When holiday cheer is in the air, the kitchen transforms into a haven of warmth and joy. Picture this: the scent of freshly zested oranges mingling with jellied cranberry sauce as you whip up delightful treats that will bring smiles to family and friends. That’s the magic of my Cranberry Orange Christmas Tree Pies!

These festive little pastries are not just a feast for the eyes; they’re a deliciously simple way to bring the flavors of the season to your table. With store-bought pie crust saving you precious time, this recipe combines the tartness of cranberry with the bright zing of orange, creating an irresistible filling that evokes the spirit of Christmas.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or just want to brighten up a weeknight with some homemade goodness, these charming tree-shaped pies are bound to become a beloved tradition. The best part? They’re easy enough for anyone to make, satisfying cravings without any fuss. Let’s dive into this joyful recipe and create sweet memories together this holiday season!

Why are Cranberry Orange Christmas Tree Pies special?

Irresistible flavors come together in this unique treat, making every bite a joy. Festive and fun, the tree shape adds a delightful touch to your holiday table. Quick preparation with store-bought pie crust means more time spent with loved ones. Bright citrus notes from the oranges enhance the tart cranberry filling, creating a refreshing twist. Crowd-pleasing and easy to customize, these pies are perfect for gatherings or simply savoring at home. Don’t forget to check out my guide on easy holiday desserts for more inspiration!

Cranberry Orange Christmas Tree Pies Ingredients

• Get ready to spread holiday joy with these delicious treats!

3 boxes store-bought pie crust – saves time, perfectly flaky
1 can jellied cranberry sauce (14 ounces) – essential for that tart flavor
¼ cup brown sugar – adds a touch of sweetness
2 oranges (zested) – for a bright, zesty flavor boost
2 eggs – for sealing the pastry and achieving a golden finish
24-ounce brick vanilla almond bark – smooth chocolatey coating
⅓ cup Christmas sprinkles – brings festive cheer to your pies

Enjoy making your own Cranberry Orange Christmas Tree Pies this holiday season!

How to Make Cranberry Orange Christmas Tree Pies

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. While it warms, zest the oranges to release their fragrant oils, setting the stage for delightful flavors.
Roll out one of the pie crusts on your parchment-lined tray. Use a Christmas tree cookie cutter to cut out as many trees as you can, then carefully set these festive shapes aside. Repeat with the remaining pie crust.
Place half of the tree cutouts on your baking sheet. In a medium bowl, combine the jellied cranberry sauce and brown sugar, mixing well. Spoon about two tablespoons of this sweet-tart mixture onto each tree’s center.
Sprinkle the zested orange over the cranberry sauce, infusing the pies with vibrant citrus notes. Whisk the eggs in a small bowl and brush some of the mixture along the edges of each tree. Place a bare tree on top and press down firmly to seal. Make three slits in the top: one at the tip, one in the middle, and another near the bottom.
Brush the tops of the trees with the remaining egg wash, then bake in your preheated oven for 20-23 minutes or until they are golden brown. Once done, let them cool completely on a wire rack.
Melt the vanilla almond bark in a microwave-safe bowl until smooth. Pour it into a zip-lock bag, snip off one corner, and drizzle the melted chocolate over each tree. Quickly sprinkle with festive Christmas sprinkles before the chocolate sets.
Let the chocolate harden at room temperature before serving your delightful Cranberry Orange Christmas Tree Pies to family and friends!

Optional: Serve with whipped cream for an extra festive touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Orange Christmas Tree Pies

Room Temperature: Store completely cooled pies in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.

Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate your Cranberry Orange Christmas Tree Pies in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave, uncovered, for about 15-20 seconds or in an oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.

Freezer: To freeze, place the cooled pies in a single layer on a baking sheet; freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy frozen pies, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned above to restore their delicious crispy texture.

Cranberry Orange Variations

Feel free to get creative and tailor these festive treats to suit your taste and dietary needs!

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pie crusts to make these pies accessible for everyone, while still enjoying the delightful flavors.
Vegan: Replace the eggs with a flaxseed mixture and opt for dairy-free chocolate for a plant-based delight that everyone can enjoy.
Spiced Up: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cranberry mixture for a warm, aromatic twist that will evoke cozy holiday vibes.
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate finely chopped walnuts or pecans into the cranberry filling for a satisfying crunch and added richness.
Citrusy Burst: Swap the orange zest for lemon or lime zest to explore new levels of brightness that complement the cranberry beautifully.
Cheesecake Filling: Mix cream cheese with the cranberry sauce for a creamy, decadent filling that’s sure to impress holiday guests.
Savory Twist: Add a pinch of salt and fresh thyme to the cranberry mixture for a unique savoriness that balances the sweetness perfectly.
Chocolate Drizzle Delight: Instead of simple sprinkles, use colored melting chocolate for an extra splash of creativity and a sweeter finish on top.

Embrace the joy of baking and make these holiday pies your own with these delightful variations!

What to Serve with Cranberry Orange Christmas Tree Pies?

Pairing these delightful holiday treats with complementary sides and drinks will elevate your festive spread to new heights.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop brings creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the tart cranberry filling, making every bite a balance of textures.
Hot Cocoa Bar: Rich, warm cocoa with marshmallows creates a cozy atmosphere, inviting everyone to indulge in sweet treats alongside your pies.
Festive Spinach Salad: The fresh greens and tangy vinaigrette provide a refreshing counterpoint to the sweetness of the pies, ensuring a balanced meal.
Gingerbread Cookies: More holiday cheer! The spices in gingerbread pair perfectly with cranberry, adding a nostalgic touch to your dessert table.
Sparkling Apple Cider: This bubbly drink adds a festive flair, harmonizing with the flavors of orange and cranberry while providing a lovely presentation.
Cheese Platter: A selection of creamy brie and tangy goat cheese enhances the flavors of your pies, adding sophistication and variety to your gathering.
Sugary Cookies: Soft sugar cookies topped with frosting give a nostalgic flavor experience that pairs well with the glistening pies.
Mulling Spices Tea: Warm spiced tea or cider brings comforting winter vibes, perfectly complementing your delicious cranberry-filled creations.
Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: Crunchy and sweet, these snacks add the perfect touch of saltiness to balance the sweetness of your Cranberry Orange Christmas Tree Pies.

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Cranberry Orange Christmas Tree Pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the tree crust cutouts and the cranberry filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cut out the trees, assemble them, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain quality and prevent any sogginess, keep the filling separate until ready to bake. When you’re ready to serve, simply fill the tree cutouts and follow the baking instructions, brushing with egg and seasoning right before placing them in the oven. This way, you’ll enjoy warm, festive treats that taste as delicious as if they were just made!

Expert Tips for Cranberry Orange Christmas Tree Pies

Perfect Crust: Make sure your store-bought pie crust is chilled before rolling out; room temperature dough can become too sticky and hard to work with.
Seal Properly: When pressing the edges of the pies, ensure they are fully sealed to prevent any leaks during baking. A fork can be used to crimp edges for added security.
Don’t Overfill: While the cranberry mixture is delicious, be careful not to add too much. About two tablespoons in the center keeps the filling contained.
Egg Wash Glaze: Brush a generous amount of egg wash over the tops for a beautifully golden finish. This gives your Cranberry Orange Christmas Tree Pies that festive shimmer.
Sprinkle Timing: Add the Christmas sprinkles right after drizzling the melted chocolate to make sure they stick; waiting too long can cause the chocolate to harden.
Cooling Time: Allow the pies to cool completely on a wire rack before serving; this ensures crispy crusts and prevents hot filling from splattering.

Cranberry Orange Christmas Tree Pies Recipe FAQs

What type of cranberries should I use?
Absolutely! For this recipe, a can of jellied cranberry sauce offers the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. If you’d like a homemade touch, you can make your own cranberry sauce using fresh cranberries, sugar, and water—just cook until thickened!

How should I store leftovers?
You can store completely cooled Cranberry Orange Christmas Tree Pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, put them in the refrigerator, where they will last for up to 5 days. Be sure to reheat them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in an oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to restore their warmth and texture.

Can I freeze these pies?
Yes, definitely! To freeze your Cranberry Orange Christmas Tree Pies, first make sure they are completely cooled. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and enjoy them within 3 months. When you’re ready to eat them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as described.

What if the pies leak during baking?
Very! If any of your pies leak filling while baking, it’s often due to overfilling. To avoid this, stick to the recommended two tablespoons of filling per pie. If they still leak, try using a fork to crimp the edges more securely to maintain a better seal.

Are these pies suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! The recipe is vegetarian as it mainly involves plant-based ingredients. However, it does contain eggs. If you need a vegan alternative, consider using a plant-based egg substitute, like flaxseed meal mixed with water, or applesauce for sealing the pastries. Enjoy making these delightful treats!

What if I have nut allergies?
It’s a good idea to be cautious! The vanilla almond bark used for drizzling does contain tree nuts. For nut-free versions, you can substitute it with traditional chocolate chips or a different type of chocolate labeled as nut-free. Enjoy your festive baking and make this holiday season special!