Introduction
Are you looking for a delicious and easy dessert that will impress your friends and family? This cranberry cheesecake pie combines the creamy richness of cream cheese with the tartness of cranberry sauce, all nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust. It’s perfect for any occasion, especially during the holiday season. Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this pie a show-stopper.
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 (e.g., Cool Whip)
– Zest of 1 large orange (optional)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
0 minutes (no baking required)
Total Time
6 hours (including chilling time)
Yield
Makes one 9-inch pie
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Crust:
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:
1. If using orange zest, rub it into the granulated sugar until fragrant.
2. In a large bowl, blend the cream cheese and sugar mixture until smooth.
3. Add the cranberry sauce; mix until well combined.
4. Fold in the 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, optionally top with additional whipped cream and cranberries.
Notes
Storage:
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Substitutions:
You can use low-fat cream cheese for a lighter version.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Cook Techniques
Processing Graham Crackers
Utilize a food processor to achieve a fine crumb texture for the graham crackers, ensuring an even crust.
Incorporating Butter
Gradually add melted butter while the food processor is on low speed, allowing the crumbs to bind together properly.
Greasing the Pie Dish
Properly grease the pie dish before pressing in the crumb mixture to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal after chilling.
Freezing the Crust
Freeze the crust for 15-20 minutes to achieve a firm base, providing stability for the filling.
Infusing Orange Zest
Rub orange zest into the granulated sugar to release the oils, enhancing the flavor profile of the filling.
Blending Cream Cheese and Sugar
Blend the cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth to create a creamy, homogenous filling.
Folding in Whipped Topping
Gently fold in the whipped topping to maintain its light texture while incorporating it into the filling.
Refrigerating the Filling
Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to set.
Garnishing Before Serving
Optionally top with additional whipped cream and cranberries before serving for an attractive finish.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of cracker for the crust?
Yes, you can substitute other types of cookies or crackers, but the flavor and texture may vary.
Is it necessary to freeze the crust before adding the filling?
Freezing the crust helps it hold its shape and prevents it from becoming soggy when the filling is added.
How long can I refrigerate the pie before serving?
You can refrigerate the pie for up to 24 hours prior to serving for the best results.
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of canned cranberry sauce?
While fresh cranberries can be used, they will require cooking and sweetening before adding them to the filling.
What can I do if my filling is too thick?
If the filling is too thick, you can add a small amount of milk or cream to loosen it before spreading into the crust.
Can this pie be made ahead of time?
Yes, this pie is great for make-ahead as it requires chilling and can be prepared a day in advance.
Conclusion
This cranberry cheesecake pie combines the creamy texture of the filling with a sweet and crunchy graham cracker crust. It’s a delightful dessert that balances the tartness of cranberry sauce with the richness of cream cheese, making it perfect for any occasion.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Try adding a layer of chocolate ganache on top of the filling for a decadent twist.
More recipes suggestions and combination
For a tropical variation, include crushed pineapple in the filling for added sweetness and flavor.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Consider swapping the cranberry sauce for raspberry or strawberry preserves for a different berry experience.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Add a sprinkle of crushed walnuts or pecans on top for a crunchy texture that complements the creamy filling.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Mix in a teaspoon of cinnamon or ginger to the filling for a hint of spice that enhances the overall flavor profile.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Incorporate vanilla extract into the cream cheese mixture for an aromatic touch that pairs well with the other ingredients.
