If you love the combination of tart cranberries and rich, creamy textures, then this Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie Recipe is going to become your new obsession. It brings together fresh cranberries bursting with bright flavor, a luscious cream cheese filling that’s smooth and dreamy, and a golden crumb topping that adds just the right amount of buttery crunch. Whether you’re looking for a festive holiday dessert or a special treat to brighten up any day, this pie promises to delight your taste buds and impress your guests. Get ready for a slice of pure happiness with every bite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie Recipe shines because of its simple, thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays an important role in balancing sweetness, tanginess, and texture — creating a perfect harmony that’s hard to resist.
- Fresh or frozen cranberries (1 1/2 cups): The star ingredient that gives the pie its beautiful tart flavor and vibrant color.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup, divided): Sweetens both the cranberry mixture and the cream cheese filling to balance the tartness.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and subtle spice, elevating the cranberry’s natural flavor.
- Cream cheese (1 cup, softened): Provides the creamy, tangy base that makes the filling rich and velvety.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Brings a smooth, light acidity that enhances the cream cheese and keeps the filling silky.
- Large eggs (2): Help bind the filling and give it structure while keeping it soft and delicate.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds a sweet, aromatic depth that complements the other flavors perfectly.
- Pre-made graham cracker crust (9-inch): Provides a quick and flavorful base with a slightly nutty crunch.
- All-purpose flour (1/2 cup): Used in the crumb topping to create a tender, golden crust.
- Unsalted butter (1/4 cup, melted): Adds moisture and richness to the crumb topping.
- Brown sugar (1/4 cup, packed): Gives the topping a deep caramel note and helps it crisp up beautifully.
- Rolled oats (1/4 cup): Introduce a lovely chewy texture to the crumb topping.
- Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
How to Make Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by warming your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the pie bakes evenly and the crumb topping achieves that perfect golden finish.
Step 2: Cook the Cranberries
Combine the fresh or frozen cranberries with half of the granulated sugar and the cinnamon in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the berries burst and release their tangy juices. Once softened and fragrant, take the mixture off the heat and let it cool — this step intensifies the cranberry flavor and softens their texture beautifully.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until silky smooth with a hand mixer. Add the remaining granulated sugar, sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract. Keep mixing until the ingredients blend into a fluffy, creamy filling that’s bursting with richness and sweetness.
Step 4: Combine the Cranberries with the Cream Cheese Mixture
Carefully fold the cooled cranberry mixture into the cream cheese filling. The goal is to maintain a marbled look while ensuring each bite is filled with bursts of tart cranberry goodness. Pour this vibrant filling into the pre-made graham cracker crust and smooth it out evenly.
Step 5: Make the Crumb Topping
In a separate bowl, mix the flour, melted butter, brown sugar, rolled oats, and a pinch of salt until crumbly. This topping adds a sweet, crunchy texture that perfectly contrasts the creamy filling underneath.
Step 6: Add the Crumb Topping and Bake
Sprinkle the crumb mixture evenly over the cranberry cream cheese filling. Slide your pie into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, watching for the filling to set and the topping to turn a gorgeous golden brown. The aroma while baking is absolutely irresistible!
Step 7: Cool and Chill
Once baked, let the pie cool to room temperature so the filling firms up properly. Then place it in the refrigerator for at least two hours — this chilling step is key to slicing perfect pieces that hold their shape.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Slice the pie into generous portions and serve chilled for the ideal creamy texture paired with that satisfying crumb crunch.
How to Serve Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie Recipe
Garnishes
For a beautiful finishing touch, sprinkle fresh cranberries, a few mint leaves, or a light dusting of powdered sugar on your pie slices. These little accents add charm and a pop of extra color that makes the dessert even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with simple whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce to play up the sweetness and complement the tangy cranberries.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not serve this pie in smaller tart-sized portions for a party, or accompany it with a warm cup of spiced cider? Offering mini slices on pretty plates or integrating a contrasting sauce on the side can turn this pie into a show-stopping dessert centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover pie covered tightly in the refrigerator. It will maintain its freshness and flavor for up to 3 days, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert for busy days or unexpected guests.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie Recipe ahead of time, wrap it securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. It will stay delicious for up to one month. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving for best results.
Reheating
The pie is best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer it slightly warm, pop a slice in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat, as the creamy filling can lose its texture if warmed too much.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work perfectly and are often more convenient year-round. Just be sure to rinse and drain them well before cooking to avoid extra moisture in your filling.
Is it possible to make the pie crust from scratch?
Yes, you can substitute the pre-made graham cracker crust with your favorite homemade pie crust recipe. A buttery shortbread or classic pastry crust would also be delicious with this filling.
Can I substitute sour cream with something else?
If you don’t have sour cream on hand, Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute that adds similar creaminess and tang without changing the flavor profile too much.
How long should I bake the pie to ensure it’s set?
Bake the pie for about 30 to 35 minutes at 350°F until the filling looks firm around the edges and just slightly jiggles in the center. The crumb topping should be golden brown and crisp.
Is this pie suitable for a holiday dessert table?
Definitely! The festive tartness of cranberries combined with the creamy filling and crunchy topping makes this pie a wonderful addition to any holiday spread or celebration.
Final Thoughts
This Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie Recipe is one of those special desserts that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Its perfect blend of tart, creamy, and crunchy makes every bite a delight. I encourage you to bring this pie into your kitchen soon — it’s an absolute crowd-pleaser ready to become a beloved favorite for your family and friends.
Print
Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie is a delightful dessert combining tart cranberries with a smooth cream cheese filling and a buttery, oat-studded crumb topping. The pre-made graham cracker crust makes it quick and easy to prepare, perfect for festive occasions or a cozy family treat.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pre-made graham cracker crust (9-inch)
Crumb Topping
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup rolled oats
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the pie evenly.
- Cook the cranberries: In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until the cranberries burst and release their juices. Stir occasionally, then set aside to cool.
- Prepare the cream cheese mixture: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth. Add the remaining 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined and fluffy.
- Combine cranberry mixture: Gently fold the cooled cranberry mixture into the cream cheese mixture, being careful not to overmix. Pour this creamy filling evenly into the pre-made graham cracker crust.
- Make the crumb topping: In a separate bowl, mix flour, melted butter, brown sugar, rolled oats, and a pinch of salt until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add crumb topping: Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the cranberry cream cheese filling.
- Bake the pie: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the topping is golden brown.
- Cool the pie: Allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up the filling.
- Serve: Slice and serve the pie chilled. Enjoy the delightful balance of tart cranberries and creamy filling with a crunchy crumb topping.
Notes
- For a more intense cranberry flavor, use fresh cranberries if possible.
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened for smoother mixing and better texture.
- Chilling the pie for at least two hours is essential for the filling to set properly.
- You can prepare the crumb topping in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- To prevent the crumb topping from burning, check the pie towards the end of baking and cover loosely with foil if it becomes too dark.
