Name: Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie: 7 Irresistible Layers
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: PT-491858H28M15S
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (9-inch) pie crust (store-bought or homemade); 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons orange juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional); 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed; 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon; Pinch of salt

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Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb is a delightful dessert that embodies the spirit of the holidays. With its buttery crust and creamy cheesecake-style filling, this pie features a vibrant layer of tangy cranberries topped with a golden crumb mixture. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a cozy winter gathering, this pie delivers a rich and festive flavor that makes every slice a moment to remember.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb

This Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavors that everyone will love. Here are some reasons why this dessert should be on your holiday table:

Perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors.
Rich and creamy cheesecake layer that complements the tart cranberries.
Easy to make with simple ingredients; a great recipe for beginners.
Can be served warm or chilled, making it versatile.
Ideal for holiday gatherings or as a comforting winter dessert.
Pairs beautifully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
It’s a vegetarian-friendly dessert that everyone can enjoy.

Ingredients for Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb

Gather these items:

1 (9-inch) pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons orange juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon orange zest (optional)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
Pinch of salt

How to Make Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and zest. Cook for 8–10 minutes until cranberries burst and the mixture thickens. Stir in cornstarch and cook for 1 more minute. Cool completely.
Step 2: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pie crust into a 9-inch dish.
Step 3: Beat cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth. Spread into the unbaked crust.
Step 4: Spread the cooled cranberry filling gently over the cream cheese layer.
Step 5: Mix flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in cold butter until coarse crumbs form.
Step 6: Sprinkle crumbs evenly over the cranberry layer. Bake for 40–45 minutes until golden and set.
Step 7: Cool fully, then chill for 2 hours for clean slices. Serve plain or with whipped cream.

Pro Tips for the Best Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb

Keep these in mind:

Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or winter gatherings.
Can be served plain or with whipped cream.
For a richer flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or a dash of nutmeg to the crumb topping.
Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to achieve a smooth filling.

Best Ways to Serve Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb

This pie offers various serving suggestions:

Top with a fluffy Cranberry Cream Cheese Topping for added flavor.
Serve alongside a Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread for a delightful appetizer.
Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.

How to Store and Reheat Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb

To store, cover the pie with plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 4 days. For reheating, place individual slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or warm it in the oven at a low temperature until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb

What’s the secret to perfect Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb?

The secret lies in using fresh cranberries and ensuring the cream cheese is at room temperature. This helps achieve a perfectly creamy filling that complements the tartness of the cranberries.

Can I make Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just make sure to store it in the refrigerator, and let it chill for a couple of hours before serving for the best texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb?

To avoid common mistakes, measure ingredients accurately and ensure that the pie crust is pre-baked if necessary. Also, let the cranberry filling cool completely before layering it on the cream cheese.

Variations of Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations:

Add a layer of Creamy Cranberry Cheese Crumble on top for extra crunch.
Incorporate a Cranberry Cheese Dessert Recipe by mixing in some vanilla bean.
Make it a Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Recipe by adjusting the ratios for a creamier texture.

By utilizing the above changes, you can customize this dessert to fit your taste preferences, making it an easy cranberry cream cheese dessert that everyone will love!

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making classic vanilla ice cream to pair with this pie.

Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie: 7 Irresistible Layers - Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb - additional detail

For a delightful appetizer, consider serving this pie with a cheesy mashed potato balls.