Fresh Orange Pie with Whipped Cream Recipe
If you’ve been searching for a dessert that’s as vibrant and sunshine-bright as it is creamy and dreamy, look no further than Fresh Orange Pie with Whipped Cream. This dazzling pie is a slice of citrus heaven: think silky smooth orange custard baked into a flaky crust, then crowned with airy clouds of whipped cream and jewel-like orange wedges. Perfect for spring, summer, or any time you want a little burst of zest, it looks utterly showstopping but is fantastically easy to prepare. Trust me, every bite tastes like a happy celebration!

Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Fresh Orange Pie with Whipped Cream recipe is chosen to maximize citrusy flavor, creamy texture, and that signature luscious finish. Each component is simple but absolutely essential to bring out the best in this dessert, so let’s talk about why they matter!
- Fresh orange juice: The heart and soul of the filling; squeeze your own for brightest, just-picked flavor.
- Orange zest: Adds a floral, tangy depth and beautiful speckled color to every bite.
- Granulated sugar: Balances out the citrus tartness with just the right amount of sweetness.
- Cornstarch: This is your thickener, making the filling velvety and sliceable.
- Salt: A kitchen essential; just a pinch amplifies all the flavors and keeps the sweetness lively.
- Egg yolks: These create that custardy richness you want in every luscious mouthful.
- Whole milk: Results in a creamy filling without being too heavy; don’t swap for low-fat!
- Butter: Just a little for extra silkiness and a glossy finish.
- Pre-baked pie crust: Store-bought or homemade—either way, it should be fully baked and cooled so your filling sets perfectly.
- Heavy whipping cream: Freshly whipped cream beats anything from a can for both taste and texture.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream without any grittiness.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a hint of floral warmth to the fluffy cream topping.
- Fresh orange slices or wedges: For garnish — the crowning, juicy jewels on this sunburst dessert.
How to Make Fresh Orange Pie with Whipped Cream
Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients
Begin by whisking together the granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt right in your saucepan. This step ensures the dry ingredients are evenly dispersed and you won’t get any cornstarch lumps in your final filling. Think of it as the foundation for a silky, set custard!
Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients
Next, pour in the fresh orange juice, sprinkle in the fragrant orange zest, whisk in the egg yolks, and add the whole milk. Whisk everything together until there are no streaks remaining. At this point, your mixture will look pale and cheerful — the beginning of your bright, summery pie.
Step 3: Cook the Filling
Place the saucepan over medium heat and whisk constantly. Don’t walk away! After about 5 to 7 minutes, the mixture will transform and start to bubble and thicken—this is the magic when all the elements come together into a creamy, pudding-like texture. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of your spoon.
Step 4: Finish with Butter
Remove your pan from the heat and immediately stir in the butter. This small addition turns your filling luscious and shiny, making every slice feel truly special. Stir until fully incorporated and smooth.
Step 5: Fill and Cool the Pie
Carefully pour the warm orange filling into your prepared, pre-baked pie crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top, then let it cool at room temperature for half an hour. Once the initial heat is gone, transfer it to the refrigerator for at least 3 hours so it can set into sliceable perfection.
Step 6: Whip the Cream
While your pie chills, whip together the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. For best results, chill your mixing bowl and beaters first—this helps the cream whip up fluffier and stay stable longer.
Step 7: Decorate and Serve
Spoon or pipe the freshly whipped cream all around the edges of the set pie. Top with vibrant orange slices or wedges for a jewel-like, inviting finish. The moment you lay eyes on your Fresh Orange Pie with Whipped Cream, you’ll know you’re about to indulge in something extraordinary!
How to Serve Fresh Orange Pie with Whipped Cream
Garnishes
Make your Fresh Orange Pie with Whipped Cream look and taste extra special by garnishing with fanned orange slices or even a grating of additional fresh zest over the whipped cream. A sprinkle of finely chopped mint can also add a pop of green and an herby aroma that’s unexpectedly delightful. Little candied orange peels or edible flowers make it worthy of any festive table.
Side Dishes
This pie shines on its own, but if you want to make it part of a bigger dessert spread, serve it alongside fresh berries, a bowl of mixed fruit salad, or a handful of crisp butter cookies. Pair it with a citrusy Earl Grey tea, iced coffee, or a sparkling lemonade for an enchanting afternoon pick-me-up.
Creative Ways to Present
Instead of one large pie, try dividing the filling and whipped cream between mini tart shells for elegant individual desserts. Another fun idea: layer cubes of set pie with whipped cream in little glasses for gorgeous parfaits. Fresh Orange Pie with Whipped Cream is also irresistible when served in picnic-ready jars or cut into squares for dessert bars!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Fresh Orange Pie with Whipped Cream tightly covered in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days—though with its bright flavor, it rarely lasts that long! If you can, add a fresh layer of whipped cream right before serving for best texture and flavor.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze the pie (without the whipped cream topping) for up to 2 months. Simply wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before adding fresh whipped cream and garnishes.
Reheating
This is one of those desserts that’s truly best enjoyed chilled. If you accidentally left it out a tad too long, just return it to the fridge—there’s no need for reheating. The whipped cream and creamy filling are meant to be cool, smooth, and refreshing!
FAQs
Can I make Fresh Orange Pie with Whipped Cream ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, this pie is perfect for prepping a day in advance. The flavors deepen as it chills, and you only need to add the whipped cream topping right before serving for best results.
What oranges are best for the filling?
Navel and Cara Cara oranges are both excellent choices because they’re sweet, juicy, and easy to zest. Avoid using oranges that are overly tart or have a lot of seeds, as they can make extraction trickier and affect the flavor balance.
Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh?
While bottled juice works in a pinch, the pie truly shines with fresh-squeezed juice. Fresh Orange Pie with Whipped Cream owes its standout flavor and aroma to just-picked oranges. If you must use bottled, be sure it’s 100 percent juice without added sugar.
How do I keep the whipped cream stable?
Use cold cream and a cold bowl, and beat the mixture until stiff peaks form. If you need the whipped cream to stay firm longer (for a party, say), you can add a little extra powdered sugar or a teaspoon of instant pudding mix for extra stability.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use your favorite gluten-free pie crust, either homemade or store-bought. The filling and whipped cream are naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy Fresh Orange Pie with Whipped Cream without worry.
Final Thoughts
This Fresh Orange Pie with Whipped Cream promises a burst of sunshine in every bite, and I can’t wait for you to try it! Whether you’re whipping it up for a holiday, picnic, or just because you want dessert that sings with citrus flavor, you’re sure to fall in love. Gather your oranges and treat yourself—you deserve it!
PrintFresh Orange Pie with Whipped Cream Recipe
This Fresh Orange Pie with Whipped Cream is a delightful citrus dessert featuring a luscious filling made from fresh orange juice and zest, encased in a flaky pie crust, and crowned with billowy whipped cream and orange wedges.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Orange Filling:
- 1 cup (240ml) fresh orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (30g) cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fresh orange slices or wedges, for garnish
Instructions
- In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Add orange juice, orange zest, egg yolks, and milk. Whisk to combine.
- Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly until thick and bubbly (about 5–7 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted and smooth.
- Pour the orange filling into the pre-baked pie crust and smooth the top. Let cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate at least 3 hours or until set.
- Whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Pipe or spoon the whipped cream around the edges and garnish with fresh orange slices.
Notes
- Use Cara Cara or navel oranges for the best flavor.
- Add a dash of lemon juice for extra tang.
- Store in the fridge, covered, for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
Keywords: Orange Pie, Citrus Dessert, Whipped Cream, Pie Recipe, Fresh Orange