewy Oats: Incorporate 1 cup of rolled oats into the crisp topping for added chewiness and a fiber boost that kids will love.
Spice It Up: Experiment by adding ½ teaspoon of grated ginger or a pinch of ground cloves for an aromatic kick that dances on your palate.
Citrus Burst: Mix in a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice along with the orange juice for an unexpected zing that elevates the overall flavor.
Maple Sweetness: Replace granulated sugar for a maple syrup drizzle in your filling to create a wonderfully sweet and aromatic profile.
Tropical Flair: Add ½ cup of shredded coconut to the topping for a delightful coconut crunch that pairs surprisingly well with the cranberries.
Gluten-Free Goodness: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour in the topping to create a lovely gluten-free version that everyone can enjoy.
Zesty Infusion: Toss in a few tbsps of grated lime zest combined with the orange zest for a citrus explosion that will brighten your dessert.

With these variations, your Cranberry Orange Pecan Crisp can be tailored to suit any mood or occasion! And for more delicious ideas, check out my tasty Baked Parmesan Zucchini or dive into the world of crispy delights with my Golden Brown Egg Rolls. Happy cooking!

What to Serve with Cranberry Orange Pecan Crisp

Elevate your dessert experience with delightful pairings that complement the sweet and tart flavors of this holiday favorite.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture and sweet flavor provide a perfect balance to the tartness of the crisp. A scoop of vanilla ice cream as it melts into the warm dessert makes for an indulgent treat.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a delightful touch of sweetness and creaminess that enhances every bite. Consider drizzling a bit of honey over the whipped cream for an extra flavor boost.
Hot Chocolate: The rich, chocolatey goodness of a warm cup of cocoa is an ideal accompaniment, particularly on chilly evenings. The combination of chocolate and orange creates a comforting sensation.
Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider brings a seasonal beverage that complements the festive flavors of the crisp without overpowering them. Serve it warm in a cozy mug for a lovely contrast of warmth.
Coffee or Espresso: Pair your dessert with a freshly brewed cup of coffee or a rich espresso. The bitter notes of coffee balance perfectly with the sweetness, enhancing the overall dessert experience.
Chocolate Ganache: A drizzle of silky chocolate ganache can elevate your crisp to a gourmet dessert. The luscious chocolate adds depth while still allowing the fruity flavors to shine through.
Cheese Platter: Serve it alongside a cheese platter that includes sharp cheddar or creamy brie. The saltiness of the cheese creates a fantastic contrast and adds sophisticated flavors to your dessert spread.
Seasonal Fruit: Accompany your crisp with slices of poached pears or fresh orange segments. The fresh, fruity elements enhance the dessert while adding a refreshing touch to cleanse the palate.

Storage Tips for Cranberry Orange Pecan Crisp

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and ready for a quick dessert fix.

Freezer: Keep in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn, and it’s perfect for future holiday gatherings!

Reheating: To serve, reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire crisp in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, until heated through and crispy on top. Enjoy your delicious Cranberry Orange Pecan Crisp!

Cranberry Orange Pecan Crisp Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right cranberries for my crisp?
Absolutely! Look for fresh cranberries that are bright and firm. Avoid any with dark spots or that feel soft, as they may spoil the flavor of your crisp. If fresh cranberries are unavailable, you can substitute them with frozen cranberries, but remember to thaw and drain them before use to prevent excess moisture.

What is the best way to store leftover Cranberry Orange Pecan Crisp?
Very! To keep your crisp fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This will maintain its flavors and texture. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing it up to prevent condensation forming inside the container.

Can I freeze my Cranberry Orange Pecan Crisp?
Of course! To freeze, wrap the cooled crisp tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. This will prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven to restore its crispiness.

What if my topping comes out too dense after baking?
No need to worry! If your crisp topping turns out more dense than crumbly, it could be due to overmixing the butter and flour. Next time, mix only until combined, allowing some butter pieces to remain, which will create that perfect crunchy texture when baked.

Are there any dietary considerations for this dessert?
Yes! For those with nut allergies, you can easily substitute pecans with sunflower seeds or omit them altogether. Also, if you’re making it for pets, be mindful that cranberries aren’t toxic to dogs, but make sure to keep their portions small and avoid adding any sugar or sweeteners that could be harmful.