Cranberry Galette Recipe
If you are craving a dessert that is both rustic and bursting with bright, tangy flavor, this Cranberry Galette Recipe is exactly what you need on your table. A galette is essentially a freeform tart, and this version showcases fresh cranberries wrapped in a buttery, flaky crust that simply melts in your mouth. It’s the perfect way to bring a touch of elegance to your dessert game without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this Cranberry Galette Recipe, it’ll quickly become one of your favorite treats to share with friends and family all year round.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Cranberry Galette Recipe plays a vital role in creating that ideal balance of flavor and texture. The simplicity of the list means you can gather these essentials quickly, yet each one brings a unique touch—whether it’s the crisp tartness of cranberries, the warmth of cinnamon, or the richness of cold butter that makes the crust so flaky.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of our crust, it gives structure and creates that tender yet sturdy base.
- Unsalted butter (cold, cubed): Cold butter ensures a flaky, buttery crust by creating pockets of steam as it bakes.
- Granulated sugar (adjust for sweetness): Adds just the right hint of sweetness to balance the tart cranberries.
- Fresh cranberries (or frozen, thawed and drained): The star of the show, cranberries give the galette its vibrant color and lively tart flavor.
- Cinnamon: A warm spice that complements the cranberries perfectly and adds depth to the filling.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors, making sure nothing tastes flat.
- Ice water: Helps bring the dough together while keeping the butter cold for maximum flakiness.
How to Make Cranberry Galette Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by combining the all-purpose flour and salt in a bowl. Then, add your cold, cubed butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to mix until you get coarse crumbs, similar to the texture of small peas. This is key to developing that perfect flaky crust. Gradually sprinkle in the ice water—just enough so the dough holds together when you press it. Avoid adding too much water, or it could get tough. Wrap the dough in plastic and chill it for at least one hour; this resting period lets the gluten relax and keeps the butter firm for better layers.
Step 2: Make the Filling
While the dough chills, toss your fresh cranberries with granulated sugar and cinnamon in a separate bowl. This mix lets the sugar soften the cranberries’ natural tartness and infuses the filling with a lovely hint of spice. Let it sit for about 10 minutes so those flavors can marry nicely.
Step 3: Roll It Out
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly flour your work surface and roll the chilled dough into a rough 12-inch circle. Don’t stress about making it perfectly round—that rustic, handmade look is part of the galette’s charm and character. Carefully transfer the dough onto a piece of parchment paper to make transferring to the oven a breeze.
Step 4: Assemble
Pile the cranberry filling in the center of your rolled dough, leaving about 2-3 inches of border free. Now, gently fold the edges over the filling, creating pleats as you go around. This not only keeps all those delicious berries inside but also gives your galette its signature rustic look.
Step 5: Bake
Before popping it into the oven, brush the exposed crust with melted butter and sprinkle a little sugar on top—this adds a beautiful golden finish and a slight crunch. Bake your galette for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the crust is a gorgeous golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Let it cool for a bit to set before slicing.
How to Serve Cranberry Galette Recipe
Garnishes
A Cranberry Galette Recipe is delightful on its own, but a few thoughtful garnishes can truly elevate it. Try dusting powdered sugar on top for a pretty, snowy effect or add a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream to bring creamy richness that balances the tartness. Fresh mint leaves also add a lovely pop of color and freshness that complements the warm cranberries perfectly.
Side Dishes
This galette shines as a dessert but also pairs wonderfully alongside savory dishes if you’re serving it at a holiday or dinner party. Think roasted turkey or grilled pork with herbaceous sides. It can also hold its own alongside a cheese platter with a selection of cheeses and nuts, offering a sweet-tart counterpoint to stronger cheeses.
Creative Ways to Present
To make your Cranberry Galette Recipe presentation extra special, consider serving individual galettes in small cast iron skillets or on charming wooden boards. You can drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and lemon juice over the top for an elegant touch. For gatherings, cutting the galette into wedges and arranging them on a color-coordinated dessert table invites guests to dive right in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to five days. Reheating gently will help revive that flaky crust and warm the filling just right.
Freezing
You can freeze the galette either before baking by wrapping it tightly in plastic and foil or after baking once cooled. Frozen galettes will keep well for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven to maintain the best texture.
Reheating
For the best taste and texture, reheat your Cranberry Galette Recipe in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This helps keep the crust crisp and the filling warm without drying it out. Avoid the microwave if possible since it can make the crust soggy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries for this Cranberry Galette Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture, which can make the crust soggy. Frozen cranberries still bring that beautiful tart flavor and vibrant color.
How do I make the crust extra flaky?
Keeping your butter cold and not overworking the dough are key. Using ice water and chilling the dough before rolling it out helps create those lovely flaky layers.
Is it possible to make this galette gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Just be sure to check if any additional binding agents are needed according to your blend’s instructions.
Can I prepare the cranberry filling in advance?
You can prepare the filling a few hours ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. Just stir it a bit before assembling to redistribute juices and sugar.
What should I do if the dough is too sticky to roll out?
Dust your surface and rolling pin lightly with flour, and chill the dough longer if needed. Sticky dough usually means the butter is warming up too fast, so keeping everything cool is essential.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am for you to try this Cranberry Galette Recipe. It’s such a charming, comforting dessert that combines that perfect mix of sweet and tart with a flaky, buttery crust. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, it’s guaranteed to bring a smile to everyone’s face. So roll up your sleeves, gather the ingredients, and enjoy the cozy, delicious magic of your very own cranberry galette!
Print
Cranberry Galette Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rustic and delicious Cranberry Galette featuring a flaky, buttery crust wrapped around a sweet-tart cranberry filling, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy desserts.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
- 4–6 tbsp ice water
For the Filling
- 2 cups fresh cranberries (or frozen, thawed and drained)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (adjust for sweetness)
- 1 tsp cinnamon
For Finishing
- Butter, melted (for brushing)
- Additional sugar (for sprinkling)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just holds together. Form the dough into a disk, cover with plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Make the Filling: In a separate bowl, toss the fresh or thawed and drained cranberries with granulated sugar and cinnamon. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes, allowing the cranberries to macerate slightly and the flavors to develop.
- Roll It Out: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, roll the chilled dough into a rough 12-inch circle, keeping it slightly thicker around the edges to support the filling.
- Assemble: Transfer the rolled dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spoon the cranberry filling into the center, leaving a 2-inch border. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling in pleats, creating a rustic edge that partially covers the fruit.
- Bake: Brush the exposed crust edges with melted butter and sprinkle lightly with additional sugar to enhance browning and sweetness. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cranberry filling is bubbly. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For a sweeter galette, increase the sugar in the filling slightly.
- Frozen cranberries work well but ensure they are completely thawed and drained to prevent soggy crust.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra treat.
- Chilling the dough is essential to achieve a flaky crust.
- Optional: Brush the crust with an egg wash for a shinier finish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
