Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the scent of zesty oranges mingling with tart cranberries filled the air, instantly brightening my mood. Creating a No Bake Cranberry Orange Cream Pie has become an unwritten tradition during the holiday season, where each slice sparks joy and nostalgia. This delightful dessert offers a creamy texture and tangy-sweet flavor that makes it a crowd-pleaser at gatherings, yet it’s refreshingly simple to prepare. With no need to heat up the oven, you can dedicate your time to savoring special moments with loved ones while this pie chills in the fridge. Ready to delight your taste buds and impress your guests? Let’s dive into this fuss-free, charming holiday treat that embodies the spirit of the season! Why is this pie a must-try? Heavenly Simplicity: This No Bake Cranberry Orange Cream Pie is incredibly easy to whip up, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal kitchen skills. Vibrant Flavors: The unique combination of tart cranberries and zesty oranges creates a festive burst of flavor, making it the perfect holiday dessert. Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Its creamy texture and bright color are sure to impress guests at your holiday gatherings, offering a refreshing alternative to classic desserts. Versatile Options: Feel free to customize this pie by experimenting with flavored cream cheese or adding a splash of bourbon for a grown-up twist. Effortless Preparation: With no baking involved, you can focus on what truly matters—creating lasting memories with loved ones while this pie chills, similar to our Brownie Ice Cream or a quick side like Cream Cheese Salami. Cranberry Orange Cream Pie Ingredients For the Crust • Graham Cracker Crust – Provides a sweet and crunchy base; substitute with crushed Oreos or gluten-free cookies for a different flavor. • Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness to balance the tanginess of cranberries. • Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor depth and aroma. • Butter – Binds the crust together; can use coconut oil for a dairy-free option. For the Filling • Fresh Cranberries – The main ingredient for the filling, adding tartness; can substitute with frozen cranberries. • Fresh Orange Juice – Provides acidity and flavor to brighten the filling. • Orange Zest – Infuses the pie with a refreshing citrus aroma. • Cream Cheese – Creates a rich and creamy texture in the filling. For the Topping • Heavy Whipping Cream – Adds lightness and fluffiness to the topping; can be replaced with non-dairy whipped cream. • Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the whipped cream for a perfect finish. • Toppings (optional) – Orange zest, sugared cranberries, or candied orange peels add an appealing garnish and extra flavor. Indulge in the joyous blend of flavors that this No Bake Cranberry Orange Cream Pie brings to your table—it’s the ultimate festive dessert! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Orange Cream Pie Step 1: Prepare the Crust Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F if you choose to bake your crust. In a food processor, pulse graham crackers into fine crumbs, then transfer them into a mixing bowl. Stir in granulated sugar and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie plate to create a nice, even base. Chill while you prepare the filling. Step 2: Make the Cranberry Filling In a medium saucepan, combine fresh cranberries and orange juice, bringing the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Lower the heat and add the orange zest and sugar; simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, stirring occasionally. Once thickened, remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature, providing a delightful tartness for the Cranberry Orange Cream Pie. Step 3: Whip the Cream In a large mixing bowl, begin whipping the heavy cream using an electric mixer on medium speed until it starts to thicken. Reduce the speed and incorporate orange juice, powdered sugar, orange zest, and vanilla extract. Continue whipping until soft peaks form, which may take about 3-5 minutes. This fluffy whipped cream will be folded into the cranberry mixture for the final touch to your pie. Step 4: Combine Mixtures In a separate bowl, blend softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the cooled cranberry mixture, stirring well to fully combine the flavors. Then, gently fold in half of the whipped cream until lightened, creating a luscious filling. Spread this combined mixture evenly over your chilled graham cracker crust, ensuring every corner is filled. Step 5: Top with Whipped Cream Using the remaining whipped cream, layer it over the cranberry filling, smoothing it out for a beautiful finish. Feel free to add additional orange zest or any optional toppings at this stage for extra garnishing. This final layer will enhance the presentation of your No Bake Cranberry Orange Cream Pie before it heads to the fridge. Step 6: Chill Cover your pie lightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the filling to set properly, achieving that perfect creamy consistency. Serve it chilled, and enjoy the refreshing and festive taste of your homemade Cranberry Orange Cream Pie! Cranberry Orange Cream Pie Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this delightful pie for your taste buds! Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy whipping cream and cream cheese with non-dairy alternatives. Coconut cream and vegan cream cheese work beautifully! Bourbon Twist: Add a splash of bourbon to the cranberry filling for a flavorful adult variation that adds warmth and depth to your pie. Frozen Fruit: Swap fresh cranberries for frozen ones, but remember to simmer them a bit longer until they break down and thicken. Nutty Crust: Mix in ground nuts like almonds or pecans with your graham cracker crust for a deliciously crunchy twist that adds texture. Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate your pie by drizzling melted dark or white chocolate over the top before serving—it adds a sweet touch that pairs well. Seasoned Cream Cheese: Experiment with flavored cream cheese, such as vanilla or orange-infused, for an exciting flavor profile with minimal effort. Playful Toppings: Use a variety of toppings such as candied ginger or crushed pistachios for a playful and colorful presentation—each bite will surprise! Layered Dessert: Transform this pie into a layered parfait by alternating the cranberry filling and whipped cream in individual dessert cups for an eye-catching treat. With these delightful variations, you’re bound to impress at your next gathering or simply indulge on a cozy evening at home. If you’re looking for more inspiration, be sure to check out our Fiery Chicken Ramen or the comforting Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells for balanced, delicious meals that everyone will love! Make Ahead Options This No Bake Cranberry Orange Cream Pie is a fantastic option for meal prep, letting you enjoy its delightful flavors with minimal last-minute stress! You can prepare the graham cracker crust and the cranberry filling up to 24 hours ahead of time; simply store the crust covered in plastic wrap and refrigerate the filling in an airtight container. To maintain quality, whip the cream fresh right before serving, as this will ensure it stays fluffy and vibrant. When you’re ready to serve, layer the cranberry filling over the crust, top with whipped cream, and let it chill briefly. This approach ensures your Cranberry Orange Cream Pie remains just as delicious and visually appealing, perfect for busy holiday gatherings! How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Orange Cream Pie Fridge: Keep the pie refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This will maintain its creamy texture and freshness while ready for a delightful dessert. Freezer: If you want to make it ahead, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. Serving: For the best taste, enjoy the Cranberry Orange Cream Pie chilled. Add any desired garnishes just before serving to maintain freshness and presentation. Make Ahead: You can prepare this pie a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and saving you time during holiday preparations. What to Serve with No Bake Cranberry Orange Cream Pie Savor the harmonious flavors of your holiday meal by pairing this creamy pie with delightful sides and drinks that elevate every bite. Fresh Salad: A light mixed greens salad with a citrus vinaigrette complements the pie’s sweetness and adds a refreshing crunch. Roasted Vegetables: The savory char of roasted Brussels sprouts or carrots balances the dessert’s sweetness, providing a colorful and nutritious side. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These indulgent mashed potatoes bring a comforting, velvety texture that beautifully contrasts the pie’s lightness. For a cohesive feast, consider serving a warm side dish alongside. The rich creaminess of the mashed potatoes will create a delightful experience, making every bite an adventure on the palate. This is the perfect time to gather around the table and enjoy each others’ company. Spiced Apple Cider: This warm, fragrant drink enhances the holiday spirit and perfectly complements the bright flavors of the pie. Gingerbread Cookies: Their spicy sweetness echoes the festive flavors of cranberries and oranges, offering a deliciously nostalgic dessert option. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the tart cream pie, adding an extra layer of indulgence that everyone will love. Expert Tips for Cranberry Orange Cream Pie Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor; while frozen cranberries work, they may require additional cooking time for consistency. Whipping Cream: Beat the heavy cream until stiff peaks form; this is crucial for keeping the pie light and airy instead of dense. Chill Properly: Don’t skip the chilling step! Allow the pie to cool for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to let the flavors meld perfectly. Customize Flavors: Experiment with flavored cream cheese for unique variations—vanilla or orange cream cheese can add a delightful twist to your Cranberry Orange Cream Pie. Garnish Creatively: Elevate presentation by adding sugared cranberries or a sprinkle of orange zest just before serving for an extra festive touch. Cranberry Orange Cream Pie Recipe FAQs What kind of cranberries should I use? I recommend using fresh cranberries for the best flavor and texture in your Cranberry Orange Cream Pie. If you must use frozen cranberries, be prepared to simmer them longer—about 15 minutes—to achieve the desired consistency, as they may need extra time to break down. How long can I store the pie in the fridge? You can keep your pie refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This keeps its creamy texture and luscious taste intact, making it easy to enjoy as a delightful dessert whenever you like! Can I freeze my Cranberry Orange Cream Pie? Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving to preserve its creamy goodness. What should I do if my whipped cream doesn’t hold its shape? If your whipped cream seems too runny, you may not have whipped it to stiff peaks. Always whip until you see those nice peaks forming—this typically takes 3-5 minutes. Alternatively, you can add a bit of cornstarch or powdered sugar to stabilize it. Just sprinkle then whip it a bit more until you achieve the right texture. Is this pie suitable for those with dairy allergies? Yes, you can easily modify this recipe! Substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese, and use coconut milk or non-dairy whipped cream for an entirely dairy-free version. This way, everyone can enjoy the festive flavors of the Cranberry Orange Cream Pie! Cranberry Orange Cream Pie: A Festive No-Bake Delight This Cranberry Orange Cream Pie is a simple, no-bake dessert bursting with vibrant flavors and creamy texture, perfect for festive gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsChilling Time 4 hours hrsTotal Time 4 hours hrs 45 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Crust1 cup Graham Crackers crushed2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract5 tablespoons Butter meltedFor the Filling2 cups Fresh Cranberries1/2 cup Fresh Orange Juice1 tablespoon Orange Zest8 ounces Cream Cheese softenedFor the Topping1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream2 tablespoons Powdered SugarToppings (optional) Orange zest, sugared cranberries, or candied orange peels Equipment food processorMixing bowlElectric Mixerpie plateSaucepan Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPrepare the crust by crushing graham crackers and mixing with sugar and melted butter. Press into pie plate and chill.Make the cranberry filling by boiling cranberries with orange juice, then add zest and sugar, simmer until thickened.Whip heavy cream until thick, then fold in powdered sugar, orange juice, and zest to create the topping.Combine the cranberry mixture with whipped cream and cream cheese. Spread over the crust.Top with remaining whipped cream and optional garnishes. Chill for at least 4 hours before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 3gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 30gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg NotesFor best results, use fresh ingredients and chill the pie overnight to enhance flavor. Customize with different cream cheese flavors for a unique twist. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!