Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the aroma of baked goods wafts through the house, I often find myself humming along with nostalgia, recalling delightful family gatherings centered around sweet treats. Enter the Holiday Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie, a shining star of festive tables everywhere. This pie isn’t just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors, combining a velvety cream cheese filling with a tart cranberry swirl, all nestled in a flaky crust. What makes this gem truly special is its versatility—whether you’re looking for a quick prep for unexpected guests or a stunning centerpiece for your holiday feast, this pie has you covered. Plus, it stores beautifully in the freezer, so you can savor a slice long after the festivities end. Curious about how to craft this delectable pie and impress your loved ones? Let’s whip up some magic together! Why is this pie a must-try? Celebration of Flavors: This Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie combines vibrant tartness with creamy richness, making every slice a delightful experience. Versatile Variations: You can easily customize it with hints of orange or even chocolate for a unique twist. Simple Steps: With straightforward ingredients and simple instructions, you’ll impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen. Freezer-Friendly: Make it ahead, and enjoy it fresh from the freezer whenever cravings strike! Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Perfect for holiday gatherings, it’s sure to spark joy and nostalgia around the table. If you’re into easy yet impressive treats like our Coconut Cream Pancakes or the Apple Crumble Cheesecake, this pie is your next favorite! Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie Ingredients For the Crust Pie Crusts – Store-bought or homemade, either works beautifully as the foundation for your pie. For the Creamy Layer Cream Cheese – Ensure it’s softened for smooth mixing; it provides that delightful creaminess. Sweetened Condensed Milk – Adds a rich sweetness, making your filling luscious and irresistible. Lemon Juice – Freshly squeezed is best; it balances sweetness with a zesty kick. Orange Zest – Enhances flavor with a bright citrus twist; lemon zest is a great alternative. For the Cranberry Layer Cranberry Sauce – The star of the pie, adding necessary tartness; use canned for convenience or homemade for a personal touch. Cornstarch – Vital for thickening the cranberry layer, ensuring it holds together beautifully. Brown Sugar – Sweetens the cranberry mixture and adds a touch of moisture. Cinnamon – Infuses warmth and enhances the flavor profile of the filling. For the Crumb Topping Flour – Provides structure to the crumb topping, creating a perfect crunch. Chopped Pecans – Adds a nutty crunch; feel free to omit for a nut-free version. Butter – Melted for easy mixing; it adds richness to your crumb topping. This Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie is a delightful blend of textures and flavors that is sure to win over anyone at the table! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, prepare two 9-inch pie pans by fitting them with your chosen pie crusts, either store-bought or homemade. Make sure the crust is evenly pressed against the bottom and sides of each pan for a perfect foundation for your delicious Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie. Step 2: Make the Creamy Layer In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until it’s creamy and smooth. Gradually add in the sweetened condensed milk, followed by fresh lemon juice and orange zest, mixing until all ingredients are fully incorporated. Divide this luscious cream filling evenly between the two prepared crusts, smoothing it out with a spatula for a uniform layer. Step 3: Mix the Cranberry Layer In a separate bowl, combine the cranberry sauce, cornstarch, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Stir until the mixture is well incorporated and slightly thickened. Carefully spoon the cranberry mixture over the cream cheese layer in both pies, taking care to cover the creamy base without disturbing it too much. This layering will form the delightful tart layer of your Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie. Step 4: Prepare the Crumb Topping In a medium bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and chopped pecans, mixing well. Pour in the melted butter and mix until clumps form, creating a crumbly texture. This will be your crunchy topping that adds a delightful contrast to the creamy and tart layers. Sprinkle the crumb topping generously over both pies, ensuring an even distribution for a beautiful finish. Step 5: Bake the Pies Place the prepared pies on a foil-lined baking sheet to catch any drips and make for easier cleanup. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until the crumb topping turns golden brown and the cranberry layer is bubbly. Keep an eye on them and tent with foil if they brown too quickly, ensuring even baking for both lovely Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pies. Step 6: Cool Completely Once baked, remove the pies from the oven and let them cool at room temperature for about an hour. After cooling, cover them lightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This chilling time allows the layers to set beautifully, ensuring that each slice of your Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie holds its shape when served, making for a stunning presentation. How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie Room Temperature: Allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature before serving. It can remain out for up to 2 hours, but should be refrigerated after that to maintain freshness. Fridge: Store uneaten pie slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will keep the layers fresh and creamy while preventing them from drying out. Freezer: The Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie freezes beautifully! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheating: To enjoy later, thaw the pie overnight in the refrigerator before serving. You can warm individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds or enjoy them cold for a tangy treat! Expert Tips for Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie Smooth Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing; this avoids lumps and ensures a silky filling. Avoid Runny Filling: If your cranberry layer seems too runny, double-check your cornstarch measurements; it’s crucial for the right texture. Clean Cuts: Use a sharp knife to slice the pie, cleaning the blade between cuts for beautiful, tidy pieces of your cranberry cream cheese crumb pie. Chill for Success: Never skip the chilling time after baking; it allows the layers to set, making each slice firm and easier to serve. Creative Variations: Experiment with flavors by substituting orange zest with lemon or adding mini chocolate chips for a fun twist on the classic recipe. What to Serve with Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie As fragrant aromas fill your home, delight your guests by creating a well-rounded feast to accompany this festive pie. Fresh Whipped Cream: The light and airy texture cuts through the richness of the pie, making each bite even more indulgent. A dollop on the side adds a classic touch. Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Creamy, dreamy, and cold, this ice cream enhances the warmth and tartness of the pie, offering a delightful contrast with each spoonful. Cinnamon Sugar Cookies: These sweet, crunchy treats add another layer of warmth to your dessert spread, echoing the cozy flavors of the pie and inviting guests to indulge. Pecan Pie Bars: Rich and nutty, these bars provide a satisfying crunch alongside the silky cream and tart layers of the pie. They are a perfect complement during holiday gatherings. Cranberry Sauce: Serving extra cranberry sauce allows guests to enjoy an even bolder tartness that pairs beautifully with the sweet cream cheese filling, enhancing the overall experience. Sparkling Cider: This refreshing beverage mirrors the pie’s festive spirit, providing a lightly sweet, bubbly counterpart that brightens up every moment of your holiday gathering. Chocolate Fondue: Dip fresh fruits or cookies in melted chocolate for a fun, interactive dessert option. The richness of chocolate contrasts excitingly with the tart cranberry notes. Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie Variations Feel free to customize your pie experience with these delightful twists and substitutions! Lemon-Lover’s Twist: Replace orange zest with fresh lemon zest for a bright, citrusy flavor. This simple switch makes a world of difference. Chocolate Layer: Add mini chocolate chips between the creamy and cranberry layers for a luscious chocolate surprise that complements the tartness beautifully. Nut-Free Crunch: If you prefer a nut-free version, swap out chopped pecans with rolled oats. They add the same wonderful crunch without the allergens. Ginger Snap: Mix in chopped crystallized ginger into the cranberry layer for a warming, spicy kick that elevates the overall flavor palette. Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free alternative, use a gluten-free crust and substitute regular flour with a suitable gluten-free mix, ensuring everyone can enjoy this treat. Cranberry Orange Jam: Instead of standard cranberry sauce, consider using cranberry-orange jam for an extra burst of flavor and sweetness. Coconut Bliss: Top with shredded coconut in the crumb mixture for a tropical twist that pairs mystically with the cranberries—perfect for those sunny holidays! Cream Cheese Swirls: Instead of a smooth cream cheese layer, create swirls with the filling for an artistic presentation that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. As you explore these variations, you might also enjoy making our delicious Pistachio Cream Chocolate Chip Cookies or try the festive charm of Blueberry Cream Cheese. Each option promises to amplify your baking experiences! Make Ahead Options These Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their holiday preparations! You can prepare the creamy layer and cranberry filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply keep them covered in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can make the crumb topping and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, assemble the layers in the pie crusts, sprinkle with crumb topping, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy a delectable dessert that’s just as delicious with minimal effort, leaving you more time to cherish the festivities! Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie Recipe FAQs What should I look for when selecting ingredients for this pie? Absolutely! For the best results, choose fresh, high-quality ingredients. Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened for smooth mixing, and select cranberry sauce that’s tart yet sweet—canned works well for convenience, but homemade can elevate your pie’s taste. How long can I store leftover Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie in the fridge? You can refrigerate uneaten slices for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep them in an airtight container to maintain their creamy texture and freshness. This will help prevent any drying out from the air in your fridge. Can I freeze the Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie? Very much so! To freeze, first allow the pie to cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving. What if my cranberry filling turns out runny after baking? If you find that your filling is runny, it’s likely due to not enough cornstarch being used to thicken the cranberry layer. To fix this for next time, ensure your measurements are precise. Additionally, you can give it a bit more chilling time in the fridge after baking; this can help it set better. Are there any dietary considerations for this pie? Of course! The pie can easily be made nut-free by omitting the pecans in the crumb topping and substituting rolled oats instead. For those needing a gluten-free option, you can swap out the pie crust and flour for gluten-free alternatives without sacrificing flavor. Always double-check labels for allergens if you have sensitivities. How can I enhance the flavor of the Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie? I often love to add hints of orange zest or even mini chocolate chips to create a flavor twist. Consider also incorporating chopped crystallized ginger into the cranberry layer for an extra zing! Each variation can be a delightful surprise, keeping the recipe fresh and exciting for every occasion. Delicious Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie for Festive Feasts Celebrate the festive season with our delightful Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie, combining tart cranberries and creamy cheese in a flaky crust. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hrCooling Time 4 hours hrsTotal Time 5 hours hrs 30 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DessertsCuisine: AmericanCalories: 320 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Crust2 crusts Pie Crusts Store-bought or homemadeFor the Creamy Layer16 oz Cream Cheese Softened14 oz Sweetened Condensed Milk2 tbsp Lemon Juice Freshly squeezed1 tbsp Orange Zest Alternative to lemon zestFor the Cranberry Layer14 oz Cranberry Sauce Canned or homemade2 tbsp Cornstarch1 tbsp Brown Sugar1 tsp CinnamonFor the Crumb Topping1 cup Flour1/2 cup Chopped Pecans Optional1/2 cup Butter Melted Equipment mixing bowlsElectric mixerspatulapie pansBaking Sheet Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and fit two 9-inch pie pans with the crust.Beat the softened cream cheese until creamy. Gradually add sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and orange zest until fully mixed. Divide evenly between the crusts.In a separate bowl, mix cranberry sauce, cornstarch, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Spoon over the cream cheese layer in both pies.Combine flour, brown sugar, and chopped pecans. Mix in melted butter until clumps form, then sprinkle on top of both pies.Bake for 55-60 minutes until golden brown. Cool for about an hour, then refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 4gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 230mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 6mg NotesEnsure cream cheese is softened for a smooth filling. Chill the pies for best texture. Experiment with flavors like lemon zest or mini chocolate chips. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
