Cranberry Mousse Pie

Bright, festive, and impossibly light, this cranberry mousse pie is a showstopper that feels both elegant and effortless. A crisp gingersnap crust gives way to a cloudlike filling studded with a jewel-toned cranberry swirl, perfect for holiday tables or a cozy weeknight treat. The recipe is forgiving and comes together quickly, letting the cranberry flavor shine without overwhelming sweetness. If you love comforting twists on classic desserts, you might also enjoy a playful take on breakfast with Apple Pie French Toast Casserole tucked into your menu rotation.

Why This Recipe Is a Great Choice

This pie feels special but doesn’t demand complicated technique, which makes it ideal for bakers of every level. The gingersnap crust adds warm spice and structure while the mousse filling stays light thanks to whipped cream folded into a smooth cream cheese base. Fresh or frozen cranberries provide bright acidity and a gorgeous color, so the pie reads festive even without elaborate decoration. It’s versatile enough to serve at a casual potluck or plated for a dinner party, and the make-ahead nature frees you up on the day of serving. If you want another sweet and shareable treat with nostalgic flavors, check out these fun Apple Pie Rice Krispie Treats for more inspiration.

Flavor and Texture

The flavor balance is what makes this pie sing: tart cranberries and lemon lift the richness of cream cheese and heavy cream, while vanilla adds a soft, comforting note. Texturally it’s a delight the crunchy, spiced gingersnap crust provides a contrast to the airy, silky mousse. The cranberry layer has small bursts of softened fruit that complement the smooth filling instead of competing with it. Each chilled slice holds its shape but melts on the tongue, making every forkful feel indulgent and light at once. A sprinkle of extra crushed gingersnaps or a few whole cranberries on top makes for an elegant finish.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 package (9 oz) gingersnap cookies
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Step by Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Crush the gingersnap cookies and mix with melted butter; press into the bottom of a pie dish to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes and let cool.
3. In a saucepan, combine cranberries and sugar, and cook over medium heat until cranberries burst and mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. Let cool.
4. Beat cream cheese until smooth, add vanilla and lemon juice, and blend well.
5. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
6. Gently fold the cooled cranberry mixture into the cream cheese mixture, then fold in the whipped cream.
7. Pour the mousse into the cooled crust and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
8. Serve chilled and enjoy!

 

Tips for Best Results

Use a smooth, room-temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps in the filling; a quick beat with the paddle attachment or a hand mixer smooths it out beautifully. If your cranberries are especially tart, taste the cooked mixture and add a touch more sugar if needed—balanced sweetness keeps the mousse bright. Whip the cream to firm peaks but stop before it becomes grainy or starts to separate. Be gentle when folding to keep the filling airy; overmixing will deflate the mousse. Chill the pie long enough that it sets fully for clean slices when serving.

Storage and Make Ahead

This pie stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when covered, making it a convenient make-ahead dessert for gatherings. If you need to hold it longer, wrap tightly and freeze for up to one month; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. The crust will retain its crunch best when kept cold and not exposed to humid air for long periods. If serving after refrigeration, let slices sit a few minutes at room temperature for softer texture and brighter flavors.

Final Thought

Cranberry mousse pie strikes a lovely balance between festive presentation and everyday simplicity. It’s a great recipe to keep in your repertoire when you want an elegant dessert without fuss. The bright cranberry swirl and spiced crust turn a few pantry staples into something memorable.

FAQ

Can this be made in under 30 minutes?

Yes, the recipe is designed to be quick and efficient.

Does it work for meal prep?

Most versions store well for one to three days.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Yes, simple swaps can be made for convenience or dietary needs.

Conclusion

For a trusted, beautifully presented version of this idea, see the original Cranberry Mousse Pie Recipe on the New York Times website: Cranberry Mousse Pie Recipe.

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