Delightful Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie

When I think of the holidays, my heart fills with memories of bustling kitchens and the sweet, tangy aroma of cranberry pie wafting through the air. My grandmother, a true culinary magician, would whip up her famous Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie that made every family gathering feel like a feast. I remember sneaking spoonfuls of the creamy filling when she wasn't looking, my fingers sticky with sweet goodness. It's a recipe that's been passed down through generations, and it never fails to bring a smile to everyone's face.

This Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie is the perfect blend of rich cream cheese, tart cranberry sauce, and a buttery crumb topping, making it a showstopper for Thanksgiving or any festive occasion. With its vibrant colors and delightful flavors, it brings warmth to the table and joy to our hearts. Whether you're sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet slice on your own, this pie is a reminder that the simplest recipes often carry the most love.

Why You'll Love "Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie"

• This recipe is a breeze to prepare, taking just 30 minutes of active time!
• It requires only a handful of ingredients, making it simple and cost-effective.
• The creamy and tart flavors are a hit with both kids and adults, perfect for family gatherings.
• These pies can be made ahead of time and stored in the freezer for future cravings.
• The vibrant colors and delicious taste make it a stunning centerpiece for your holiday table.
• With its rich, creamy filling and buttery crumb topping, it's bound to become a family favorite!

Ingredients You'll Need

• For the Pie Crust:
  • 2 pre-made pie crusts - Look for ones you can simply unroll for ease!
• For the Creamy Dreamy Layer:
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened - Take it out of the fridge at least an hour before starting for the best texture.
  • 28 oz sweetened condensed milk - This is what makes it luxuriously sweet!
  • ½ cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed - Fresh juice gives it that zippy flavor; bottled just won't cut it.
  • 1 orange zest - Just the zest of one orange adds a lovely hint of citrus.
• For the Tart & Tangy Cranberry Layer:
  • 2 cans (16 oz each) whole berry cranberry sauce - The whole berry variety gives the best texture!
  • 4 tablespoon cornstarch - This helps thicken up the cranberry layer.
  • 2 tablespoon light brown sugar - Just a touch to balance the tartness.
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional) - A little warmth if you like.
• For the Golden, Buttery Crumb Topping:
  • ½ cup salted butter, melted - It adds richness to the topping.
  • ⅔ cup all-purpose flour - This is the base for the crumb texture.
  • 4 tablespoon light brown sugar - For that sweet, caramelized flavor.
  • ½ cup chopped pecans - Or you can swap for old-fashioned oats if you prefer!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

First things first, we need to get that oven nice and toasty! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it helps the pie cook evenly, giving you that perfectly golden topping. Trust me, you don't want a soggy crust!

Prepare the Pie Crusts

Now, let's get those pie crusts ready! Grab your pre-made pie crusts and follow the package instructions to prepare them. Usually, it's as simple as unrolling them and placing them in your pie dishes. Make sure to gently press them into the corners and up the sides, so they fit snugly. Nobody likes a crust that shrinks while baking!

Make the Creamy Dreamy Layer

In a mixing bowl, combine that softened cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to blend them together until it's all smooth and creamy. No lumps allowed! Next, add in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and orange zest, and mix until everything is fully combined. This layer is the heart of the pie, so make sure it's delightful. Once mixed, pour this luscious goodness into the prepared pie crusts, dividing it evenly between the two.

Prepare the Cranberry Layer

In another bowl, it's time to bring in the tartness! Mix together the whole berry cranberry sauce, cornstarch, brown sugar, and if you're feeling it, the cinnamon. Stir until everything is well blended. The cornstarch will help thicken the cranberry layer as it bakes, making it just perfect for scooping. No runny cranberry here!

Assemble the Pies

Now comes the fun part! Carefully spread the cranberry mixture over the creamy layer in each pie. Don't rush this step; you want to make sure it's evenly distributed. It's like a beautiful sunset in a pie - so vibrant and delicious looking!

Make the Crumb Topping

In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter, all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, and chopped pecans (or oats, if you decided to go that route!). Use a fork or your fingers to combine everything until it resembles coarse crumbs. This is what's going to give your pie that golden, crunchy topping we all love!

Bake the Pies

Sprinkle the crumb topping generously over the cranberry layer in each pie. Don't be shy; the more, the merrier! Then, pop those beauties into your preheated oven and bake for about 60 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and your kitchen smells like heaven. It's going to be hard to resist sneaking a peek, but try to wait until it's done!

Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the pies from the oven and let them cool for a bit. This is crucial because it allows the layers to set perfectly. After about 10-15 minutes, slice them up and serve. You can enjoy them warm or at room temperature. Either way, they're sure to impress!

Variations

• Swap the whole berry cranberry sauce for homemade cranberry compote for a fresh twist.
• Try using a graham cracker crust instead of traditional pie crust for a different texture.
• For a lighter version, use low-fat cream cheese and a sugar substitute in the filling.
• Add a splash of vanilla extract to the creamy layer for an extra flavor boost.
• Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pie crust and flour for the crumb topping.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

For a delightful presentation, serve the pie slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh cranberries or a twist of orange peel for that festive touch. This pie is perfect warm or at room temperature, making it flexible for gatherings!

Storage

Store any leftover pies in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to save them for later, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes.

Helpful Notes

• For a richer flavor, try using full-fat cream cheese instead of reduced-fat.
• If you have nut allergies, you can omit the pecans or replace them with old-fashioned oats.
• Feel free to add some chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the crumb topping for a unique twist.
• For an extra creamy filling, beat in a little sour cream or Greek yogurt.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze the Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie?

Absolutely! You can freeze the pies after they've cooled completely. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. They'll be good for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge and warm them up in the oven!

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

If you're looking for alternatives, you can use mascarpone cheese for a creamier texture or even a dairy-free cream cheese if you're avoiding dairy. Greek yogurt is another option, but it may change the flavor slightly.

How long does the pie last in the fridge?

The pie will last in the fridge for about 4 days. Just make sure to cover it well to keep it fresh. You might want to serve it slightly chilled or at room temperature for the best experience!

Final Thoughts

As you gather around the table with family and friends, I hope this Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie brings as much joy to your home as it does to mine. It's a celebration of flavors that perfectly captures the spirit of togetherness and warmth. So, roll up your sleeves, enjoy the process, and don't forget to steal a taste or two along the way! Trust me, once you taste it, you'll understand why this pie has a special place in my heart. Happy baking, and may every slice bring you happiness!