As I reached for the last slice of pie at the Thanksgiving table, a surprising thought crossed my mind: Why hasn’t anyone made a cranberry mousse pie before? This delightful no-bake creation brings a light and airy bite to your dessert table, featuring a zesty cranberry filling nestled in a spicy gingersnap crust. The best part? You can whip it up in just 30 minutes! This Cranberry Mousse Pie is a refreshing change from the heavy holiday desserts, making it the perfect sweet ending to your festive meal. Whether you’re planning a cozy family gathering or a vibrant holiday feast, this stunning pie is sure to steal the show. Who’s ready to impress their guests with a pie that looks as good as it tastes?
Why choose a no-bake dessert?
Easy to Prepare: This Cranberry Mousse Pie eliminates the hassle of baking, allowing you to create a stunning dessert in just 30 minutes.
Refreshing Twist: The tart cranberry filling paired with the spicy gingersnap crust transforms traditional flavors into something uniquely delightful.
Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings or any festive occasion, this pie is sure to wow your guests.
Guilt-Free Indulgence: With only 222 calories per slice, you can enjoy a light dessert without compromising on taste.
Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare this pie a day in advance, freeing up your time for other holiday preparations! And if you’re looking for more ways to enjoy cranberries, check out my recipe for Cranberry Brie Bites or give my Cranberry Pineapple Upside Down Cake a try for another festive option.
Cranberry Mousse Pie Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need!
For the Mousse
- Cranberries – Provides tartness and depth to the mousse; fresh or frozen work beautifully.
- Sugar – Sweetens the cranberry mixture; adjust based on your tartness preference.
- Water – Helps cook the cranberries down into a puree for smooth texture.
- Cream Cheese – Adds rich creaminess to the mousse filling; opt for brick-style for the best consistency.
- Vanilla Paste – Enhances flavor depth; vanilla extract is a great substitute.
- Cool Whip Extra Creamy Whipped Topping – Creates a light, fluffy texture; homemade sweetened whipped cream is a lovely alternative.
For the Crust
- Gingersnap Crumbs – Forms the delicious crust with a spicy flavor; digestive biscuit crumbs can be used as an alternative.
- Melted Butter – Binds the crust ingredients together, ensuring a secure base.
Optional Garnish
- Whipped Topping or Cream – Adds a velvety finish on top of the pie.
- Sugared Cranberries – Perfect for decoration, bringing a touch of festivity.
- Mint Leaves – A fresh touch to brighten up your dessert presentation.
Enjoy every bite of this delightful Cranberry Mousse Pie, a refreshing addition to your holiday spread!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Mousse Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Plate
Butter a 10-inch pie plate, ensuring the entire surface is coated evenly. This will prevent the gingersnap crust from sticking. Set the plate aside while you prepare the rest of the ingredients, visualizing a smooth, beautiful pie waiting for its filling.
Step 2: Cook the Cranberries
In a medium saucepan, combine fresh or frozen cranberries, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently. Cook for about 15 minutes until the mixture thickens and the cranberries burst, creating a vibrant, chunky puree.
Step 3: Blend the Cranberry Puree
Once thickened, remove the saucepan from heat and let the cranberry mixture cool slightly. Carefully transfer it to a blender or food processor, and blend until smooth. This will transform the mixture into a silky puree. Chill the puree in the refrigerator while you prepare the crust.
Step 4: Make the Gingersnap Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine gingersnap crumbs and melted butter, stirring well until the mixture resembles damp sand. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom and up the sides of the prepared pie plate, making sure it’s compact. Refrigerate the crust while you focus on the mousse filling.
Step 5: Blend the Mousse Filling
In a large mixing bowl, blend the cooled cranberry puree, cream cheese, and vanilla paste using an electric mixer. Beat until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. Take a moment to savor the gorgeous color of your cranberry mousse as the textures meld beautifully.
Step 6: Fold in the Whipped Topping
Gently fold in the Cool Whip until no streaks remain, ensuring a fluffy texture. This step is crucial for achieving the light and airy quality of the Cranberry Mousse Pie. The mixture should be beautifully blended, showcasing a soft pink hue from the cranberries.
Step 7: Assemble the Pie
Spread the cranberry mousse filling into the chilled gingersnap crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Take your time to create an even layer, as this will be the radiant centerpiece of your dessert. Visualize how enticing it will look once garnished!
Step 8: Chill to Set
Cover the assembled pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for several hours or ideally overnight. This chilling time is essential for the mousse to set properly, allowing the flavors to marry beautifully.
Step 9: Garnish Before Serving
Once set, remove the pie from the refrigerator and garnish as desired. Add a dollop of whipped topping, a scattering of sugared cranberries, or fresh mint leaves to elevate the presentation. Your delightful Cranberry Mousse Pie is now ready to dazzle at the holiday table!
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Cranberry Mousse Pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the gingersnap crust and the cranberry mousse filling up to 24 hours in advance. First, make the crust and refrigerate it as instructed. Next, cook the cranberries and blend them into a puree, then mix with cream cheese and Cool Whip. Assemble the mousse filling, spread it into the chilled crust, and cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent moisture loss. When it’s time to serve, simply garnish the pie as desired, and you’ll have a stunning dessert that tastes just as delicious as if made fresh!
Expert Tips for Cranberry Mousse Pie
Choose the Right Cranberries: Make sure the cranberries are fully cooked down to avoid excess moisture, ensuring a firmer pie that holds its shape beautifully.
Smooth Blending: Use a food processor to blend the cream cheese with the cooled cranberry puree; this helps achieve a silky-smooth filling that is essential for a perfect mousse.
Chill Time Matters: Allow ample chilling time after assembling your Cranberry Mousse Pie; this is vital for the mousse to set properly and develop its flavors.
Substitute Wisely: If you’re using homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip, remember to sweeten it to taste, as this will affect the overall sweetness of the filling.
Decorative Garnishes: Enhance presentation with whipped topping, sugared cranberries, or mint leaves; a lovely garnish can elevate your dessert and impress your guests.
How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Mousse Pie
Fridge: Store the uncut Cranberry Mousse Pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness and flavor.
Freezer: If you need to keep it longer, freeze the pie before garnishing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, storing for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: This dessert is best served chilled and does not require reheating. Simply let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes for easier slicing before serving.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the pie a day in advance, allowing it to set properly in the fridge. Just remember to cover it well to prevent moisture absorption.
Cranberry Mousse Pie Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on the Cranberry Mousse Pie, making it uniquely yours!
- Vegan Version: Replace cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative and use coconut whipped cream for a delightful, dairy-free mousse.
- Flavored Crust: Use chocolate cookie crumbs for a decadent crust or almond crumbs for a nutty twist that pairs beautifully with cranberries.
- Fruit Fusion: Add diced pears or apples to the cranberry puree for extra texture and sweetness, creating a surprise in every bite.
- Citrus Zing: Incorporate some orange or lemon zest into the mousse filling for a fresh, bright flavor that beautifully complements the tartness of the cranberries.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mousse for a hint of heat that balances the sweetness and tartness perfectly.
- Nutty Crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, into the mousse before setting for a delightful crunch and added richness.
- Low-Sugar Option: Substitute granulated sugar with your favorite sweetener or reduce the sugar to suit your taste, without sacrificing the lovely flavor.
- Garnish Variety: Instead of sugared cranberries, top with crushed pistachios or toasted coconut for a unique and eye-catching finish that adds more texture.
For more delightful recipes using cranberries, consider making some Cranberry Honey Butter or indulge in Mini Pecan Pie Cheesecakes for a delightful holiday treat!
What to Serve with Cranberry Mousse Pie
Elevate your holiday celebration with delightful accompaniments that will complement the light and airy texture of this tempting dessert.
Spiced Apple Cider: A warm cup of spiced apple cider adds a cozy, fragrant element, enhancing the flavors of the cranberries.
Gingerbread Cookies: These nostalgic treats echo the gingersnap crust while providing a satisfying crunch, perfect for dipping into the fluffy mousse.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream brings an extra layer of creaminess that pairs beautifully with the tart mousse, creating a luscious experience.
Sugared Cranberries: These sparkly bites offer a burst of sweetness, making them an elegant garnish that adds a festive touch to your pie.
Pecan Pie: For those who appreciate variety, a classic pecan pie brings a buttery richness that balances the tartness of the cranberry mousse perfectly.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream alongside warms up the palate, making for a delightful contrast to the chilled mousse.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of fresh fruits will add vibrant colors and refreshing textures, offering a light and healthy counterpoint to the richness of the dessert.
Sparkling Water with Lime: Refresh your palate with a glass of sparkling water infused with mint and lime—it’s a refreshing contrast that enhances the berry flavors.
Cranberry Mousse Pie Recipe FAQs
What type of cranberries should I use for the mousse?
Absolutely! You can use either fresh or frozen cranberries for this cranberry mousse pie. If using frozen cranberries, there’s no need to thaw them; just toss them straight into the saucepan with the sugar and water. Fresh cranberries should be firm and bright, without any dark spots or blemishes.
How do I store the Cranberry Mousse Pie?
Store the uncut Cranberry Mousse Pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its freshness and flavor. If it’s already sliced, simply place it in an airtight container, and it will last for the same duration.
Can I freeze the Cranberry Mousse Pie?
Yes, you can! To freeze the Cranberry Mousse Pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to serve it, thaw the pie in the refrigerator overnight. For the best texture, avoid freezing any garnishes, as they may not hold up well once thawed.
What should I do if my mousse isn’t setting properly?
Very! If you find that your mousse isn’t setting as expected, it may be due to excess moisture in the cranberry mixture. To troubleshoot, ensure that you fully cook the cranberries until thickened and completely cool the puree before blending it with the cream cheese. Additionally, allowing for sufficient chilling time after assembly is essential; aim to chill for at least 4-6 hours, or ideally overnight.
Is this pie suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! For those with dietary restrictions, this recipe can easily be modified. To make it vegan, simply substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative and use coconut whipped cream instead of Cool Whip. It’s also a great option for those who are lactose intolerant and want to enjoy a delightful holiday dessert without any worries!
Delightful Cranberry Mousse Pie for Your Holiday Table
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Butter a 10-inch pie plate evenly.
- In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, and water; bring to boil and cook for about 15 minutes.
- Transfer to a blender and blend until smooth; chill the puree.
- Mix gingersnap crumbs and melted butter, then press the mixture into the pie plate and refrigerate.
- Blend cranberry puree, cream cheese, and vanilla until smooth.
- Gently fold in the Cool Whip until fully combined.
- Spread cranberry mousse into the gingersnap crust and smooth the top.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for several hours or overnight.
- Garnish before serving with whipped topping, sugared cranberries, or mint leaves.