Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie

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Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie – Tangy, Creamy, and Holiday-Perfect

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s equal parts creamy, tart, and sweet—with a buttery crumb topping that melts in your mouth—this Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie is your new holiday favorite. It’s a stunning showstopper that combines the richness of cheesecake, the brightness of cranberries, and the cozy crunch of a streusel topping, all nestled in a flaky pie crust.

Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving, celebrating Christmas, or just want a cozy dessert to enjoy with coffee, this pie delivers big flavor with minimal fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Pie

  • Creamy and tangy – The cream cheese filling is smooth and rich, balanced by tart cranberries.
  • Festive and vibrant – A gorgeous ruby-red topping makes it perfect for the holidays.
  • Easy to make – Uses canned cranberry sauce and simple pantry ingredients.
  • Crumb topping – Buttery, golden, and irresistible.
  • Make-ahead friendly – Chill and serve when ready.

Ingredients

This recipe makes one 9-inch pie.

For the Filling

  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cans (16 oz each) whole berry cranberry sauce
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 large eggs

For the Crumb Topping

  • ⅔ cup all-purpose flour
  • ⅓ cup brown sugar, packed
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

For the Crust

  • 1 9-inch pie crust, unbaked
    Use store-bought or homemade.

Optional: Add a pinch of salt to the crumb topping for balance.

Equipment You’ll Need

  • 9-inch pie plate
  • Mixing bowls
  • Hand or stand mixer
  • Whisk and spatula
  • Pastry cutter or fork
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Place your unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie plate and crimp the edges. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a large bowl, beat:

  • 16 oz cream cheese
  • ½ cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix until smooth and creamy.

Add:

  • 2 eggs, one at a time

Beat until fully incorporated and silky.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly into the prepared pie crust.

Spoon 1½ cans of cranberry sauce over the cream cheese layer and gently swirl with a knife or spatula.

Reserve the remaining cranberry sauce for topping after baking or serving.

Step 4: Make the Crumb Topping

In a bowl, combine:

  • ⅔ cup flour
  • ⅓ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Cut in ¼ cup cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the cranberry layer.

Step 5: Bake

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45–50 minutes, or until the center is set and the crumb topping is golden.

If the crust browns too quickly, cover the edges with foil.

Let cool completely on a wire rack, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.

Step 6: Serve

Top slices with a spoonful of the reserved cranberry sauce.

Serve chilled or at room temperature with:

  • A dollop of whipped cream
  • A scoop of vanilla ice cream
  • A sprinkle of powdered suga

Time & Yield

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Bake Time: 45–50 minutes
  • Chill Time: 2 hours
  • Total Time: ~3 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 slices
  • Calories: ~380 kcal per slice (approximate)

Tips for Success

  • Use softened cream cheese for a smooth filling.
  • Drain excess liquid from cranberry sauce if it’s too runny.
  • Chill before slicing for clean cuts and best texture.
  • Make ahead – This pie keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze slices individually for up to 1 month.

Variations to Try

  • Orange Zest Twist: Add 1 teaspoon orange zest to the cream cheese filling.
  • Nutty Crumb: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping.
  • Gingersnap Crust: Use crushed gingersnaps and butter for a spiced base.
  • Mini Pies: Make in muffin tins for individual servings.
  • Swirl Style: Swirl cranberry sauce into the cream cheese for a marbled effect.

Perfect For…

  • Thanksgiving dessert tables
  • Christmas brunch
  • Winter potlucks
  • Holiday gifting
  • Cozy weekend baking

Final Thoughts

This Cranberry Cream Cheese Crumb Pie is the perfect blend of creamy, tart, and sweet—all wrapped in a flaky crust and topped with a buttery crumble. It’s festive, flavorful, and easy enough for any baker to master. Whether you’re celebrating the holidays or just craving something cozy, this pie is a slice of seasonal joy.

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