Cranberry Mousse Pie offers a delightful fusion of tartness and sweetness, perfect for any occasion from holiday celebrations to simple family dinners. This creamy dessert is easy to whip up, making it a favorite among busy bakers like myself. The smooth mousse, paired with a crunchy gingersnap crust, creates a satisfying texture that will have everyone coming back for seconds. It’s one of those recipes that not only tastes great but also brings joy and warmth to the table, especially when shared with loved ones.
Why Make This Recipe
This Cranberry Mousse Pie is special for many reasons. First, it combines the refreshing taste of cranberries with the decadence of cream cheese and whipped cream, making it a light yet flavorful dessert. It also offers a unique twist on traditional holiday pies, and its no-bake nature makes it easy to prepare even on busy days. The gingersnap crust adds the perfect amount of spice, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
"This pie became an instant hit at our family holiday gathering, everyone was asking for the recipe," shares a thrilled home baker.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something sweet to finish your meal, this Cranberry Mousse Pie is a delightful choice that brightens up any occasion.
How to Make Cranberry Mousse Pie
Creating this delicious Cranberry Mousse Pie is a simple process that anyone can master. Start by preparing the gingersnap crust, where you combine cookie crumbs with melted butter and press them into the pie pan. Bake the crust until it’s golden and set. While the crust cools, cook the cranberries with sugar until they burst and thicken into a sauce, allowing it to cool completely to ensure the flavors meld nicely.
Next, whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks and blend the softened cream cheese with the cranberry mixture and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped cream for that light and airy texture. Once mixed, pour the mousse filling into the crust and refrigerate until set. It’s important for the pie to chill properly, so don’t skip this step! When you’re ready, serve chilled for a perfectly refreshing dessert.
Ingredients
To make this delectable Cranberry Mousse Pie, you will need the following ingredients:
2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
1 cup sugar
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
1 cup gingersnap cookie crumbs
4 tablespoons butter, melted
For a dairy-free option, you can use coconut cream in place of heavy whipping cream and a dairy-free cream cheese. If cranberries are not in season, feel free to substitute them with raspberries for a different, yet delicious flavor.
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine gingersnap cookie crumbs and melted butter, then press into the bottom of a pie pan to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
- In a saucepan, cook cranberries and sugar over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens. Allow to cool.
- In a bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth, then mix in the cooled cranberry mixture and vanilla extract.
- Fold the whipped cream into the cranberry mixture until combined.
- Pour the mousse filling into the prepared gingersnap crust and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
How to Serve Cranberry Mousse Pie
Serving this delightful pie is as easy as it is satisfying. Serve slices chilled, and consider topping each piece with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for added richness. You might also sprinkle crushed gingersnap cookies on top for an extra crunch and a lovely presentation. This pie pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of tea or coffee, making it a cozy dessert option for family gatherings or intimate dinners. You can also garnish with fresh cranberries or mint leaves for a pop of color.
How to Store
To keep your Cranberry Mousse Pie fresh, store it covered in the refrigerator, where it will last up to 5 days. If you find yourself with leftovers, you can freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. This way, they could last for up to a month. To enjoy later, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. It’s best served cold, so be sure to give it some time in the fridge if you’ve stored it in the freezer.
Tips to Make
For the perfect Cranberry Mousse Pie, follow these helpful tips. First, make sure your cream cheese is softened for easy mixing; this will ensure a smooth filling without lumps. When whipping the cream, take care not to over-whip it, as you want it to remain fluffy and airy in the mousse. Additionally, feel free to adjust the sugar to taste, depending on the tartness of your cranberries. If you wish, a splash of orange juice or zest can enhance the flavor of the cranberry mixture beautifully.
Variations
Looking to switch things up? There are plenty of creative twists you can try with this recipe. Consider using graham cracker crumbs for the crust instead of gingersnaps for a different flavor profile. You can also experiment with different berries, such as blueberries or strawberries, for a summer version of this dessert. For a more substantial dessert, try layering the mousse with a layer of chocolate ganache or mixing in some chocolate chips. These variations can make this pie suitable for different seasons and occasions.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, frozen cranberries work perfectly for this recipe. Just ensure they are defrosted before cooking.
How long does the mousse take to set?
Ideally, the mousse should set for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better for the texture.
Can I make this pie in advance?
Absolutely! This pie can be made a day or two in advance, making it a great option for stress-free entertaining.
What should I do if my cranberries are too tart?
If the cranberries turn out too tart, simply add a bit more sugar to the mixture while cooking. Taste as you go to achieve your desired sweetness.
For More Recipe Inspiration
If you’re looking for more delicious recipes, check out our protein muffins and mini bento cake recipe for fun, family-friendly treats that everyone will enjoy.
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Cranberry Mousse Pie
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, combine gingersnap cookie crumbs and melted butter, then press into the bottom of a pie pan to form the crust.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
- In a saucepan, cook cranberries and sugar over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens. Allow the mixture to cool.
- In a bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth, then mix in the cooled cranberry mixture and vanilla extract.
- Fold the whipped cream into the cranberry mixture until combined.
- Pour the mousse filling into the prepared gingersnap crust and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.