Cranberry Orange Tart with Glaze

Name: Cranberry Orange Tart with Glaze
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 egg yolk; 1-2 tablespoons cold water; 2 cups fresh cranberries; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 1/4 cup fresh orange juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice; 1 teaspoon orange zest

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

This Cranberry Orange Tart with Glaze is a delightful dessert that combines the tartness of cranberries with the refreshing zest of oranges, all enveloped in a buttery crust and topped with a sweet glaze.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-12T19:25:50.135Z

This tart is perfect for the holiday season or any special occasion. The balance of sweet and tart flavors makes it a crowd favorite!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors
Beautiful presentation that impresses guests
The homemade glaze adds a delightful finish

      

The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

The Cranberry Orange Tart with Glaze is a fantastic dessert choice for various celebrations, from Thanksgiving dinner to holiday gatherings. Its vibrant colors and inviting aroma make it a show-stopper on any dessert table. The combination of tart cranberries and zesty oranges creates a refreshing contrast that is sure to please every palate. This tart not only satisfies sweet cravings but also brings a touch of elegance to your dining experience.

Whether you're hosting a festive party or simply enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this tart can elevate the mood. Its visually stunning presentation and delightful flavors are perfect for impressing guests. Additionally, the versatility of this dessert allows it to complement a range of main dishes, making it a harmonious addition to any meal.

A Simple Yet Impressive Recipe

One of the best features of this Cranberry Orange Tart with Glaze is its simplicity. Even novice bakers can successfully create this stunning dessert without feeling overwhelmed. The ingredients are straightforward, and the steps are easy to follow. With just a little bit of time and effort, you can produce a dessert that looks and tastes like it came from a gourmet bakery.

The tart crust is buttery and flaky, providing a perfect base for the sweet and tangy filling. The homemade glaze adds a final touch of sweetness and shine, making your tart not only delicious but also visually captivating. This recipe is a great way to build your baking confidence while impressing friends and family with your culinary skills.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

After preparing your Cranberry Orange Tart, you may wonder about the best ways to store it. If you have leftovers, simply cover the tart with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, to maintain the tart's flaky crust, it is recommended to enjoy it within the first couple of days.

For serving, consider garnishing the tart with fresh cranberries or orange zest for an added touch of elegance. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can also complement the flavors beautifully. This dessert pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it a delightful treat any time of the day.

Ingredients

For the tart crust

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 egg yolk
1-2 tablespoons cold water

For the cranberry filling

2 cups fresh cranberries
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon orange zest
1/4 cup fresh orange juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

For the glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
1 teaspoon orange zest

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Prepare the tart crust

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, butter, powdered sugar, and salt. Mix until crumbly. Add the egg yolk and cold water, mixing until a dough forms. Press the dough into a tart pan and chill for 15 minutes.

Bake the crust

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the chilled crust for 20 minutes or until lightly golden. Set aside to cool.

Make the cranberry filling

In a saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange zest, orange juice, cornstarch, and cinnamon. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Assemble the tart

Pour the cranberry filling into the cooled tart crust, spreading it evenly. Allow it to set for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled tart before serving.

Let the tart chill for an hour before slicing for the best texture!

Tips for Perfecting Your Tart

To ensure your tart crust turns out perfectly, be cautious not to overwork the dough. Mix the ingredients just until combined, and use cold water to help maintain the crust's texture. Chilling the dough before baking will also help prevent shrinkage and ensure a flaky finish.

When making the cranberry filling, keep an eye on the mixture as it cooks. The cranberries should burst and release their juices, resulting in a thickened filling. If desired, you can adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar if the tartness of the cranberries is too strong for your preference.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with this recipe by incorporating different flavors. For instance, you can add a hint of ginger or nutmeg to the cranberry filling for an extra layer of warmth and spice. Alternatively, mix in some finely chopped nuts or coconut flakes to the tart crust for added texture and flavor.

If cranberries are out of season, consider using other berries such as raspberries or blueberries. The tartness of these fruits can create a similar delightful balance with the orange zest and juice, ensuring your tart remains a crowd-pleaser no matter the fruit.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes, frozen cranberries work well. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make the crust ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the crust a day in advance and keep it wrapped in the fridge.

→ What can I substitute for orange juice?

You can use lemon juice for a different citrus flavor, but it will be more tart.