No Bake Cranberry Pie

By Lily | Last modified on Dec 16, 2025

Featured in: Desserts

This No Bake Cranberry Pie is a perfect blend of tart cranberries and a creamy, luscious filling, creating a dessert that is both refreshing and indulgent. Its simplicity makes it an excellent choice for busy holiday gatherings or any occasion when you want a show-stopping dessert without turning on the oven.

The graham cracker crust provides a subtly sweet and crunchy base that complements the smooth filling and bursts of cranberry flavor. This pie not only delights your taste buds but also brings festive color and charm to your dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless no-bake method ideal for holiday entertaining or last-minute desserts
Combines creamy, tart, and sweet flavors for a balanced taste experience
Uses whole-berry cranberry sauce to add texture and vibrant color
A versatile dessert that pairs well with festive garnishes and drinks

Ingredients

Cream Cheese: 8 oz softened cream cheese provides a rich and creamy base for the filling, adding smooth texture and tanginess.
Powdered Sugar: 1 cup of finely powdered sugar sweetens the filling without graininess, blending seamlessly with cream cheese.
Orange Zest: 1 tablespoon, optional but highly recommended for bright citrus notes that complement the cranberries.
Whole-Berry Cranberry Sauce: 1 cup brings tartness and texture with whole cranberries, enhancing the pie’s festive flavor and appearance.
Whipped Topping: 8 oz adds lightness and airy texture, balancing the denser cream cheese mixture for a fluffy filling.
Graham Cracker Crust: 1 package provides a crunchy, sweet foundation, eliminating the need for baking and simplifying preparation.

Instructions

Soften and Blend Cream Cheese with Sugar and Orange Zest: Start by placing the softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl, then add the powdered sugar and optional orange zest. Beat them together on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until you achieve a smooth, creamy mixture free of lumps. This step ensures the filling has a flawless texture and a subtle citrusy brightness.
Incorporate Whole-Berry Cranberry Sauce: Reduce your mixer speed to low and gently blend in the whole-berry cranberry sauce for about one minute. This cautious mixing retains some berry texture and prevents overworking the filling while evenly distributing the tart fruit flavor.
Fold in Whipped Topping: Carefully fold the whipped topping into the cranberry mixture with a spatula. Folding maintains the airy quality and prevents deflating the whipped topping, resulting in a light and fluffy pie filling.
Fill the Graham Cracker Crust: Spread the combined filling evenly into the prepared graham cracker crust. Smooth the surface with your spatula, ensuring the filling is level and nicely shaped. This makes for a neater presentation and easier slicing after chilling.
Chill Until Set: Place the pie in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. Chilling allows the filling to firm up and flavors to meld beautifully, producing a sliceable and richly flavored pie.
Garnish and Serve: Before serving, decorate the pie with fresh cranberries, orange slices, or additional zest to add vibrant color and a fresh contrast. This final touch impresses guests and complements the pie’s flavors wonderfully.

You Must Know

The pie keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it an excellent make-ahead option.
If fresh cranberries are unavailable for garnish, dried cranberries or additional orange zest can provide a similar festive look.
Using full-fat cream cheese yields the best texture and flavor for this dessert.

Storage Tips

Store the no-bake cranberry pie covered in the refrigerator for up to three days to maintain its creamy texture and freshness. For longer storage, you can freeze the pie wrapped tightly but consume within one month for optimal taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled slices with a dollop of extra whipped topping or a dusting of powdered sugar for added sweetness. This pie pairs beautifully with warm spiced drinks like mulled cider or a simple cup of black coffee to balance its tart flavors.

Professional Tips

Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing, which helps achieve a smooth and creamy filling.
Gently folding in whipped topping preserves its lightness and improves the overall mouthfeel of the pie.
Use fresh orange zest instead of dried for the brightest citrus flavor.
Opt for a high-quality whole-berry cranberry sauce with visible berries for enhanced texture and visual appeal.

FAQs

Can I make this pie ahead of time?: Yes, this no-bake pie benefits from chilling overnight. It holds well for up to 3 days refrigerated, making it convenient for holiday planning.
Is it possible to use a homemade graham cracker crust?: Absolutely! A homemade graham cracker crust adds a fresh touch. Just ensure it is fully cooled before adding the filling to prevent sogginess.
Can I use regular whipped cream instead of whipped topping?: Yes, freshly whipped cream is a great substitute, but make sure it is whipped to soft peaks and folded gently to keep the pie light.
Is orange zest necessary in this pie?: Orange zest is optional but recommended. It adds a bright, citrusy aroma that complements the tart cranberries beautifully.
How do I slice the pie cleanly?: Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water and wiped dry between slices for clean cuts and a neat presentation.
Can this pie be frozen?: Yes, it can be frozen wrapped tightly for up to one month. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
What can I use as garnish besides fresh cranberries?: Orange slices, mint leaves, or a light dusting of powdered sugar all make excellent garnishes that enhance appearance and flavor.