Looking for a fast, festive dessert that tastes like the holidays but takes minimal effort? This Cranberry Cool Whip Pie is your new go-to! With a creamy filling, swirls of sweet-tart cranberry sauce, and a buttery graham cracker crust, this no-bake pie delivers the perfect mix of flavor and texture. Ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any occasion when you want a crowd-pleasing treat without turning on the oven.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
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No baking required—perfect for busy holidays
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Combines creamy, tangy, and sweet in every bite
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Uses Cool Whip and cranberry sauce for quick assembly
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A stunning presentation with minimal effort
Ingredients Breakdown
Crust:
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9-inch graham cracker pie crust
Filling:
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Cool Whip
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Cream cheese
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Powdered sugar
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Vanilla extract
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Whole berry cranberry sauce (canned or homemade)
Optional Garnish:
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Fresh cranberries
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Mint leaves
Tips and Tricks:
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Room-temperature cream cheese blends easier and gives a smoother texture.
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For a more intense cranberry swirl, warm the cranberry sauce slightly before adding.
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Want more crunch? Sprinkle chopped pecans or candied walnuts on top.
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Use homemade cranberry sauce for deeper flavor and texture.
Variations and Customizations:
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Lighter Version: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and sugar-free whipped topping.
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Chocolate Twist: Add a drizzle of melted white chocolate on top before chilling.
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Zesty Kick: Add 1 tsp orange zest to the filling for a cranberry-orange combo.
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Mini Pies: Use mini graham crusts to create single-serve desserts—great for parties.
Pairing Suggestions:
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Pair with hot spiced cider, peppermint hot chocolate, or coffee with cinnamon
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Serve alongside other no-bake holiday desserts for a stress-free dessert bar
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Add to your Friendsgiving or Christmas dinner spread for a fruity, refreshing finish
Storage Instructions:
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Refrigerate: Store covered in the fridge for up to 3–4 days
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Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month—thaw in the fridge overnight
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Best served chilled and fresh for optimal texture
Popular Questions:
Can I use frozen whipped topping straight from the freezer?
No, make sure it’s completely thawed before folding into the mixture for best texture.
Is canned cranberry sauce okay?
Yes! Whole berry cranberry sauce (not jellied) works perfectly in this recipe.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. This pie is best when made at least 4 hours in advance, making it a great make-ahead option.