There’s a little thrill in the kitchen that occurs when I’m tasked with creating something special, and that’s exactly what I felt when dreaming up this Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie. The burst of tart cranberries, combined with the creamy richness of the filling, is a symphony of flavors that dances on your palate. It’s the kind of dessert that evokes cozy family gatherings, where laughter mingles with the sweet aroma wafting from the oven.
With the holiday season just around the corner or perhaps during a simple Friday night dinner, you’ll find this pie is an irresistible centerpiece. Whipping up this delightful dessert is easier than you might think, and it’s sure to capture the hearts of those you share it with. You won’t just be making a pie; you’ll be creating a memory!
So, dust off that apron, and let’s transform some humble ingredients into a slice of happiness that’s bound to spark joy at your table!
Why You'll Love This Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie
- This Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie is incredibly easy to whip up, making it a perfect choice for both novice and experienced bakers alike.
- The delightful combination of tart cranberries and creamy filling results in a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds cheering.
- Its versatility shines through whether it’s served at a holiday gathering or a casual family dinner, ensuring it fits any occasion perfectly.
- Visually, this pie is a showstopper with its golden crumb topping and vibrant cranberry layer, making it an instant centerpiece on your dessert table.
Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie Ingredients
For the Crust
• 9-inch pie crust – The perfect vessel for our creamy cranberry filling; store-bought or homemade works!
For the Cream Cheese Filling
• Cream cheese – Softened for easy blending, this adds a rich, creamy texture to the pie.
• Granulated sugar – Sweetens the cream cheese and balances the tartness of the cranberries.
• Large egg – Provides structure and helps the filling set beautifully.
• Vanilla extract – Adds a warm, aromatic note that enhances every bite.
For the Cranberry Layer
• Fresh or frozen cranberries – Either works wonderfully; fresh offers a burst of flavor while frozen is convenient.
• Granulated sugar – Helps to sweeten the tart cranberries and create a delightful compote.
• Orange juice – Brings brightness to the cranberries, enhancing their flavor with a citrusy twist.
• Cornstarch – Acts as a thickening agent to give the cranberry layer the perfect consistency.
• Orange zest (optional) – A sprinkle of zest adds a vibrant aroma and flavor boost to the cranberry mix.
For the Crumb Topping
• All-purpose flour – Forms the base of the crumb topping for that perfect texture.
• Brown sugar – Adds a hint of molasses flavor and moisture to the crumbs.
• Unsalted butter – Cold and cubed, it is key to creating a crumbly, flaky topping.
• Cinnamon – A warm spice that enhances the overall flavor profile, making it cozy and inviting.
• Pinch of salt – Balances out the sweetness and enhances the other flavors in the pie.
With these ingredients for your Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie, you’re just a few steps away from a delightful dessert that’s bound to impress!
How to Make Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie
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Cook cranberries: In a saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and zest. Cook over medium heat for 8–10 minutes until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens. Stir in cornstarch and cook for 1 more minute. Allow to cool completely.
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Prepare oven and crust: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place your pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it gently into the corners.
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Blend filling: In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Spread this mixture evenly into the unbaked crust.
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Layer cranberries: Gently spread the cooled cranberry filling over the cream cheese layer, ensuring an even distribution to capture all the flavors.
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Make crumbs: In a separate bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Cut in the chilled, cubed butter until coarse crumbs form, resembling small pebbles.
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Top and bake: Sprinkle the crumb mixture evenly over the cranberry layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the pie is set.
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Cool and serve: Allow the pie to cool fully, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to ensure clean slices. Serve it plain or with some whipped cream for an extra touch.
Optional: Garnish with fresh cranberries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a festive touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie
Fridge: Keep uneaten pie slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Wrap the whole pie securely in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: To enjoy warm slices, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10–15 minutes until heated through.
Serving Tip: This Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie is delightful when served chilled or at room temperature, but a little warmth enhances the creamy filling even more!
Make Ahead Options
These Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie components are perfect for meal prep, saving you time and stress on the day you plan to serve it! You can prepare the cranberry filling up to 3 days in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can blend the cream cheese filling and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, layer the fillings into the pie crust and sprinkle the crumb topping just before baking. This way, you ensure the topping is perfectly crunchy and just as delicious as when it’s made fresh! This approach allows you to enjoy delightful homemade pie with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie?
As you gather around the table to share this delightful dessert, think of the perfect accompaniments that will elevate your meal to new heights.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of airy whipped cream adds a lovely creaminess that complements the tangy cranberry filling beautifully.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The smooth, creamy custard of vanilla ice cream melds wonderfully with warm pie, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
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Cinnamon Spiced Tea: A warm cup of cinnamon spiced tea not only enhances the pie’s flavor but also offers a cozy, comforting experience.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing fruit salad can provide a bright contrast to the rich pie, making each bite feel balanced and satisfying.
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Chocolate Ganache Drizzle: For chocolate lovers, a rich chocolate ganache drizzle adds an indulgent touch that perfectly harmonizes with the tartness of the cranberries.
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Gingerbread Cookies: Offer a delightful crunch and spicy flavor that complements the pie’s sweetness while adding a festive touch to your dessert table.
Enjoying these pairings alongside your Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie will create a memorable dining experience filled with warmth and joy!
Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delightful pie, adding your personal twist to make it truly unique!
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Nut Crumb Topping: Add 1/4 cup of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the crumb mixture for a satisfying crunch. The earthy flavors will complement the tart cranberries beautifully.
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Lower Sugar: Reduce the granulated sugar by half in the filling and berry layers for a healthier take. This keeps the flavor balanced while making it a guilt-free dessert option.
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Gluten-Free Crust: Use a gluten-free pie crust to cater to gluten sensitivities. This simple swap allows everyone to enjoy a slice without worry.
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Mixed Berries: Swap half the cranberries with fresh or frozen blueberries or raspberries for a berry medley. The result is a vibrant twist that adds depth to the pie’s flavor profile.
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Coconut Cream Variation: Replace the cream cheese with coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative. This adds a tropical note while keeping the pie creamy and delicious.
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Spiced Cranberries: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the cranberry filling for a warm spice boost. Just a dash will elevate the pie’s comfort factor during chilly seasons.
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Extra Zest: Double the orange zest in the cranberry mixture for a more intense citrus flavor. This brightens the entire dessert and enhances its overall freshness.
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Chocolate Drizzle: After chilling, add a quick chocolate drizzle on top before serving. The sweet chocolate pairs beautifully with the tartness of the cranberries, creating a delightful contrast.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making the Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature to achieve a smooth and creamy filling without lumps.
- To prevent a soggy crust, make sure to chill the pie crust before adding the filling, which helps it hold its shape during baking.
- For even baking, rotate the pie halfway through the cooking time to ensure that all sides brown evenly.
- Finally, give the pie ample time to cool and chill before slicing, as this will help set the filling and make serving cleaner and easier.
Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie Recipe FAQs
What type of cranberries should I use?
You can use either fresh or frozen cranberries for this pie. Fresh cranberries offer the best flavor and texture, but frozen ones are just as tasty and convenient. If using frozen cranberries, there’s no need to thaw them before cooking; simply add them directly into the saucepan.
How do I store leftover cranberry cream cheese crumb pie?
Store uneaten pie slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can wrap the whole pie tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze it for up to 2 months.
What’s the best way to freeze this pie?
To freeze your Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie, allow it to cool completely after baking. Then, wrap it securely in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Label it with the date and freeze. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
How can I ensure a clean slice when serving?
For the cleanest slices, allow the pie to cool fully and then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before cutting. Use a sharp knife heated in hot water and dried off to achieve those beautiful, clean cuts.
Are there any dietary considerations for this pie?
Absolutely! If you’re ensuring it’s safe for those with allergies, remember that the recipe contains dairy (cream cheese and butter) and eggs. For a gluten-free option, you can substitute the all-purpose flour in the crumb topping with a gluten-free blend. Always double-check ingredient labels for any potential allergens!
What should I do if my crust turns soggy?
To prevent a soggy pie crust, ensure it’s fully chilled before adding the filling. You might also consider pre-baking the crust for about 5-7 minutes at 375°F (190°C) until it’s lightly golden and set. This step helps create a barrier that keeps it from absorbing moisture during baking!
Equipment
- 9-inch pie dish
- Mixing bowl
- saucepan
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 9-inch pie crust store-bought or homemade
Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Cranberry Layer
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp orange zest optional
Crumb Topping
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter cold and cubed
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 pinch salt
Instructions
Preparation
- In a saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and zest. Cook over medium heat for 8–10 minutes until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens. Stir in cornstarch and cook for 1 more minute. Allow to cool completely.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place your pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it gently into the corners.
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Spread this mixture evenly into the unbaked crust.
- Gently spread the cooled cranberry filling over the cream cheese layer, ensuring an even distribution to capture all the flavors.
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Cut in the chilled, cubed butter until coarse crumbs form, resembling small pebbles.
- Sprinkle the crumb mixture evenly over the cranberry layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the pie is set.
- Allow the pie to cool fully, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to ensure clean slices. Serve it plain or with some whipped cream for an extra touch.
