Name: Delightful Cranberry Gingersnap Pie: A Holiday Must-Try
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 165 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Gingersnaps (Crushed); 1/2 cup Walnuts (Chopped, optional); 1/4 cup Brown Sugar (Can use coconut sugar); 1/2 cup Butter (Melted, or use coconut oil for dairy-free); 12 oz Fresh Cranberries; 2 cups Sugar (Adjust to taste); 4 large Eggs; 2 tbls Lemon Juice (Can substitute with lime juice); 1/4 tsp Kosher Salt; 2 tbls Additional Butter (At room temperature); 1 cup Sugared Cranberries (Optional); 1 sprig Fresh Thyme or Mint (Optional)

The aroma of freshly baked pies wafting through the house always brings back a sense of comfort and nostalgia. One pie that has become a staple during the festive season is the Cranberry Gingersnap Pie. Its eye-catching presentation and unique blend of sweet-tart flavors make it the star of any holiday table. This recipe not only offers a quick prep time, allowing you to spend more moments with loved ones, but it also serves as a delightful twist on traditional cranberry dishes—perfect for those seeking something special. Imagine a crunchy gingersnap crust enveloping luscious cranberry curd, resulting in a nostalgic yet contemporary treat. Are you ready to impress your guests with this stunning dessert? Let’s dive into the details!

Why is Cranberry Gingersnap Pie a Hit?

Irresistible Flavor Combination: The delightful pairing of spicy gingersnap crust with tangy cranberry filling creates a unique flavor profile that your taste buds will adore.

Visually Stunning: With its vibrant color and elegant presentation, this pie is guaranteed to be the showstopper at any holiday gathering.

Quick and Easy Prep: In less than an hour, you can whip up this pie, giving you more time to enjoy with family and friends.

Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a sophisticated dessert at dinner parties or a festive treat during holiday celebrations—its appeal is universal!

Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it a couple of days in advance to enhance the flavors and streamline your holiday meal prep.

Elevate your dessert game with this Cranberry Gingersnap Pie; it’s sure to become a cherished favorite! For other delicious holiday ideas, check out my Savory Christmas Cranberry or Sweet Potato Cranberry recipes!

Cranberry Gingersnap Pie Ingredients

For the Crust

Gingersnaps – Offers the primary sweetness and a delightful spicy flavor to the crust.
Walnuts – Adds rich texture; can swap for pecans or omit entirely for a nut-free pie.
Brown Sugar – Enhances sweetness of the crust; coconut sugar is a healthier substitute.
Butter – Binds crust ingredients beautifully; for a dairy-free version, use coconut oil.

For the Filling

Fresh Cranberries – The star of the filling; never substitute with dried cranberries as they alter the texture.
Sugar – Sweetens the cranberry curd; adjust the amount based on the tartness of the cranberries.
Eggs & Egg Yolks – Essential for structure and creaminess of the curd, ensuring it thickens properly.
Lemon Juice – Provides essential acidity; lime juice offers a refreshing twist if preferred.
Kosher Salt – Balances the overall flavors; no substitute needed.
Additional Butter – Enriches the cranberry curd; keep it at room temperature for easy mixing.

For Garnish

Sugared Cranberries & Fresh Thyme or Mint – Add a beautiful finish to your pie but are totally optional!

Gather these ingredients to create your unforgettable Cranberry Gingersnap Pie, sure to impress at any holiday gathering.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Gingersnap Pie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This crucial step ensures that your pie’s crust will bake evenly and achieve that perfect crispness. While the oven heats, gather your ingredients and equipment, including a food processor and a deep 9-inch pie plate, to streamline your cooking process.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust Mixture
In a food processor, combine gingersnaps, walnuts, brown sugar, and melted butter. Pulse until the mixture resembles fine crumbs, ensuring all components are fully blended. This fragrant and spicy mixture will form the lovely base for your Cranberry Gingersnap Pie. Take a moment to enjoy the aroma as it fills the kitchen!

Step 3: Form the Pie Crust
Press the gingersnap mixture evenly into the bottom and up the sides of your prepped pie plate, creating a solid crust that holds its shape when baked. Bake in your preheated oven for 10-15 minutes until the crust appears slightly darkened and fragrant. Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack before adding the filling.

Step 4: Make the Cranberry Filling
In a medium saucepan, combine fresh cranberries with 2 cups of sugar and enough water to cover. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally, allowing the cranberries to burst and soften over about 15 minutes. Once done, blend the mixture into a smooth purée using an immersion blender or a traditional blender.

Step 5: Cook the Curd Mixture
In a clean saucepan, whisk together the cranberry purée, eggs, egg yolks, remaining sugar, kosher salt, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat while stirring constantly—this will help your cranberry gingersnap filling thicken beautifully. Monitor for about 10 minutes, until the mixture coats the back of a spoon, indicating it’s ready for the next step.

Step 6: Strain the Filling
To achieve a silky texture, strain the thickened curd through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl, removing any lumps. Stir in the additional room-temperature butter until fully melted and incorporated. This step enriches the filling, giving your Cranberry Gingersnap Pie an indulgent finish.

Step 7: Assemble the Pie
Carefully pour the creamy filling into the cooled gingersnap crust, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Ensure there are no air bubbles, as a smooth surface creates a beautiful presentation. Place the pie in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, allowing ample time for the filling to set perfectly.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once chilled and set, your Cranberry Gingersnap Pie is ready to shine! If you’d like, top with sugared cranberries and a few sprigs of fresh thyme or mint for an elegant finish. This final step enhances its festive presentation, making it the perfect centerpiece for any holiday gathering.

Variations & Substitutions for Cranberry Gingersnap Pie

Customize your Cranberry Gingersnap Pie to suit your taste and dietary preferences with these delightful variations!

Nut-Free: Simply omit the walnuts from the crust and substitute additional gingersnaps for a crunchy base without nuts. This makes it perfect for gatherings where nut allergies are a concern.
Dairy-Free: Replace the butter in the crust and filling with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. You can still achieve that rich flavor while accommodating those with lactose intolerance.
Citrus Twist: Swap out the lemon juice for fresh lime or even orange juice for an intriguing new flavor profile. This simple change can elevate your pie with a refreshing zest!
Sweetener Options: Use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a more wholesome and lower-glycemic option in the crust. It adds depth without sacrificing flavor.
Texture Twist: Consider tossing in some crushed gingersnaps as a topping for added crunch when serving. It provides a delightful contrast to the smooth filling.
Individual Tarts: Instead of a pie, bake the filling in individual tart shells for easy serving at parties. Mini versions are sure to impress your guests and are oh-so-cute!
Extra Spice: For a bolder flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cranberry filling. This not only warms up the taste but also adds cozy holiday vibes.
Fruit Fusion: Mix fresh cranberries with other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry gingersnap delight. It’s a perfect way to explore seasonal fruits beyond cranberries.

Looking for more delicious ideas? Try making my Holiday Cranberry Pie or explore my Cranberry Meatballs Holiday for a festive touch!

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Cranberry Gingersnap Pies are perfect for busy cooks looking to streamline their holiday meal prep! You can prepare the gingersnap crust up to 3 days in advance, storing it tightly covered at room temperature to maintain its crunchiness. The cranberry filling can be made up to 24 hours ahead, just be sure to refrigerate it to keep it fresh and vibrant. When ready to assemble, pour the chilled filling into the pre-baked crust, and after chilling it for at least 2 hours, your beautiful pie will be set and ready for serving. This advance preparation saves you time, allowing you to enjoy the festive gathering with loved ones instead of being tied to the kitchen!

What to Serve with Cranberry Gingersnap Pie

Elevate your holiday meal by complementing this delightful pie with sides and drinks that echo its sweet-tart charm.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, the creaminess of vanilla ice cream enhances the pie’s vibrant flavors while providing a cool contrast.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a touch of indulgence, balancing the tartness of the cranberries beautifully.
Pecan Pie Bars: The rich, nutty flavors of pecan pie bars create a harmonious blend with the tanginess of the cranberry filling, perfect for dessert lovers!
Cheese Platter: A selection of tangy cheeses like goat or sharp cheddar can create a delightful contrast, enhancing the complexity of the pie.
Cranberry Mocktail: A refreshing drink made with cranberry juice, sparkling water, and mint, echoing the pie’s flavors while keeping the celebration festive.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Comfort in a cup! The warm spices resonate with the gingersnap crust, creating a cozy vibe that’s perfect for the season.
Chocolate Mousse: Rich and velvety, chocolate mousse offers a luxurious contrast to the pie’s tartness, making it an irresistible option for chocolate lovers.
Savory Stuffing: For a savory touch, serve some herbed stuffing alongside, as the savory notes can offer a lovely balance to the sweet dessert.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and zesty fruit salad can cleanse the palate and add brightness to your meal, making each bite of pie even more enjoyable.

The richness of cranberry gingersnap pie pairs wonderfully with a variety of flavors and textures, ensuring a memorable dining experience!

Expert Tips for Cranberry Gingersnap Pie

Thickening Magic: Ensure the curd reaches the right consistency by stirring constantly over medium heat; it should coat the back of a spoon for that perfect texture.

Smooth Curds: Use a fine mesh strainer to strain the filling and eliminate any lumps, achieving a silky smooth cranberry gingersnap pie.

Overnight Chill: For optimal flavor and texture, chill the pie overnight; it allows the filling to firm up beautifully before serving.

Fresh vs. Frozen: If using frozen cranberries, make sure they are completely thawed and drain excess moisture; this prevents a soggy crust.

Air Bubble Free: When pouring the filling into the crust, take care to smooth the surface and eliminate air bubbles for an aesthetically pleasing presentation.

Garnish Strategy: Add the sugared cranberries and fresh herbs just before serving to keep their vibrant appearance intact.

How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Gingersnap Pie

Fridge: Keep your Cranberry Gingersnap Pie covered in plastic wrap or aluminum foil in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help maintain its freshness and flavor.

Freezer: If you need to freeze the pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, transfer the frozen pie to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight. This ensures a smooth texture and delicious flavor.

Reheating: If you prefer a warm slice, gently reheat individual servings in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. Enjoy it warm or cold; both are delightful!

Cranberry Gingersnap Pie Recipe FAQs

What type of cranberries should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! I recommend using fresh cranberries for this recipe, as they provide the best texture and flavor. Dried cranberries will affect the consistency and sweetness of the filling. Look for firm, plump cranberries that are bright in color, avoiding any that have dark spots or are shriveled.

How should I store leftover Cranberry Gingersnap Pie?
You can store your Cranberry Gingersnap Pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing it.

Can I freeze Cranberry Gingersnap Pie?
Yes! To freeze your pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. This way, it can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture.

What if my curd doesn’t thicken properly?
Not to worry! If your cranberry curd isn’t thickening, continue cooking it over medium heat while stirring constantly until it coats the back of a spoon. This usually takes about 10 minutes. If it still seems too thin, let it cook a little longer. Straining the mixture after cooking can also help to achieve a smooth texture.

Is this pie suitable for people with nut allergies?
Very! You can make this pie nut-free by omitting the walnuts or replacing them with more gingersnaps in the crust. Just be sure to double-check the ingredients for any hidden nuts, especially in pre-packaged items like gingersnap cookies.

Can I use a different citrus juice in the curd?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute lemon juice with lime or even orange juice for a refreshing twist. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly, but it will still yield a delicious filling that complements the cranberry beautifully!