The holiday season is all about family, fun, and, of course, food! If you're looking for a way to include your little one in the festive feast, this Baby-Friendly Cranberry Pie is the perfect choice. Made with fresh cranberries, a soft and easy-to-eat whole wheat crust, and naturally sweetened with applesauce, this pie is not only baby-friendly but also full of nutrients to support your little one's growth.
In this post, we’ll show you how to make this sweet, tangy, and soft cranberry pie that will leave both you and your baby smiling during the holidays.
Recipe: Baby-Friendly Cranberry Pie
Why It’s Great for Babies
- Packed with Nutrients: Cranberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, which are great for supporting your baby’s immune system.
- Gentle and Tasty: The naturally sweetened filling and soft crust make this a delightful treat without any added sugar, making it perfect for your baby.
- Easy to Eat: The soft, smooth texture is easy for babies to enjoy, especially if they’re just starting solids or enjoying finger foods.
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or mashed ripe banana (for sweetness)
- A pinch of cinnamon (optional)
For the Crust:
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or coconut oil
- 2-3 tablespoons cold water (as needed to bind dough)
- A pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, rolled oats, and salt. Add applesauce and olive oil (or coconut oil) and mix until combined. Slowly add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Press the dough into a small pie dish, making sure it covers the bottom and sides evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a saucepan, combine cranberries, applesauce, water, and maple syrup (or mashed banana). Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries soften and burst. Stir occasionally. Once the mixture thickens slightly, remove from heat and allow it to cool.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Pour the cranberry filling into the prepared pie crust. Spread it evenly with a spoon. Optionally, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon on top for extra flavor.
Step 4: Bake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the pie for about 20-25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Let the pie cool completely before serving to your baby.
Step 5: Serve
Cut the pie into small, baby-friendly pieces. Serve at a safe temperature for your little one to enjoy.
Serving Tips:
- Perfect for Baby-Led Weaning (BLW): Once the pie cools, you can serve it in small, finger-food-sized pieces for your baby to explore on their own.
- A Festive Treat: This cranberry pie is perfect for the holidays and will fit right into your baby’s festive meals!
- Store Leftovers: Keep any leftover pie in the fridge for up to 2 days. You can also freeze individual slices for future holiday celebrations.
Why Moms Love This Recipe
- Nutritious and Flavorful: This pie offers your baby a delicious way to enjoy antioxidants and vitamins, while the soft texture makes it easy to eat.
- Sweetened Naturally: With applesauce and mashed banana as the primary sweeteners, it’s a healthier alternative to sugary desserts.
- Baby-Friendly and Customizable: This pie is perfect for babies of all ages, and you can adjust the ingredients as needed, such as swapping out the applesauce for pears or using a different spice instead of cinnamon.
Conclusion
This Baby-Friendly Cranberry Pie is a great addition to your little one’s holiday menu! Packed with wholesome ingredients, it's a delightful treat that’s easy for babies to eat and enjoy. Not only will it make your baby’s first holiday season special, but it’s also a recipe you can feel good about. So, get into the festive spirit and treat your little one to this sweet, nutritious cranberry pie!
Call to Action:
Have you tried making holiday desserts for your little one? Let us know how they liked it or share your favorite baby-friendly holiday recipes in the comments below! Don’t forget to follow us for more festive meal ideas and healthy recipes for your baby.