Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie

Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie is a delightful dessert that combines the tartness of cranberries with the creamy richness of cream cheese. Ideal for holiday gatherings or special occasions, this pie stands out for its layered textures and flavors. Each slice offers a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess, making it a memorable treat for all.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Unique Flavor: The combination of cream cheese and cranberry creates an irresistible taste that will excite your palate.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual get-together, this pie fits right in.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create a stunning dessert without stress.
• Stunning Presentation: The layered look makes it an eye-catching centerpiece on any dessert table.
• Versatile Ingredients: Easily adapt the recipe by using different fruits or toppings based on your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking, gather your tools for an efficient cooking process. Having everything ready will make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9-inch pie pans
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Foil (for lining baking sheets)

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Helps achieve a smooth and creamy filling quickly, saving you time and effort.
• 9-inch pie pans: Perfect size for this recipe, ensuring even baking and beautiful presentation.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for keeping ingredients organized as you prepare each layer.

Ingredients

For the Creamy Layer

• Cream cheese, softened
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Lemon juice
• Orange zest

For the Cranberry Layer

• Cranberry sauce
• Cornstarch
• Brown sugar
• Ground cinnamon

For the Crumb Topping

• Flour
• Brown sugar
• Pecans, chopped
• Melted butter

How to Make Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat Oven to 350°F (175°C). Fit pie crusts into two 9-inch pans and crimp edges. Place both on a foil-lined baking sheet to catch drips.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Layer

1. Beat softened cream cheese until completely smooth.
2. Add sweetened condensed milk and mix until glossy.
3. Blend in lemon juice and orange zest—the filling will thicken beautifully.
4. Divide evenly between crusts and smooth the tops.

Step 3: Mix the Cranberry Layer

1. In a bowl, combine cranberry sauce, cornstarch, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Spoon gently over the cream layer, spreading evenly without blending the layers.

Step 4: Prepare the Crumb Topping

1. Mix flour, brown sugar, and pecans in a bowl.
2. Pour melted butter over and mix until clumps form.
3. Sprinkle generously over both pies.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 55–60 minutes, until the topping is golden and the edges are set. If the crumbs brown too fast, tent loosely with foil for the last 15 minutes.

Step 6: Cool Completely

Cool at room temperature, then chill for at least 4 hours (overnight is best) for clean, perfect slices.

Enjoy your delicious Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie!

How to Serve Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie

Serving your Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie can enhance its delightful flavors and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some creative serving suggestions to pair with this delicious dessert.

Pair with Whipped Cream

• Fresh whipped cream adds a light, airy texture that complements the rich cream cheese filling beautifully.

Add a Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a creamy contrast to the tart cranberry layer, creating a perfect balance of flavors.

Drizzle with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of caramel sauce over the pie adds sweetness and an extra layer of richness that enhances every bite.

Serve with Fresh Berries

• Garnish with fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries for a pop of color and an added burst of flavor.

Accompany with Coffee or Tea

• Pairing slices of pie with a warm cup of coffee or tea makes for a comforting dessert experience, perfect for gatherings.

Top with Chopped Nuts

• Sprinkling some chopped pecans or walnuts on top adds crunch and a nutty flavor that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy filling.

How to Perfect Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie

To ensure your Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your cream cheese soften before mixing. This ensures a smooth filling without lumps.

• Don’t Overmix the Cream Cheese: Mix until just combined to avoid incorporating too much air, which can lead to cracks as it cools.

• Cool Gradually: Allow the pie to cool at room temperature before chilling. This helps set the layers properly without losing moisture.

• Check for Doneness: Look for golden topping and set edges. If necessary, cover loosely with foil if browning occurs too quickly.

• Chill Before Slicing: Chilling overnight is ideal for clean slices, allowing flavors to meld beautifully together.

• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to incorporate different spices like nutmeg or cardamom into the cranberry layer for added warmth.

Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie

Pairing side dishes with your Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie can elevate your meal even further. Here are some delightful options to consider:

1. Mixed Green Salad
   A light salad dressed in vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterbalance to the richness of the pie.

2. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted veggies add earthy flavors that complement the tartness of cranberries very well.

3. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses provides savory notes that contrast nicely against the sweet flavors in the pie.

4. Pumpkin Soup
   A warm bowl of pumpkin soup provides comfort and pairs well during cozy gatherings or holidays.

5. Fruit Salad
   A colorful fruit salad offers freshness and brightens up your dessert table while echoing similar fruity notes in the pie.

6. Savory Quiche
   A slice of quiche filled with vegetables or cheese adds protein and makes for a satisfying meal alongside dessert.

7. Garlic Breadsticks
   Soft garlic breadsticks offer a fun twist, balancing sweet and savory flavors delightfully.

8. Yogurt Parfait
   Layered yogurt parfaits can add a creamy element while also being light enough not to overshadow the pie’s rich taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Not Preheating the Oven: Always preheat your oven before baking. If you skip this step, your pie may not cook evenly, affecting texture and flavor.
• Overmixing the Cream Layer: Be careful not to overmix the cream cheese filling. Mixing too much can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks in your pie as it cools.
• Ignoring the Cooling Time: Cooling is crucial for a clean slice. Skipping this step can result in a messy presentation, so allow for adequate chilling.
• Using Fresh Cranberries Instead of Sauce: Fresh cranberries require cooking and sweetening. Stick to cranberry sauce for ease and consistent flavor.
• Neglecting Topping Distribution: Ensure an even crumble topping across both pies. Uneven distribution can lead to some bites being overly crumbly and others lacking texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pie in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie

• Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30-45 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making a Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie.

What is a Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie?

A Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie is a delicious dessert that layers creamy filling with tart cranberry sauce and a crunchy crumb topping.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes! It’s perfect for preparing ahead of time. Just make sure to chill it thoroughly before serving.

How do I customize my Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie?

Feel free to add spices like nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth or swap pecans with walnuts in the crumb topping for variety.

What can I serve with my pie?

This pie pairs beautifully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, enhancing its rich flavors and textures.

Final Thoughts

The Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie is not only visually stunning but also packed with flavor. Its creamy filling combined with tart cranberries makes it an irresistible treat. Plus, it’s versatile; feel free to customize it with different fruits or toppings based on your preference. Give this recipe a try and impress your audience!

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Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8 slices

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Description

Indulge in the delightful taste of Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie, a festive dessert that masterfully balances the tartness of cranberries with a creamy filling. This pie is not only easy to make but also visually stunning, making it the perfect centerpiece for any gathering—be it a holiday feast or a casual get-together. With its luscious layers and crumbly topping, each bite promises a burst of flavor that will leave your guests raving about this sweet treat. Whether served with whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream, this pie is sure to impress!

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Ingredients

• Cream cheese
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Lemon juice
• Orange zest
• Cranberry sauce
• Cornstarch
• Brown sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Flour
• Chopped pecans
• Melted butter

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and fit pie crusts into two 9-inch pans.
2. In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth, then add sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and orange zest; mix until glossy.
3. Divide the filling between the crusts and smooth the tops.
4. In another bowl, mix cranberry sauce with cornstarch, brown sugar, and cinnamon; spoon over the cream layer.
5. Prepare the crumb topping by mixing flour, brown sugar, and pecans; pour melted butter over and mix until clumpy.
6. Sprinkle topping evenly over pies and bake for 55–60 minutes until golden brown.
7. Allow cooling at room temperature before chilling for at least 4 hours.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 24g
• Sodium: 190mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 30mg