Heavenly Cranberry Crumb Pie 🥧🍒

This delightful Cranberry Crumb Pie is a delectable combination of creamy, sweet, and tart flavors that will tantalize your taste buds! Perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or simply when you crave a slice of comfort, this pie is sure to impress. The creamy layer contrasts beautifully with the zesty cranberry topping, all coated with a buttery, crunchy crumble. Serve it warm or chilled, and it pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Ingredients

For the pie

• 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
• 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 3 tablespoons light brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 can (16 ounces) whole berry cranberry sauce

For the crumb topping

• 1/4 cup butter, chilled and diced
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup chopped walnuts

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set the oven to 425°F (220°C). This initial high temperature will help the crust set beautifully!

2. Bake the Pie Crust: Place the unbaked pie crust in the oven and bake for about 8 minutes. Once done, remove it from the oven and lower the temperature to 375°F (190°C).

3. Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until fluffy. Gradually mix in the sweetened condensed milk until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Stir in the lemon juice and pour this mixture into the pre-baked pie crust.

4. Add the Cranberry Layer: In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of light brown sugar and cornstarch. Mix this into the whole berry cranberry sauce and then spoon this evenly over the cream cheese mixture.

5. Make the Crumb Topping: In a medium bowl, mix the chilled butter, all-purpose flour, and the remaining light brown sugar until you achieve a crumbly texture. Fold in the chopped walnuts and sprinkle this delicious mixture evenly over the cranberry layer.

6. Bake to Perfection: Bake the pie in the heated oven for 45 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and lightly browned.

7. Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to cool on a metal rack. It can be served at room temperature or chilled in the refrigerator for an hour for a refreshing treat.

🍽️ Serving Tip: This pie is fantastic on its own, but don’t hesitate to dress it up! A scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream adds a luscious touch that takes it over the top!

Variations

• Nut-Free: Omit the walnuts in the crumb topping for a nut-free version, ensuring it's safe for allergies.
• Fruit Swap: Try replacing the cranberry sauce with other fruits like blueberry or cherry for a different flavor profile!
• Lighter Option: Substitute the cream cheese with a lighter cream cheese alternative or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist with fewer calories!

Enjoy your slice of this heavenly cranberry crumb pie! 🍰✨