Cranberry Cool Whip Pie
Cranberry Cool Whip Pie is a refreshing dessert that combines the tartness of cranberry sauce with the creaminess of Cool Whip and cream cheese. This easy-to-make pie offers a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or just enjoying a family dinner, this pie is sure to impress.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Cranberry Cool Whip Pie is a simple way to enjoy a delicious dessert without a lot of fuss. The ingredients are easy to find, and the steps are straightforward. This recipe is great for those who may not have a lot of baking experience or those looking for a quick and refreshing dessert option. Plus, it looks beautiful on a table, making it a great choice for gatherings and celebrations.
How to Make Cranberry Cool Whip Pie
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made graham cracker pie crust
- 1 can (14 oz) whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tub (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fresh cranberries or orange zest, for garnish (optional)
Directions
- In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined.
- Stir in cranberry sauce until evenly incorporated.
- Gently fold in Cool Whip until light and fluffy.
- Spoon the filling into the graham cracker crust and smooth the top.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until set.
- Garnish with fresh cranberries or orange zest before serving if desired.
How to Serve Cranberry Cool Whip Pie
Serve Cranberry Cool Whip Pie chilled. It makes a refreshing dessert that pairs nicely with coffee or tea. You can slice the pie into wedges and serve right from the pie crust. Adding a dollop of extra Cool Whip or a sprinkle of fresh fruit on each slice can make it even more appealing.
How to Store Cranberry Cool Whip Pie
Store any leftover Cranberry Cool Whip Pie in the refrigerator. Cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing this pie, as the texture of the Cool Whip may change when thawed.
Tips to Make Cranberry Cool Whip Pie
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less powdered sugar according to your taste.
- For a more colorful pie, feel free to add additional fruit like raspberries or blueberries.
Variation
If you want to change things up, you can use flavored Cool Whip or replace half of the cranberry sauce with another fruit sauce, like raspberry or strawberry. This will give the pie a unique twist while still keeping it delicious.
FAQs
1. Can I use homemade cranberry sauce instead of canned?
Yes, you can use homemade cranberry sauce to give the pie a fresher taste. Just make sure it’s cooled before adding it to the mix.
2. How long does it take for the pie to set?
The pie needs to chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours to set properly. For best results, it’s recommended to let it sit overnight.
3. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! Cranberry Cool Whip Pie can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge until you are ready to serve it.
