If you’re looking for a festive treat that perfectly balances tartness, sweetness, and a satisfying crunch, this Cranberry Orange Pecan Crisp (Easy Holiday Dessert Bake) Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s bursting with fresh cranberries, bright orange zest and juice, and toasted pecans, all wrapped under a buttery, crumbly topping that bakes to golden perfection. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just want a refreshing, cozy dessert, this recipe brings all the flavors and textures together in one irresistible dish that’s both simple to make and sure to impress.

Cranberry Orange Pecan Crisp (Easy Holiday Dessert Bake) Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this Cranberry Orange Pecan Crisp (Easy Holiday Dessert Bake) Recipe lies in the simplicity and quality of the ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role—from providing sweetness and spice to adding richness and crunch. Having them ready ensures your dessert will be bursting with flavor and perfect texture.

All-purpose flour: The base for the crisp topping, giving it structure and that irresistible crumbly texture.
Light brown sugar: Adds a subtle caramel note and moisture to the topping.
Butter: Essential for richness in both the crisp topping and the fruit filling, plus helps the topping brown beautifully.
Fresh cranberries: The star of the filling, delivering that signature tartness and vibrant color.
Pecans, chopped: Provide a delightful nuttiness and crunch to complement the fruit.
Orange zest and juice: Bring brightness and a fresh citrus aroma that elevate the cranberries.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling, balancing the tart cranberries perfectly.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors and rounds out the sweetness.
Nutmeg: Adds a warm, cozy spice that deepens the flavor profile.
Ground cinnamon: Infuses the crisp with an inviting holiday spice.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Pecan Crisp (Easy Holiday Dessert Bake) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Crisp Topping

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and light brown sugar to evenly distribute the ingredients. Then add 1 cup (2 sticks) of butter, and use a mixer on low speed to blend everything into a crumbly topping. This buttery mixture will bake up crispy and golden to offer that perfect contrast to the juicy cranberry filling underneath.

Step 2: Make the Cranberry Filling

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, salt, nutmeg, and ground cinnamon—these spices add wonderful warmth and balance to the tart cranberries. Rinse 24 ounces of fresh cranberries and place them in a large bowl. Add the chopped pecans, the zest from two large oranges, and the juice from one orange to the cranberries. Pour the sugar-spice mixture over the fruit and gently toss everything until the cranberries and nuts are thoroughly coated. This is the heart of your crisp’s vibrant, tangy, sweet layer.

Step 3: Assemble the Crisp

Pour the luscious cranberry mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Dot the filling with the remaining ¼ cup of butter, slicing it into small pieces and distributing them randomly across the top—this little addition keeps the filling rich and helps create those gorgeous bubbling spots when baking. Finally, scatter the crumbly topping evenly over the fruit mixture.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling

Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 45 to 55 minutes. The top should be a beautiful golden brown and crisp, while the cranberries underneath will bubble up enticingly. Keep an eye on it towards the end, as ovens can vary, but this is your cue that the Cranberry Orange Pecan Crisp (Easy Holiday Dessert Bake) Recipe is ready to enjoy.

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Pecan Crisp (Easy Holiday Dessert Bake) Recipe

Garnishes

Serving this crisp warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream instantly elevates it. For an extra touch, sprinkle on some chopped toasted pecans or a few fresh cranberries and orange zest curls to brighten the presentation. These little garnishes bring a professional look and enhance each bite with texture and color.

Side Dishes

This dessert pairs beautifully with a hot cup of spiced tea, coffee, or even mulled wine, especially during cold weather. For a brunch twist, serve alongside creamy yogurt or a mild cheesecake for a satisfying balance of flavors. The rich, tangy crisp provides the perfect counterpoint to simply flavored sides.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress guests, consider serving individual portions in ramekins or mini cast iron skillets. Layer some crisp topping and filling, then bake them separately for a charming, personalized experience. This Cranberry Orange Pecan Crisp (Easy Holiday Dessert Bake) Recipe also works great as a topping for pancakes or oatmeal if you want to switch things up.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover crisp covered tightly with plastic wrap or foil at room temperature for up to two days, or in the refrigerator for up to four days. The topping remains pleasantly crisp, but if it softens, simply warm it slightly before serving.

Freezing

This crisp freezes wonderfully both before and after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the fruit and topping in a freezer-safe dish, then cover tightly and freeze for up to three months. When ready to bake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then proceed with baking instructions. For leftover baked crisp, allow it to cool completely, portion into airtight containers, and freeze for up to two months.

Reheating

To reheat, pop a serving in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes or until warmed through to bring back that crispy topping. Avoid the microwave if possible to preserve texture. A quick reheat is all it takes to enjoy the Cranberry Orange Pecan Crisp (Easy Holiday Dessert Bake) Recipe just as freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes! Frozen cranberries work well in this recipe. Just thaw and drain any excess liquid before mixing with the other ingredients to prevent the filling from becoming too watery.

What if I don’t have pecans? Can I use another nut?

Absolutely. Walnuts or almonds are great alternatives that provide a similar crunch and nutty flavor. Just chop them roughly and use the same quantity as pecans.

Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?

You could adapt it by substituting the butter with a vegan butter or coconut oil, but remember the flavor and texture might be slightly different. The cranberries and pecans themselves are naturally vegan-friendly.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, by swapping the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking, you can enjoy a gluten-free version while keeping that delicious topping intact.

How can I make the topping extra crispy?

For an especially crunchy topping, try to keep the butter cold before mixing and avoid over-mixing. Also, sprinkling a little coarse sugar on top before baking adds extra crunch and sparkle.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dessert that’s both festive and comforting, this Cranberry Orange Pecan Crisp (Easy Holiday Dessert Bake) Recipe is a must-try. It combines fresh, zesty flavors with buttery crunch in a way that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. I promise, once you make this, it will quickly become a seasonal favorite to share with family and friends. So go ahead, bake it with love, and watch it disappear in no time.

Cranberry Orange Pecan Crisp (Easy Holiday Dessert Bake) Recipe