Introduction
Why do cranberry desserts feel so special — especially around the holidays and cooler months? Cranberries offer that bright, tart burst of flavor that cuts beautifully through sweetness, creating desserts that are balanced and refreshing rather than overly rich. This Cranberry Pie with Streusel Topping features a golden, buttery crust filled with a sweet-tart cranberry filling and topped with a crispy brown sugar crumble that adds warmth and texture to every bite.
The result? A dessert that’s comforting yet lively, perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, winter gatherings, brunch tables, or simply celebrating cranberry season. It’s gorgeous, festive, and surprisingly easy to make — no complicated steps required.
Ingredients List
For the Pie Filling
- 1 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 3 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Zest of 1 orange (optional but recommended)
- 1 tablespoon orange juice or lemon juice
For the Streusel Topping
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup cold butter, cubed
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Timing
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Baking Time | 45–55 minutes |
| Cooling Time | 1 hour |
| Total Time | ~2 hours (mostly cooling) |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Place pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish and crimp edges.
Optional: Pre-bake for 8 minutes to prevent sogginess.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a bowl, combine:
- Cranberries
- Sugar
- Cornstarch
- Cinnamon
- Vanilla
- Orange zest
- Orange juice
Stir until cranberries are evenly coated.
Step 3: Pour into Pie Crust
Spread the cranberry filling evenly into the crust.
Step 4: Make the Streusel
In a separate bowl, combine:
- Flour
- Brown sugar
- Cinnamon
- Salt
Cut in the butter using fingers or a pastry cutter until crumbly.
Sprinkle the streusel generously over the cranberry filling.
Step 5: Bake
Bake 45–55 minutes, until:
- Streusel is golden
- Filling is bubbly
- Crust is lightly browned
If edges brown too quickly, cover with foil.
Step 6: Cool
Cool 1 hour before slicing — the filling will set as it cools.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per slice)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~290 kcal |
| Carbs | 45g |
| Fat | 11g |
| Sugar | 30g |
| Protein | 2g |
Healthier Alternatives
| Goal | Swap |
|---|---|
| Lower Sugar | Reduce sugar by 1/4 cup or use 50/50 white + monk fruit |
| Gluten-Free | Use a gluten-free crust + gluten-free flour for streusel |
| Dairy-Free | Use vegan butter for the crumble |
| Deeper Flavor | Add a splash of maple syrup or brown butter to streusel |
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Vanilla ice cream
- Whipped cream
- Greek yogurt for breakfast-style slice
- Warm caramel drizzle
- A dusting of powdered sugar
Pairs beautifully with coffee, black tea, chai, or mulled cider.
Holiday Tip:
Bake in a disposable pie tin and wrap with ribbon for the perfect homemade gift.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Solution |
|---|---|
| Filling turns runny | Let pie cool fully — thickening happens as it cools |
| Streusel melts flat | Use cold butter and don’t over-mix |
| Crust browns too fast | Cover edges with foil halfway through |
| Cranberries too tart | Add extra tablespoon of sugar OR more orange zest |
Storing Tips
- Room Temperature: 1 day
- Refrigerator: Up to 4 days
- Freeze: Up to 2 months (wrap tightly)
Reheat slices 10–20 seconds in microwave or 5–8 minutes in warm oven.
Conclusion
This Cranberry Pie with Streusel Topping is the perfect blend of bright, festive cranberries and buttery cinnamon crumble. It’s warm, cozy, and wonderfully textured — a must-bake recipe when cranberry season rolls around. Whether served for the holidays or a casual afternoon coffee treat, it delivers homemade comfort in every slice.
Try it soon — and come back to share your version!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes — no need to thaw before mixing.
2. Can I make this ahead?
Yes — bake the day before and refrigerate.
3. Can I use apple instead of cranberries?
Yes — or try a 50/50 cranberry+apple mix for a sweeter variation.
4. Can I double the streusel?
Absolutely — more crumble = more happiness.
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