Introduction
Elevate your dessert game with this delightful cranberry cream cheese pie! Perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion, this no-bake treat combines a buttery graham cracker crust with a luscious creamy filling. Topped with festive cranberry sauce and an optional hint of orange zest, this pie will become a cherished favorite.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Crust:
10 graham crackers
2 tablespoons brown sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling:
¼ cup granulated sugar
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 (14-ounce) can whole cranberry sauce
8 ounces whipped topping, thawed
Zest of 1 large orange (optional)
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 6 hours (including chilling)
Yield: 8 servings
This cranberry cream cheese pie is simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced bakers. Enjoy the balance of flavors and the delightful textures in every bite!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Crust Preparation
1. Place graham crackers and brown sugar in a food processor; process until fine crumbs form.
2. With the processor on low, slowly pour in melted butter until crumbs begin to clump.
3. Grease a 9-inch pie dish and press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom and sides.
4. Freeze the crust for 15-20 minutes until firm.
Filling Preparation
1. In a large bowl, rub orange zest into granulated sugar until fragrant (if using zest).
2. Add softened cream cheese; beat with an electric mixer until smooth.
3. Mix in the whole cranberry sauce until well combined.
4. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until fully incorporated.
5. Spoon the filling into the prepared crust, spreading evenly.
6. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
7. Before serving, garnish with additional whipped cream and cranberries if desired.
Notes
Crust
– Ensure the graham cracker crumbs are finely processed for a smoother crust.
– Press the mixture firmly to avoid crumbling after it’s set.
Filling
– The cream cheese should be softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
– Avoid overmixing the whipped topping to maintain its light and fluffy texture.
Chilling
– For best results, allow the filling to set in the fridge overnight for optimal texture and flavor melding.
– Garnishing is optional but can enhance presentation and flavor.
Cook techniques
Processing Graham Crackers
To create fine crumbs from graham crackers, use a food processor. This ensures an even texture for the crust.
Making Breadcrumb Mixture
Combine the graham cracker crumbs with brown sugar and melted butter. This mixture should be moistened enough to hold together when pressed.
Pressing into Pie Dish
When pressing the crust mixture into the pie dish, use your fingers or the bottom of a measuring cup to ensure it is tightly packed and even.
Freezing the Crust
Chill the crust in the freezer for 15-20 minutes. This helps it to set firmly, preventing it from crumbling when filled.
Rubbing Zest into Sugar
For enhanced flavor, rub the orange zest into granulated sugar with your fingers. This releases the essential oils, making the sugar aromatic.
Beating Cream Cheese
Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy blending. Beat with an electric mixer until smooth to avoid lumps in the filling.
Folding in Whipped Topping
Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the filling mixture to maintain its light and airy texture. Avoid overmixing.
Chilling the Pie
After assembling, refrigerate the pie for at least 6 hours or overnight. This allows the filling to set properly for serving.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of crust?
Yes, you can substitute the graham cracker crust with a pre-made pie crust or a homemade cookie crust.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep the pie fresh.
Can I make this pie in advance?
Absolutely! This pie is perfect for making a day or two ahead of time.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
You can use mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a different flavor or dietary needs.
Is the orange zest necessary?
The orange zest is optional but adds a refreshing flavor. You can omit it if you prefer.
How do I make it more festive for holidays?
Garnish with additional whipped cream, cranberries, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a festive touch.
Conclusion
This delicious cranberry cream cheese pie is a delightful combination of textures and flavors, featuring a buttery graham cracker crust paired with a creamy, tangy filling. It’s the perfect dessert for any occasion, especially during the holidays. The use of whole cranberry sauce adds a burst of tartness that complements the sweet and rich filling beautifully. Whether you serve it chilled or with additional garnishes, this pie is sure to impress your guests.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Cranberry Orange Muffins
Combine cranberries and orange zest in a muffin batter for a refreshing breakfast treat.
Cranberry Cheesecake Bars
Create a layer of cranberry sauce over a cheesecake base, cut into bars for easy serving.
Graham Cracker Cookies
Mix crushed graham crackers into cookie dough for a delicious twist on classic cookies.
Whipped Cranberry Dip
Blend whipped topping with cranberry sauce and cream cheese for a sweet and tangy dip for fruit or crackers.
Orange Zest Pancakes
Add orange zest and cranberry sauce to pancake batter for a festive breakfast option.
Cranberry Sauce Granita
Freeze cranberry sauce with orange juice to create a refreshing, icy dessert.
