No-Bake Cranberry Pie Recipe
Introduction
This no-bake cranberry pie is a delightful and easy dessert perfect for the holiday season or any time you crave a sweet-tart treat. With a creamy filling packed with fresh orange zest and tangy cranberry sauce, it’s both refreshing and festive.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
- ⅓ cup powdered sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons orange zest
- 1 (14 ounce) can whole-berry cranberry sauce
- 1 (8 ounce) tub of whipped topping (thawed)
- 1 (9 inch) graham cracker crust
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and orange zest with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Step 2: Add the cranberry sauce and beat on low until well combined.
- Step 3: Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully incorporated.
- Step 4: Spread the mixture evenly into the graham cracker crust and refrigerate for at least two hours or overnight to set.
- Step 5: Once the pie has set, garnish as desired, slice, and serve chilled.
Tips & Variations
- For added texture, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top before serving.
- Substitute orange zest with lemon zest for a different citrus twist.
- If you prefer a sweeter pie, increase the powdered sugar to ½ cup.
- Use a chocolate cookie crust instead of graham cracker crust for a richer flavor.
Storage
Store the pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled until ready to serve. For best texture, avoid freezing as the cream filling may become watery upon thawing.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, this no-bake pie benefits from chilling overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to firm up properly.
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of canned cranberry sauce?
Fresh cranberries require cooking and sweetening before use. For convenience and the best texture, canned whole-berry cranberry sauce is recommended for this recipe.
PrintNo-Bake Cranberry Pie Recipe
This no-bake cranberry pie is a simple, refreshing dessert perfect for holidays or any occasion. Combining creamy sweetened cream cheese with tangy whole-berry cranberry sauce, fluffy whipped topping, and a crunchy graham cracker crust, it delivers a delightful balance of flavors and textures without any baking required.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- ⅓ cup powdered sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons orange zest
- 1 (14 ounce) can whole-berry cranberry sauce
- 1 (8 ounce) tub whipped topping, thawed
Crust
- 1 (9 inch) graham cracker crust
Instructions
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and orange zest with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. This ensures a silky base for the pie filling.
- Combine with Cranberry Sauce: Add the whole-berry cranberry sauce to the cream cheese mixture and beat on low speed until well combined, incorporating the tart berries evenly.
- Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the mixture to keep it light and fluffy, ensuring not to deflate the whipped texture.
- Fill the Crust: Spread the prepared filling evenly into the graham cracker crust, smoothing the top for an attractive finish.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate the pie for at least two hours, or preferably overnight, allowing the filling to firm up properly.
- Serve: Once set, optionally garnish as desired, slice, and serve the pie chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother filling texture.
- Orange zest adds a fresh citrus aroma that complements the tartness of the cranberries.
- This pie can be garnished with fresh cranberries or orange slices for a festive look.
- Keep the pie refrigerated until serving to maintain its shape and freshness.
- Can be made a day ahead, making it a convenient make-ahead dessert option.
Keywords: no-bake cranberry pie, cranberry dessert, holiday pie, no bake pie, cream cheese cranberry pie, easy cranberry pie
