Name: Delicious Cranberry Pie with Streusel Topping for Cozy Gatherings
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1.25 cups All-Purpose Flour (Provides structure and a flaky texture.); 0.5 tsp Salt (Enhances flavor for a more balanced crust.); 1 tbsp Sugar (Adds a touch of sweetness to the crust.); 0.5 cup Unsalted Butter (Chilled and cubed; creates a tender, flaky crust.); 4 tbsp Ice Water (Helps bind the dough; add gradually.); 3 cups Fresh or Frozen Cranberries (The star of the pie, delivering tartness.); 0.75 cup Granulated Sugar (Sweetens the tart cranberries.); 2 tbsp Brown Sugar (Adds depth to the flavor profile.); 2 tbsp All-Purpose Flour (Thickens the filling beautifully.); 1 tsp Orange Zest (Brightens the flavor.); 0.25 cup Fresh Orange Juice (Brings moisture and sweetness.); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (Enhances the overall flavor.); 0.5 tsp Cinnamon (Infuses the filling with aromatic warmth.); 1 pinch Salt (Balances the flavors.); 0.75 cup All-Purpose Flour (Serves as the base for the streusel.); 0.5 cup Rolled Oats (Adds delightful texture.); 0.5 cup Brown Sugar (Brings sweetness and moisture.); 0.5 tsp Cinnamon (Offers aromatic warmth.); 0.25 tsp Nutmeg (Enhances the spiciness.); 0.5 cup Cold Unsalted Butter (Creates a crumbly texture.)

The scent of cinnamon and sugar wafts through the air, mingling with the tart brightness of fresh cranberries—the perfect herald of cozy gatherings and festive celebrations. This Cranberry Pie with Streusel Topping is not just a dessert; it’s a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors that brings warmth to chilly autumn evenings. With a buttery, flaky crust and a crunchy topping that sings with spices, this pie is quick to prepare and sure to impress your friends and family. Whether you’re serving it at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a quiet afternoon with loved ones, this dish will make your heart sing with joy. Are you ready to savor the sweetness of the season?

Why is this Cranberry Pie a must-try?

Unforgettable Flavor: The unique tartness of fresh cranberries, paired with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, creates a vibrant taste sensation.

Easy Prep: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this pie is accessible for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.

Versatile Serving: Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in, it complements other festive treats like Turkey Cranberry Pinwheels and Brussels Sprouts Pie.

Baked to Perfection: The golden streusel topping adds a delightful crunch, making each slice a textural dream.

Win-Win Dessert: Impress your guests and pamper yourself with a dessert that’s not just delicious but also brimming with seasonal nostalgia!

Cranberry Pie with Streusel Topping Ingredients

For the Pie Crust

All-Purpose Flour – 1.25 cups; provides structure and a flaky texture. Consider using a gluten-free baking blend for a gluten-free version.
Salt – 0.5 tsp; enhances flavor for a more balanced crust.
Sugar – 1 tbsp; adds a touch of sweetness to the crust.
Unsalted Butter – 0.5 cup, chilled and cubed; creates a tender, flaky crust—keeping it cold is key!
Ice Water – 4 tbsp as needed; helps bind the dough; add gradually until it holds together.

For the Cranberry Filling

Fresh or Frozen Cranberries – 3 cups; the star of this Cranberry Pie with Streusel Topping, delivering tartness that sings.
Granulated Sugar – 0.75 cup; sweetens the tart cranberries—adjust to your taste!
Brown Sugar – 2 tbsp; adds a layer of depth to the flavor profile.
All-Purpose Flour – 2 tbsp; thickens the filling beautifully.
Orange Zest – 1 tsp; brightens the flavor, so make sure not to skip it!
Fresh Orange Juice – 0.25 cup; brings moisture and a hint of sweetness to the pie.
Vanilla Extract – 1 tsp; enhances the overall flavor, adding warmth.
Cinnamon – 0.5 tsp; infuses the filling with aromatic warmth.
Salt – 1 pinch; elevates the sweetness and balances the flavors.

For the Streusel Topping

All-Purpose Flour – 0.75 cup; serves as the base for a perfect streusel.
Rolled Oats – 0.5 cup; adds delightful texture and chewiness to the topping.
Brown Sugar – 0.5 cup; brings sweetness and moisture to the mix.
Cinnamon – 0.5 tsp; offers aromatic warmth that complements the filling.
Nutmeg – 0.25 tsp; enhances the spiciness and adds depth.
Cold Unsalted Butter – 0.5 cup, cubed; creates that irresistible crumbly texture we all love in a streusel.

Get ready to dive into the wonderful world of flavors with this stunning Cranberry Pie!

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

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1.25 cups of all-purpose flour, 0.5 tsp of salt, and 1 tbsp of sugar. Cut in 0.5 cup of chilled and cubed unsalted butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add 4 tbsp of ice water, mixing until the dough starts to come together. Form it into a disk, wrap it in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven
While the crust chills, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). After 30 minutes, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface into a circle large enough to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Transfer the rolled dough to the pie dish, trim any overhanging edges, and chill again for at least 15 minutes to ensure a flaky texture during baking.

Step 3: Make the Cranberry Filling
In a medium saucepan, combine 3 cups of fresh or frozen cranberries, 0.75 cup granulated sugar, 2 tbsp brown sugar, and 2 tbsp of flour. Add 1 tsp of orange zest, 0.25 cup of fresh orange juice, 1 tsp of vanilla extract, 0.5 tsp of cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and becomes bubbly. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 4: Prepare the Streusel Topping
In a separate mixing bowl, combine 0.75 cup of all-purpose flour, 0.5 cup of rolled oats, 0.5 cup of brown sugar, 0.5 tsp of cinnamon, and 0.25 tsp of nutmeg. Cut in 0.5 cup of cold unsalted butter until the mixture is crumbly and resembles coarse crumbs. This streusel topping will add a delightful crunch to your Cranberry Pie.

Step 5: Assemble the Pie
Once the cranberry filling has cooled, pour it into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the streusel topping generously over the cranberry mixture, pressing down lightly to help it adhere. This will create a beautiful, textured surface once baked, ensuring that every bite of your Cranberry Pie with Streusel Topping is a treat.

Step 6: Bake the Pie
Place the assembled pie in the preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the filling is bubbling and the streusel topping is golden brown. To prevent the edges of the crust from browning too quickly, cover them with strips of aluminum foil if necessary.

Step 7: Cool and Serve
After baking, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. This waiting period allows the filling to set beautifully. Serve slices of your Cranberry Pie with Streusel Topping warm or at room temperature, ideally paired with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance its festive flavor.

How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Pie with Streusel Topping

Fridge: Store leftover pie in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, covering it loosely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil; it can stay in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy your Cranberry Pie with Streusel Topping, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating: To warm, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Enjoy it warm with whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream!

Cranberry Pie with Streusel Topping Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine with these tempting variations, making each pie a unique experience!

Apple-Cranberry Pie: Stir in thinly sliced apples for an added layer of sweetness and texture. This duo celebrates the best of fall flavors!
Cranberry-Pear Pie: Mix freshly diced pears into your tart filling. The natural sweetness of pears beautifully complements the tanginess of cranberries.
Cranberry Crumble Bars: Transform the recipe by layering filling and streusel in a baking pan. Bake until golden for convenient, handheld delights that everyone will love!
Cranberry-Orange Cream Pie: After baking, top with a light, fluffy whipped cream infused with orange zest. It adds a refreshing brightness to your warm pie.
Nutty Streusel: For a crunchier topping, fold in chopped pecans or walnuts with your streusel. The nuttiness enriches the flavor and provides a satisfying crunch.
Spiced Cranberry Pie: Enhance the filling with spices like ginger or cardamom for a unique twist that kicks up the warmth and complexity.
Chocolate-Cranberry Pie: Fold in dark chocolate chips to the cranberry filling for a sweet counterpoint. The melted chocolate creates an irresistible dessert experience!
Vegan Version: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg for the crust and filling, making a deliciously dairy-free pie for everyone to enjoy.

Explore these variations and make your own delicious memories with each pie! And if you’re looking for more cranberry inspiration, check out my recipes for Feta Cranberry Rigatoni and Cranberry Apple Slaw. Happy baking!

Make Ahead Options

These Cranberry Pie with Streusel Topping are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the pie crust up to 3 days in advance; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to keep it fresh and flakey. The cranberry filling can also be made ahead—store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply preheat the oven, assemble the pie by pouring the filling into the crust, topping it with streusel, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious dessert with minimal last-minute effort, impressing your guests with ease!

Expert Tips for Cranberry Pie with Streusel Topping

Use Fresh Cranberries: Fresh cranberries yield the best texture and tartness. If using frozen, allow them to thaw and drain excess moisture.
Chill Your Ingredients: Keeping butter and dough cold ensures a flaky crust. Don’t rush the chilling process; it’s vital for texture!
Adjust Sweetness: Taste the cranberry filling before pouring it into the crust. You may want to reduce sugar if you prefer a tart pie.
Customize Topping: For added crunch, mix in chopped pecans or walnuts into the streusel before topping the pie.
Cover Edges: If you notice the crust browning too fast during baking, shield it with foil to prevent burning while the filling cooks.
Let it Cool: Allow your Cranberry Pie with Streusel Topping to cool completely before slicing. This helps the filling set, making for cleaner slices.

What to Serve with Cranberry Pie with Streusel Topping

The rich flavors of tart cranberries paired with the crunchy streusel topping make this pie an exquisite centerpiece, but it’s even better when accompanied by delightful pairings for a complete experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic choice, the creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream beautifully complements the tartness of the pie, creating a delicious contrast. The cold, velvety scoop melts into the warm pie, making every bite even more indulgent!
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, freshly whipped cream adds a luscious touch to each slice of cranberry pie. It enhances the flavors without overpowering them, making your dessert feel effortlessly elegant.
Pecan Pie: Offering a different texture to the dessert table, pecan pie’s rich sweetness pairs perfectly with the tangy cranberry pie. It’s a festive contrast that invites guests to enjoy a variety of flavors.
Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider brings out the warmth of the spices in your pie, creating a cozy atmosphere. Sipping this fragrant drink alongside the pie warms both heart and soul.
Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses, like creamy brie or sharp cheddar, can offer a savory note against the sweet cranberry flavors. This contrast creates a balanced experience on your palate, enhancing the festive dining experience.
Chocolate Ganache Tart: For those who fancy a chocolate pairing, a rich chocolate tart adds an extra layer of indulgence. The bittersweet chocolate complements the sweetness and tartness of your cranberry pie beautifully.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad balances the richness of the pie while bringing a pop of color to your table. Seasonal fruits like oranges and pears harmonize well with the cranberry flavors.
Hot Tea or Coffee: Retain the cozy vibe with a warm cup of tea or coffee. The slight bitterness of coffee or the soothing notes of herbal tea can create a delightful palate cleanser with each bite of pie.

Cranberry Pie with Streusel Topping Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best cranberries?
Absolutely! When choosing cranberries, look for ones that are firm and bright in color; avoid any that are soft or have dark spots. Fresh cranberries are preferred for their shape and tartness, which create a beautiful filling in your Cranberry Pie with Streusel Topping.

What’s the best way to store leftover cranberry pie?
Very! Leftover pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to cover it loosely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. If you plan to enjoy it later, freezing is a great option!

Can I freeze cranberry pie? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Cranberry Pie with Streusel Topping, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil for extra protection. It can remain frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

What should I do if my pie filling is too runny?
Not a problem! If your filling comes out too runny, you can add a bit more flour to thicken it, or try simmering the mixture a bit longer to allow more moisture to evaporate. If all else fails, a sprinkle of cornstarch can help absorb excess liquid.

Can this pie be made gluten-free?
Certainly! To make a gluten-free version of your Cranberry Pie with Streusel Topping, simply use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend in place of all-purpose flour for both the crust and the filling. Ensure all added ingredients, like baking powder and oats, are certified gluten-free.

Is this pie safe for pets or those with allergies?
Very! While cranberries are generally safe for pets in small amounts, the sugars and other ingredients in the pie, such as butter and sugar, may not be suitable. Always consult your veterinarian before sharing human food with pets. If anyone has allergies to gluten or dairy, make sure to adapt the recipe accordingly!