No-Bake Cranberry Pie Recipe

Introduction

This no-bake cranberry pie is a simple, refreshing dessert perfect for the holiday season or any time you crave something sweet and tangy. With a creamy filling, bright orange zest, and a crunchy graham cracker crust, it comes together quickly without needing an oven.

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

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and orange zest with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Step 2: Add the cranberry sauce and beat on low until well combined.
3. Step 3: Gently fold in the whipped topping until evenly mixed.
4. Step 4: Spread the mixture evenly into the graham cracker crust.
5. Step 5: Refrigerate the pie for at least two hours or overnight to allow it to set.
6. Step 6: Once set, garnish as desired, slice, and serve chilled.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a splash of vanilla extract to the filling mixture before folding in the whipped topping.
• Swap the graham cracker crust for a chocolate cookie crust for a richer twist.
• Try garnishing with fresh cranberries or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added texture.

Storage

Store the pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled until serving and avoid leaving it out at room temperature for extended periods. To serve, slice directly from chilled, no reheating needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes, this pie can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. It actually tastes better after the flavors have melded overnight.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of canned cranberry sauce?

Using fresh cranberries requires cooking them down with sugar to make a sauce first, which adds extra steps. The canned whole-berry cranberry sauce is convenient and provides the perfect texture.

No-Bake Cranberry Pie Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 456 reviews

This No-Bake Cranberry Pie is a creamy, tangy dessert perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you want a quick and delicious treat without turning on the oven. Combining smooth cream cheese, zesty orange, and vibrant cranberry sauce set in a crunchy graham cracker crust, it’s easy to prepare and deliciously satisfying when chilled.

• Author: Caleb
• 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

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and orange zest with an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
2. Add Cranberry Sauce: Slowly add the whole-berry cranberry sauce to the cream cheese mixture and continue beating on low speed until everything is well combined and evenly mixed.
3. Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the cranberry cream cheese mixture; folding helps maintain the airy texture of the whipped topping without deflating it.
4. Fill the Crust: Spread the combined mixture evenly into the graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even surface.
5. Chill to Set: Refrigerate the pie for at least two hours or preferably overnight to allow it to set and develop full flavor.
6. Serve: Once set, garnish the pie as desired, slice it into wedges, and serve chilled for the best taste and texture.

Notes

• Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth, creamy mixture.
• Orange zest adds a bright flavor—grate fresh orange peel without the white pith for best results.
• Whole-berry cranberry sauce provides texture and sweetness; do not substitute with jelly for the same effect.
• You can garnish the pie with fresh cranberries, orange slices, or mint leaves for an attractive presentation.
• Keep the pie refrigerated until serving to maintain its texture and freshness.

Keywords: No-Bake Cranberry Pie, Cranberry Dessert, Holiday Pie, Cream Cheese Pie, Easy No Bake Pie