Description
This Cranberry Mousse Pie combines a crisp graham cracker crust with a tangy, smooth cranberry mousse filling, topped with whipped cream, fresh cranberries, and mint leaves. Perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you crave a fruity, creamy dessert with a festive flair.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cranberry Puree
- 1 1/2 cups fresh cranberries (or frozen, thawed)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust based on tartness)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Mousse Filling
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Toppings
- Fresh cranberries
- Whipped cream
- Mint leaves
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon. Add melted unsalted butter and mix until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Refrigerate while preparing the filling to set the crust.
- Make the cranberry puree: In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, granulated sugar, water, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens slightly, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool completely. For a smooth texture, blend the mixture and strain through a sieve to remove seeds and skins.
- Prepare the mousse filling: In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with vanilla extract and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the cranberry puree into the cheesecake mixture, then carefully fold in the whipped cream, ensuring the mousse remains light and airy.
- Assemble the pie: Pour the cranberry mousse evenly into the prepared crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours or until set.
- Garnish and serve: Just before serving, top the pie with dollops of whipped cream, fresh cranberries, and mint leaves for a festive appearance. Slice and enjoy this refreshing dessert.
Notes
- For a more intense cranberry flavor, adjust the sugar in the puree to taste.
- To save time, use pre-made graham cracker crust if desired.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the mousse.
- Chilling the pie sufficiently is crucial for the mousse to set properly.
- This pie is best enjoyed within 2 days of preparation for optimal freshness.
