Cranberry Cool Whip Pie is a delightful dessert that combines the creamy goodness of Cool Whip and cream cheese with the tartness of cranberry sauce. This no-bake pie is perfect for gatherings, holidays, or just a sweet treat at home. Its light and refreshing taste makes it a hit with friends and family.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is easy to make and requires no baking, making it a great choice for anyone who wants a delicious dessert without a lot of effort. The balance of sweet and tart flavors from the cranberry and creamy base is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s a beautiful dish that can elevate any occasion.
How to Make Cranberry Cool Whip Pie
Ingredients:
- 1 (8 oz) container Cool Whip, thawed
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce (canned or homemade)
- 1 pre-made graham cracker pie crust
- Optional: fresh cranberries, orange zest, or mint for garnish
Directions:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
- Fold in the Cool Whip gently until fully incorporated.
- Swirl in the cranberry sauce, leaving some streaks for a marbled effect or mixing it fully for a uniform pink color.
- Spoon the mixture into the graham cracker crust and smooth the top.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
- Garnish with fresh cranberries, orange zest, or mint just before serving if desired.
How to Serve Cranberry Cool Whip Pie
Serve this pie chilled for the best taste. Slice it into wedges and place on dessert plates. You can add extra garnishes like fresh cranberries or a sprinkle of orange zest to make it look even more appealing.
How to Store Cranberry Cool Whip Pie
Keep any leftovers in the refrigerator. It’s best to cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. This pie can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Tips to Make Cranberry Cool Whip Pie
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Gently fold in the Cool Whip to keep the mixture light and fluffy.
- Don’t rush the chilling time; allowing it to set properly will enhance the flavor and texture.
Variation
You can try using different pie crusts like an Oreo crust or even a shortbread crust for a different flavor. Additionally, feel free to replace cranberry sauce with a fruit sauce of your choice for a unique twist.
FAQs
1. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, this pie is great for making ahead of time. You can prepare it a day or two in advance and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
2. Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
Yes, you can use dairy-free cream cheese and a dairy-free whipped topping to make a dairy-free version of this pie.
3. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of canned?
While fresh cranberries can be used, they are quite tart and may not create the same flavor profile. If using fresh cranberries, consider cooking them down with some sugar to sweeten them before using in the pie.
