With the first chill of autumn in the air, the kitchen beckons with promise and warmth. One of my favorite ways to celebrate the season is by making a Rustic Cranberry Apple Galette. This easy fruit dessert showcases the delightful marriage of tart cranberries and sweet apples, all encased in a buttery, flaky crust that you’ll want to savor bite after bite. Not only does this galette make for an impressive centerpiece at any gathering, but it also comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or festive occasions. Packed with seasonal flavors and customizable to your liking, it invites endless creativity while still being simple enough for any skill level. Are you ready to dive into the comforts of fall baking with me?
Why is a Cranberry Apple Galette perfect?
Simplicity at its Best: This galette takes minimal effort, making it ideal for novice bakers and seasoned pros alike.
Seasonal Delight: Enjoy the harmonious blend of fall flavors, with tart cranberries and sweet apples.
Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap apples for pears or berries, tailoring it to your taste.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Serve it warm with ice cream, and watch your guests smile in delight.
Make Ahead & Store: It keeps well for days in the fridge or freezer, perfect for preparing in advance.
Embrace the cozy atmosphere of autumn with this delicious dessert, and if you’re looking for more quick treats, check out my Cranberry Brie Bites and Oatmeal Apple Cake for delightful inspirations!
Cranberry Apple Galette Ingredients
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For the Crust
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for the crust; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flakiness to the crust; can be swapped with plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.
• Brown Sugar – Sweetens the crust and enhances flavor depth; maple syrup can offer a lovely alternative sweet profile.
• Salt – Balances flavors and enhances sweetness; essential for improved taste.
• Ice Water – Helps to bind the dough without making it tough; ensure it’s cold for better dough consistency. -
For the Filling
• Fresh Cranberries – Provides tartness and vibrant color; dried cranberries (soaked in water) may be a substitute if needed.
• Apples (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith) – Add sweetness and texture to the filling; can replace with pears for a softer flavor.
• Cinnamon – Offers warmth and aromatic spice; essential for a cozy flavor profile in the cranberry apple galette.
This delightful Rustic Cranberry Apple Galette is a beautiful way to welcome the flavors of fall into your kitchen. Enjoy crafting this simple yet impressive dessert!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Apple Galette
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and 2 tablespoons of brown sugar. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut in ½ cup of unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add 5–6 tablespoons of ice water, mixing until a dough forms. Shape it into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Prep the Filling
While the dough chills, wash and slice 3–4 medium apples, preferably Honeycrisp or Granny Smith, into thin wedges. In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples with 1 cup of fresh cranberries, ½ cup of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Gently toss the ingredients together until well coated, then set the bowl aside to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Assemble the Galette
After chilling, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a floured surface and using a rolling pin, roll the dough into a 12-inch circle about ⅛ inch thick. Transfer the rolled dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Center the prepared fruit mixture onto the dough, leaving a border of about 2 inches around. Fold the edges over the filling, pleating as you go to create a rustic look.
Step 4: Bake
Before placing the galette in the oven, brush the crust with an egg wash made from a beaten egg mixed with a tablespoon of water. Sprinkle the edges with raw sugar for added sweetness and crunch. Bake the galette in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Keep an eye on it in the last few minutes for perfect doneness.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the cranberry apple galette from the oven and allow it to cool on the baking sheet for about 15 minutes. This cooling period helps the filling set a bit. Slice the galette into wedges and serve warm, ideally topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an added treat.
Expert Tips for Cranberry Apple Galette
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Chill Your Dough: Ensure that your dough is well-chilled before rolling it out. This helps maintain a flaky texture and reduces the risk of a soggy crust.
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Don’t Overfill: Be mindful not to overstuff the filling, as this can make your crust soggy. A good ratio keeps it fresh and crisp, showcasing the cranberry apple flavors.
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Use a Hot Baking Sheet: Preheat your baking sheet before placing your galette on it. This crucial step helps crisp the bottom, ensuring that every bite is as delightful as the last.
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Egg Wash Magic: Brush the crust with egg wash for a golden hue. Consider using raw sugar on top for an extra crunch that enhances the rustic look of your cranberry apple galette.
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Creative Serving: Warm up the leftover galette in the oven before serving and pair it with a drizzle of caramel sauce or homemade whipped cream to elevate the flavors.
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Storage Tips: To keep your galette fresh, wrap any leftovers tightly and store them in the fridge. It can also be frozen for up to a month—ideal for those cozy fall evenings!
Cranberry Apple Galette Variations
Feel free to let your creativity flow and personalize this delightful dessert to match your taste and dietary needs!
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Dairy-Free: Swap unsalted butter for plant-based butter to enjoy a rich, crusty delight without dairy.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend for a safe, tasty treat without gluten.
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Sugar Alternative: Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar to infuse your galette with a unique, earthy sweetness.
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Fruity Twist: Replace cranberries with mixed berries for a bright, juicy explosion of flavor that welcomes summer.
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Spice It Up: Add nutmeg or ginger along with cinnamon to enhance the warm and cozy flavors of the filling.
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Sweet Surprise: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture that adds a lovely contrast to the soft fruit.
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Seasonal Shift: Try apples and pears together for a fall-inspired fruity galette that mixes sweet and tart perfectly.
You can even explore more delightful family recipes like the warm and inviting Oatmeal Apple Cake that pairs wonderfully with this galette! Customize it as you desire, and let the flavors of your creativity shine through!
What to Serve with Cranberry Apple Galette
Indulging in the cozy flavors of fall isn’t complete without the perfect accompaniments to your galette.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic choice, creamy and smooth, enhances the tartness of the fruit and adds a delightful chill.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it complements the rustic dessert beautifully, creating a luscious contrast that will have everyone coming back for more.
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Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of warm caramel brings a rich sweetness that elevates the flavors of the cranberries and apples, making every bite irresistible.
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Sautéed Spiced Apples: Adding warm, sautéed apples with cinnamon creates a delightful double apple experience, adding depth and warmth to your dessert.
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Coffee or Tea: A cup of freshly brewed coffee or spiced chai tea makes for a comforting pairing, enhancing the cozy, autumnal vibe.
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Cheese Plate: A platter of sharp cheddar or creamy brie balances the sweetness of the galette, offering a savory contrast that delights the palate.
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Cranberry Spritzer: A refreshing cranberry spritzer with sparkling water adds a fizzy and tart element, perfect for cleansing the palate between bites.
Elevate your dessert experience and enjoy the sweet, savory symphony that these thoughtful pairings bring to your table!
Make Ahead Options
These Rustic Cranberry Apple Galettes are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by rolling it out and placing it in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly to prevent drying. The filling can be mixed and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to bake, simply assemble the galette and follow the baking instructions. For the best results, brush the crust with an egg wash just before baking for that gorgeous golden finish. You’ll love the convenience of having an impressive dessert ready with minimal last-minute effort!
How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Apple Galette
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep the crust from becoming soggy.
Freezer: If you want to save some for later, wrap the whole baked galette tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month.
Reheating: Reheat individual slices in the oven (at 350°F) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, restoring its flaky texture.
Make-Ahead: Feel free to prepare the galette dough a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake, making your baking journey smoother!
Cranberry Apple Galette Recipe FAQs
What type of apples work best for a cranberry apple galette?
I recommend using tart apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for their flavor balance. They hold up well when baked, providing a perfect contrast to the tartness of cranberries. If you prefer a sweeter profile, feel free to substitute with sweeter varieties or even pears!
How should I store leftover cranberry apple galette?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh, ensure the container is tightly sealed to prevent moisture from making the crust soggy.
Can I freeze a cranberry apple galette?
Absolutely! After baking, allow the galette to cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat individual slices in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
What should I do if my galette filling is too watery?
If you find your filling has become too watery, it’s important to balance the moisture. Ensure you are using the correct amount of thickener in the filling, such as cornstarch, which you can mix with the sugar. Also, refrain from overstuffing; a generous but not excessive amount of filling will help maintain a crisp crust.
Is this cranberry apple galette suitable for people with allergies?
While this recipe contains common allergens like gluten and dairy, it can easily be adapted. Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option, and substitute unsalted butter with plant-based butter for a dairy-free variant. Always verify ingredient labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
How long can I keep the galette dough in the fridge before baking?
You can prepare the galette dough a day in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and makes for easier rolling when you’re ready to bake your delicious cranberry apple galette!
Delicious Cranberry Apple Galette for Cozy Fall Treats
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and 2 tablespoons of brown sugar. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut in ½ cup of unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add 5–6 tablespoons of ice water, mixing until a dough forms. Shape it into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for 30 minutes.
- While the dough chills, wash and slice 3–4 medium apples into thin wedges. Combine with 1 cup of fresh cranberries, ½ cup of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Gently toss until well coated and set aside.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll the chilled dough into a 12-inch circle. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Center the fruit mixture on the dough, leaving a 2-inch border. Fold the edges over the filling, pleating as you go.
- Brush the crust with an egg wash and sprinkle the edges with raw sugar. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
- Allow to cool for 15 minutes. Slice into wedges and serve warm, ideally topped with ice cream or whipped cream.