Introduction
Get ready to indulge in a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion! This cranberry cream pie is not only visually stunning but also a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The buttery graham cracker crust perfectly complements the creamy, tangy filling made with fresh cranberry sauce and smooth cream cheese. Whether it’s a festive gathering or a simple family dinner, this pie is sure to impress!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the crust:
– Graham crackers
– Brown sugar (light or dark)
– Melted butter (salted or unsalted)
For the filling:
– Softened cream cheese
– Whole cranberry sauce
– Whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip)
– Granulated sugar
– Orange zest (optional)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 4 hours (chilling time)
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Follow these simple steps to prepare your scrumptious cranberry cream pie. With each bite, you’ll enjoy a satisfying combination of flavors that captures the essence of the season. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the crust:
– Place graham crackers and brown sugar into a food processor.
– Process until fine crumbs form.
– With the processor running on low, slowly pour in melted butter until the mixture clumps together.
– Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish.
– Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of the dish using the back of a measuring cup.
– Place the crust in the freezer for 15-20 minutes to set.
Prepare the filling:
– In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and orange zest (if using).
– Beat until smooth and creamy.
– Add the whole cranberry sauce to the mixture.
– Mix until well incorporated.
– Gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
Assemble the pie:
– Remove the crust from the freezer.
– Pour the cranberry cream filling into the crust, spreading it evenly.
– Smooth the top with a spatula.
Chill and serve:
– Cover the pie and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
– For best results, chill overnight.
– Before serving, garnish with additional whipped topping, fresh cranberries, and a sprinkle of orange zest, if desired.
Notes
Crust consistency:
– The crust should be moist enough to hold its shape, but not overly wet. Adjust the amount of butter if necessary.
Cream cheese temperature:
– Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easy mixing. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30-60 minutes before use.
Garnishing tips:
– Consider using a zesting tool for an even distribution of orange zest on top of the pie for presentation.
Serving suggestion:
– This pie pairs well with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprig of mint for added color.
Cook techniques
Processing Graham Crackers
Using a food processor will help you achieve fine crumbs quickly. If you don’t have one, you can place the graham crackers in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
Mixing the Crust
When combining the graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter, ensure that the mixture clumps together. This will help the crust hold its shape when pressed into the pie dish.
Pressing the Crust
Use the back of a measuring cup to press the mixture firmly into the pie dish. This will create an even and sturdy base for your pie.
Combining the Filling Ingredients
When mixing the cream cheese and sugar, ensure they are completely smooth before adding the cranberry sauce. This creates a uniform filling without lumps.
Folding in Whipped Topping
Gently fold in the whipped topping to maintain the light and airy texture of the filling. Avoid over-mixing to keep the filling fluffy.
Chilling the Pie
Chilling the pie for several hours or overnight allows the filling to set properly. This step is crucial for a stable and sliceable pie.
Garnishing
For an appealing presentation, garnish your pie with additional whipped topping, fresh cranberries, and a sprinkle of orange zest just before serving.
FAQ
Can I use regular sugar instead of brown sugar for the crust?
Yes, you can use granulated sugar in place of brown sugar, but the flavor and color of the crust may differ slightly.
Is it necessary to use orange zest in the filling?
No, the orange zest is optional. It adds a nice citrusy flavor but can be omitted if you prefer a more straightforward cranberry flavor.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! This pie can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
Can I substitute other fruits for the cranberry sauce?
While this recipe is specifically for cranberry sauce, you can experiment with other fruit sauces, keeping in mind that results may vary.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftover pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, covered to maintain freshness.
Conclusion
This delicious cranberry cream pie combines the rich flavors of cream cheese and cranberry sauce with a delightful graham cracker crust. It’s a perfect dessert for any occasion, offering a balance of sweetness and tanginess that is sure to impress your guests. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, this recipe will be a memorable addition to your dessert repertoire.
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