Introduction
Welcome to a delightful twist on a classic dessert! This No-Bake Cranberry Pie is the perfect balance of sweet and tart, making it a refreshing finish to any meal. Picture a creamy, dreamy filling nestled in a crisp graham cracker crust, with the vibrant burst of cranberries adding a beautiful pop of color and flavor. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make — no baking required! Ideal for gatherings, holidays, or simply indulging yourself, let’s dive into this simple yet impressive recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 (9-inch) graham cracker crust
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whipped topping
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 35 minutes (includes chilling time)
Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries and sugar over medium heat. Stir occasionally, cooking until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
- While the cranberry mixture cools, place the softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl. Beat until smooth, then add the vanilla extract, lemon juice, and salt. Mix until everything is well combined and creamy.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, being careful not to deflate the fluffy texture.
- Once the cranberry mixture has cooled completely, fold it into the cream cheese and whipped cream mixture until well incorporated.
- Pour the luscious cranberry filling into the prepared graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly for a beautiful presentation.
- Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the filling has set and is firm to the touch.
- Before serving, top the pie with whipped topping and, if desired, a sprinkle of additional cranberries for that extra festive flair.
Notes or Tips
- For a slightly different flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cranberry mixture while cooking.
- Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing and to create a smooth filling.
- This pie can be made a day in advance, making it perfect for holiday gatherings.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe showcases a couple of key techniques. Cooking the cranberries with sugar transforms them into a delightful compote, bursting with flavor. Whipping the cream to stiff peaks ensures your filling is light and airy, while gentle folding helps maintain that fluffiness, resulting in a pie that feels as good as it looks!
FAQ
- Can I use frozen cranberries? Yes, frozen cranberries work perfectly! Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before cooking.
- How long will this pie last in the fridge? This pie is best enjoyed within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.
- Can I make this pie dairy-free? Absolutely! Substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream for a delicious vegan version.
Conclusion
This No-Bake Cranberry Pie is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration on a plate! With its rich, creamy texture and the tart brightness of cranberries, it’s sure to be a favorite at your next gathering. Simple to prepare yet impressive enough to wow your guests, this pie captures the essence of the holidays in each blissful bite. So, gather your ingredients and let the fun begin — your taste buds will thank you!