Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie

Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie is a delightful dessert that combines the tartness of cranberries with a creamy filling, topped with a crunchy crumb layer. This pie is perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy family dinners, or any celebration where you want to impress your guests. Its rich flavors and beautiful presentation make it a standout choice on any dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Unique Flavor: The combination of creamy cheese and tangy cranberry creates a harmonious balance that tantalizes the taste buds.
• Versatile for Occasions: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a summer picnic, this pie fits right in as a crowd-pleaser.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and minimal preparation time, even beginner bakers can master this recipe.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This pie tastes great chilled, making it an excellent treat to enjoy after special occasions.
• Beautiful Presentation: The striking contrast between the cranberry layer and crumb topping makes for an eye-catching dessert.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9-inch pie pans
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Foil-lined baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Ensures that your cream cheese is perfectly smooth, which is crucial for achieving that creamy texture.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to baking success, helping you achieve the desired flavor and consistency.

Ingredients

For the Cream Layer

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp orange zest

For the Cranberry Layer

• 2 cups cranberry sauce
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon

For the Crumb Topping

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
• 1/2 cup melted butter

How to Make Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Make the Creamy Layer

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

Step 3: Mix the Cranberry Layer

In a bowl, combine:
1. The cranberry sauce,
2. Cornstarch,
3. Brown sugar,
4. Cinnamon.

Spoon this mixture gently over the cream layer in each pie, spreading it evenly without mixing with the cream layer beneath.

Step 4: Prepare the Crumb Topping

In a bowl, mix:
1. Flour,
2. Brown sugar,
3. Chopped pecans.

Pour melted butter over this mixture and stir until clumps form. Sprinkle generously over both pies.

Step 5: Bake

Place your pies in the preheated oven and bake for 55–60 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and edges are set. If you notice that crumbs are browning too quickly, tent them loosely with foil for the last 15 minutes of baking.

Step 6: Cool Completely

Once baked, cool at room temperature before transferring them to chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours (overnight is best) to ensure clean slices when serving.

Enjoy your homemade Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie!

How to Serve Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie

Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie is a delightful dessert that shines during any gathering. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or simply enjoying a family dinner, serving this pie can be a wonderful experience.

Individual Slices

• Serve each slice on a dessert plate for an elegant presentation, garnished with fresh cranberries or mint leaves.

Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream adds a light and airy texture, balancing the richness of the cream cheese filling perfectly.

Vanilla Ice Cream

• Pairing this pie with vanilla ice cream creates a warm and cold contrast that enhances the flavors, making each bite irresistible.

Fresh Fruit

• Serving alongside fresh fruit like sliced oranges or berries can add a refreshing touch to your dessert spread.

Coffee or Tea

• A cup of coffee or herbal tea complements the sweet and tangy flavors of the pie, making for an enjoyable after-dinner treat.

How to Perfect Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie

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

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy blending and a smooth filling.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining ingredients for the creamy layer, mix just until smooth. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.

• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the cranberry layer before adding more sugar; adjust according to your preference for tartness or sweetness.

• Let It Chill: Allowing the pie to chill overnight helps set the layers and improves the flavor as they meld together beautifully.

• Check for Doneness: Bake until the topping is golden brown and the edges are set, checking frequently to avoid over-baking.

Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie

A well-rounded meal enhances your dessert experience. Here are some delightful side dishes that pair beautifully with Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie.

1. Roasted Vegetables
   A colorful medley of roasted seasonal vegetables adds depth and nutrition to your meal.

2. Mixed Green Salad
   A fresh salad with vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast to the creamy pie while balancing flavors.

3. Stuffed Acorn Squash
   This hearty dish filled with grains and nuts offers warmth and rich flavor that complements the pie nicely.

4. Quinoa Pilaf
   Lightly seasoned quinoa pilaf adds texture and nutty flavor, making it an ideal side dish for this dessert.

5. Sweet Potato Mash
   Creamy sweet potato mash brings sweetness and earthiness that pairs well with the tanginess of cranberries.

6. Cheese Platter
   Offering a selection of cheeses provides savory bites that enhance the overall dining experience before indulging in dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie a success. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Skipping the chill time: Not allowing the pie to chill for long enough can lead to messy slices. Make sure to refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
• Overmixing the cream cheese: Mixing too vigorously can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks in your filling. Blend until smooth but don’t overdo it.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Incorrect measurements can ruin the balance of flavors and textures. Use precise measuring tools and double-check your amounts.
• Ignoring oven temperatures: Oven calibration can vary; ensure yours is set correctly for an even bake. Invest in an oven thermometer if needed.
• Using warm ingredients: If any ingredients are warm, they may not combine well, affecting texture. Ensure cream cheese and other components are at room temperature before mixing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pie in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie

• Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best taste.

Reheating Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat the pie for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 30-45 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a non-stick skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie special?

This pie combines creamy texture with tart cranberry flavor, making it perfect for festive occasions.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of sauce?

Yes! You can cook fresh cranberries with sugar and water to make your own cranberry sauce for this recipe.

How do I customize my Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie?

You can add spices like nutmeg or ginger, or mix in nuts like walnuts for extra crunch.

Is this recipe suitable for special occasions?

Absolutely! Its unique flavors make it a delightful dessert choice for holidays and gatherings.

Can I use a different type of crust?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with graham cracker crusts or gluten-free options if desired.

Final Thoughts

The Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie offers a delightful combination of flavors that can impress any crowd. It’s versatile enough to allow customization with various spices or toppings. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; your taste buds will thank you!

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Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie

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

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Description

Indulge in the delightful Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie, a perfect balance of tart cranberries and creamy cheese filling, all topped with a crunchy crumb layer. This stunning dessert is ideal for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests. The rich flavors and beautiful presentation make it a standout treat on any dessert table. Celebrate the season with this easy-to-make pie that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

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Ingredients

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• 8 oz cream cheese
• 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp orange zest
• 2 cups cranberry sauce
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/2 cup melted butter

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 9-inch pie crusts.
2. Beat softened cream cheese until smooth; mix in sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and orange zest.
3. Spread the cream mixture evenly in both crusts.
4. In another bowl, combine cranberry sauce, cornstarch, brown sugar, and cinnamon; spoon over the cream layer.
5. Mix flour, brown sugar, and chopped pecans; drizzle melted butter over it to form clumps and sprinkle over the pies.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes until golden brown; cool completely before chilling.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 140g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 22g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 30mg