Best Pumpkin Pie With Cranberry Caramel Topper

In a medium bowl stir together flour and salt. Using a pastry blender cut in shortening until pieces are pea-size. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon cold water over part of the flour mixture; gently toss with a fork. Push moistened dough to side of the bowl. Repeat moistening flour mixture, using 1 tablespoon of cold water at a time, until all flour mixture is moistened. Form dough in ball. On lightly floured surface use hands to slightly flatten dough. Roll dough from center to edges into a circle about 12 inches in diameter. To transfer pastry, wrap it around rolling pin. Unroll pastry into a 9-inch pie plate. Ease pastry into plate without stretching it. Trim pastry to 1 inch beyond edge of pie plate. Fold under extra pastry. Crimp and form a high edge to keep filling from bubbling over. Do not prick pastry.

In a medium bowl combine dried cranberries and brandy; let stand for 15 minutes. Stir in pecan halves and caramel-flavored ice cream topping. Serve immediately or cover and chill for up to 1 week. Bring to room temperature before serving.