Name: Cranberry Pie with Streusel Topping for Holiday Bliss
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 195 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (You can use a 1:1 gluten-free blend for a gluten-free option.); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Enhances flavors.); 2 tablespoons Sugar (Sweetens the crust.); 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Chilled, for best texture.); 6-8 tablespoons Ice Water (Add gradually until dough holds together.); 4 cups Fresh or Frozen Cranberries (Fresh preferred for texture.); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (Sweetener for filling.); 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (Adds depth and richness.); 1/4 cup Flour (Helps thicken the filling.); 1 tablespoon Orange Zest (Brightens flavor.); 1/4 cup Orange Juice (Enhances cranberries.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Adds sweetness.); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (Warm spice.); 1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg (Provides warm flavor.); 1 cup Rolled Oats (Adds texture.); 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (Deepens sweetness.); 1/2 cup Flour (Binds topping.); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Cold, cut into dry mix.); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (Enhances flavor.)

As the aroma of cinnamon and sugar dances through the kitchen, I can’t help but anticipate the joy this Cranberry Pie with Streusel Topping will bring to my holiday gatherings. The balance of tart cranberries paired with a sweet, buttery crust is not just a dessert—it’s a comfort wrapped in nostalgia. What makes it even better? This delightful treat is simple to whip up, making it a breeze for busy hosts and a sure crowd-pleaser at any festive table. Plus, I’ve included a gluten-free option that everyone can enjoy! So, are you ready to dive into a slice of holiday happiness? Let’s get baking!

Why is this pie a must-try?

Flavorful Delight: The zesty cranberries paired with the cinnamon streusel create a harmonious balance of sweet and tart that excites the palate.
Simple Preparation: With easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
Versatile Variations: Try mixing in apples or pears to personalize your pie or switch it up with a Cranberry-Orange Cream Pie for a refreshing twist!
Holiday Showstopper: This pie not only tastes good but looks stunning on any dessert table, making it ideal for Thanksgiving or Christmas gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing Sweetness: Its comforting flavors and inviting aroma will have your guests coming back for seconds—and asking for the recipe! Enjoy it alongside other festive treats like Turkey Cranberry Pinwheels for a delightful holiday feast.

Cranberry Pie with Streusel Topping Ingredients

• Get ready for a festive flavor explosion!

For the Pie Crust

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for the crust; you can use a 1:1 gluten-free blend for a gluten-free option.
Salt – Enhances flavors and brings out the sweetness.
Sugar – Sweetens the crust beautifully.
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flakiness; make sure it’s chilled for the best texture.
Ice Water – Binds the crust together; add gradually until the dough forms.

For the Cranberry Filling

Fresh or Frozen Cranberries – The star of the pie, delivering tangy sweetness; fresh is preferred for texture.
Granulated Sugar & Brown Sugar – Sweeteners for the filling, with brown sugar adding depth and richness.
Flour – Helps to thicken the filling.
Orange Zest & Juice – Brightens the flavor of the filling and enhances the cranberries.
Vanilla Extract – Adds aromatic sweetness to balance the tartness.
Cinnamon & Nutmeg – Provide warm, inviting spices for both the filling and streusel.

For the Streusel Topping

Rolled Oats – Adds texture to the streusel topping for that irresistible crunch.
Brown Sugar – Deepens the sweetness of the streusel.
Flour – Helps bind everything together for a perfect crumbly topping.
Unsalted Butter – Use cold, cut into the dry mix until it resembles coarse crumbs for a flaky finish.
Cinnamon – Infuses warm spice into the topping, enhancing the overall flavor of your Cranberry Pie.

With these ingredients on your countertop, you’re all set to create a memorable holiday dessert that will have everyone reaching for a second slice!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Pie with Streusel Topping

Step 1: Prepare the Crust
In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, salt, and sugar for the pie crust. Cut in chilled unsalted butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough holds together. Form it into a disc, wrap in plastic, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking. While the oven warms up, roll out your chilled dough on a floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick, then carefully fit it into a 9-inch pie pan. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges, and place the pan back in the refrigerator for a brief chill while you prepare the filling.

Step 3: Make the Cranberry Filling
In a medium saucepan, combine fresh cranberries, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, orange zest, orange juice, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries start to burst and the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes while you prepare the streusel topping.

Step 4: Prepare Streusel Topping
In a separate bowl, mix rolled oats, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt for the streusel topping. Cut in cold unsalted butter using a pastry cutter or fork until you achieve a crumbly texture, with pea-sized clumps forming. Set aside while you assemble the pie, allowing the butter to remain cool for a crunchy finish.

Step 5: Assemble Pie
Carefully pour the cooled cranberry filling into your prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly. Next, generously sprinkle the streusel topping over the cranberry filling, ensuring it covers every bit. This layer of crumbly goodness will provide a delightful crunch to your Cranberry Pie with Streusel Topping once baked.

Step 6: Bake
Place the assembled pie in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the filling is bubbling and the streusel topping is golden brown. If the edges start to brown too quickly, protect them by covering with foil. Keep an eye on the pie as it bakes to achieve that perfect finish.

Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once the pie is out of the oven, allow it to cool completely at room temperature for at least 2 hours. This cooling time helps the filling set beautifully. After it’s cooled, slice and serve your Cranberry Pie with Streusel Topping, and consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra delightful treat!

Make Ahead Options

This Cranberry Pie with Streusel Topping is perfect for busy days and holiday meal prep! You can prepare the pie crust and streusel topping up to 24 hours in advance—just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain quality. Additionally, the cranberry filling can be made 1-2 days ahead; store it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep the flavors fresh. When you’re ready to bake, simply assemble the pie with the chilled filling and topping, and pop it in the oven. You’ll have a delicious dessert ready for serving without the last-minute rush, allowing you to enjoy the festive moments with loved ones!

Expert Tips for Cranberry Pie

Chill Your Butter: Always use cold unsalted butter in the pie crust and streusel to achieve a flaky texture that makes your Cranberry Pie with Streusel Topping irresistible.
Mix Carefully: When combining ingredients for the filling, stir just until combined. Overmixing can break down the cranberries and result in a mushy texture.
Bake to Perfection: Keep an eye on the pie as it bakes; if the streusel browns too quickly, cover the edges with foil to prevent burning while the filling cooks through.
Cool Completely: Allow your pie to cool for at least 2 hours after baking. This crucial step ensures the filling sets properly for clean slices.
Experiment with Fruits: Feel free to swap some cranberries with diced apples or pears for a delightful twist on the traditional Cranberry Pie.
Storing Leftovers: Store any uneaten pie in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh for full flavor.

How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Pie with Streusel Topping

Fridge: Store any leftover Cranberry Pie with Streusel Topping in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain its flavor and freshness.

Freezer: If you want to freeze the pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months; just make sure to label with the date!

Reheating: To reheat, thaw the pie in the fridge overnight, and then warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Cooling: Avoid slicing the pie until it has cooled completely at room temperature to ensure the filling sets beautifully.

What to Serve with Cranberry Pie with Streusel Topping

The sweet-tart brilliance of this pie deserves to be enjoyed with accompanying flavors that elevate every bite to new heights.

Whipped Cream: A generous dollop beautifully balances the tartness of the cranberry filling, adding a creamy richness.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold, smooth ice cream complements the warm pie, creating a delightful contrast that’s hard to resist.
Chai-Spiced Tea: The aromatic spices in chai echo the warmth of cinnamon in the pie, making it a cozy pairing for chilly evenings.
Apple Crisp: Pairing with an apple crisp offers a delightful textural contrast, with the crunch of apples enhancing the festive spirit.
Roasted Nuts: A handful of spiced or candied nuts provides a crunchy, savory bite that complements the sweetness of the pie.
Sparkling Cider: A bubbly drink adds a festive flair and refreshes the palate, making it perfect for holiday gatherings.
Pumpkin Muffins: These sweet treats echo the warm spices found in the pie and create a delightful, comforting spread for brunch.
Cheese Board: A selection of creamy cheeses can balance the pie’s tartness beautifully, adding depth to your dessert experience.
Cranberry Sauce: A small side of homemade cranberry sauce can amplify the flavors, bringing an extra layer of tartness to your dessert table.

Cranberry Pie with Streusel Topping Variations

Feel free to personalize this delicious pie with any variations that speak to your taste buds. Let’s explore some delightful twists!

Apple-Cranberry: Add thinly sliced apples to the filling for enhanced sweetness and texture. The fruity combination is simply delightful and adds a warm autumn taste.
Cranberry-Pear: Substitute half the cranberries with diced pears for a sweeter, more mellow flavor. This creates a beautiful balance that will surprise and please your guests.
Cranberry Crumble Bars: Transform this pie into bars using the same filling and streusel. This handheld treat is perfect for gatherings and easy to share around, making it a fantastic option for potlucks.
Cranberry-Orange Cream Pie: For a refreshing finish, top the pie with whipped cream infused with orange zest. The zesty cream elevates the pie, providing a light and creamy contrast to the tangy filling.
Nutty Topping: Enhance the streusel by adding chopped pecans or walnuts. This twist introduces a delightful crunch and rich, nutty flavor that plays beautifully with the cranberries.
Chocolate Drizzle: For a touch of indulgence, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled pie. This unexpected twist adds a luxurious element that will have everyone talking about your creation.
Spiced Variation: Increase the spice level by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for an intriguing kick. This surprising touch balances the sweetness perfectly, creating a unique flavor profile.
Cinnamon Swirl: Incorporate a cinnamon swirl into the filling for an added touch of warmth and depth. Mixing in a bit of cinnamon and sugar can turn an ordinary slice into an extraordinary experience.

With these variations, there’s no limit to the joy your Cranberry Pie with Streusel Topping can bring! And if you’re in the mood for more festive flavors, consider these delightful recipes: Brussels Sprouts Pie or a fresh twist with Cranberry Apple Slaw. Happy baking!

Cranberry Pie with Streusel Topping Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best cranberries for the pie?
Absolutely! If you can, go for fresh cranberries as they provide a better texture and flavor. Look for firm, plump berries with a bright color. Avoid any that are soft or have dark spots all over; these are signs of overripeness or decay. If fresh cranberries aren’t available, frozen ones can also work, but make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before use.

What is the best way to store leftover Cranberry Pie?
You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap to keep it fresh and moist. Be sure to let it cool completely at room temperature before covering to prevent condensation, which can lead to a soggy crust.

Can I freeze the Cranberry Pie with Streusel Topping?
Certainly! To freeze, allow the pie to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Make sure to label it with the date for tracking. When it’s time to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.

What should I do if the pie filling is runny?
Very! If your filling turns out runny, it might be due to the cranberries releasing too much moisture. To troubleshoot next time, make sure to add enough flour to help thicken the filling—around 3 tablespoons typically does the trick. Also, cooking the filling briefly on the stovetop can help to reduce excess liquid and enhance the flavors while the pie cools and sets.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
For sure! This Cranberry Pie with Streusel Topping can easily be made gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. Additionally, if you have guests with nut allergies, you can leave out any nuts in the streusel topping or substitute with seeds, like sunflower seeds, for added texture without the risk. Always double-check the ingredients for any hidden allergens, like certain brands of vanilla extract.