There’s something magical about dessert that brings us all together, isn’t there? The rich, velvety layers of a Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie can turn an ordinary evening into a delightful celebration. Whether you’re winding down after a long day or hosting friends for a weekend gathering, this pie is your secret weapon. It’s not just a treat; it’s a way to show you care. With its luscious chocolate and tart cherries, this recipe is perfect for impressing loved ones or simply indulging yourself. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll understand why this pie is a crowd favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie
This Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie is a dessert lover’s dream come true! It’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. The combination of rich chocolate and sweet-tart cherries creates a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds dancing. Plus, it’s a no-bake delight, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of friends and family!
Ingredients for Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating your Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie masterpiece. Here’s what you’ll need:
Chocolate cookie crumbs: These form the base of your pie, providing a rich, chocolatey flavor. You can use store-bought or crush your favorite chocolate cookies at home.
Unsalted butter: This helps bind the cookie crumbs together, creating a sturdy crust. Unsalted is best to control the overall saltiness of the pie.
Fresh or frozen cherries: The star of the show! Cherries add a burst of tartness that perfectly complements the chocolate. If using frozen, make sure they’re pitted and thawed.
Granulated sugar: This sweetens the cherry filling and balances the flavors. You’ll use it in two parts for different components of the pie.
Cornstarch: A thickening agent for the cherry filling, ensuring it holds together beautifully when sliced.
Vanilla extract: A classic flavor enhancer that adds depth to both the cherry filling and cream cheese mixture.
Heavy whipping cream: This is whipped to create a light and airy texture in the cream cheese layer, making it decadently creamy.
Cream cheese: The base for your creamy filling, it adds richness and a slight tang that balances the sweetness.
Powdered sugar: This sweetens the cream cheese mixture without the graininess of granulated sugar, giving it a smooth finish.
Almond extract: A little goes a long way! It adds a subtle nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate and cherries.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips: These are melted and drizzled on top, adding a luxurious finish to your pie.
For those looking to switch things up, consider adding a splash of cherry liqueur to the filling for an adult twist. If you prefer a different texture, a graham cracker crust can be a delightful alternative. Exact measurements for each ingredient can be found at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie
Creating your Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie is a delightful journey. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a stunning dessert that’s sure to impress!
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter. Mix until everything is well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and let it cool completely. This crust is the foundation of your pie, so make sure it’s nice and sturdy!
Step 2: Cook the Cherry Filling
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the pitted cherries, ½ cup of granulated sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. Cook while stirring occasionally until the mixture starts to bubble and thicken, about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. This cherry filling is where the magic happens, bringing a burst of flavor to your pie!
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until it’s smooth. Gradually add the remaining ½ cup of granulated sugar and powdered sugar, mixing until everything is well combined. Add the almond extract and mix until smooth. This creamy layer is what makes the pie so indulgent!
Step 4: Whip the Cream
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This step is crucial for achieving that light, airy texture in your pie. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream; you want to keep that fluffiness!
Step 5: Assemble the Pie
Spread half of the cream cheese mixture into the cooled chocolate crust. Layer the cherry mixture on top, then add the remaining cream cheese mixture. Smooth the top with a spatula. This layering creates a beautiful contrast of colors and flavors that will wow your guests!
Step 6: Drizzle with Chocolate
Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the top of the pie. This final touch adds a luxurious finish that’s hard to resist!
Step 7: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours or until set. This chilling time allows all the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, slice it up and enjoy the delightful combination of chocolate and cherries. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Tips for Success
Use room temperature cream cheese for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
Don’t skip the chilling time; it’s essential for the pie to set properly.
For a more intense cherry flavor, consider using fresh cherries when in season.
Keep an eye on the chocolate while melting to prevent burning.
Feel free to experiment with different cookie crumbs for the crust!
Equipment Needed
9-inch pie pan: A standard pie dish works best, but a tart pan can add a fancy touch.
Medium saucepan: Any sturdy pot will do for cooking the cherry filling.
Electric mixer: A hand mixer is perfect, but a whisk can work if you’re feeling adventurous.
Mixing bowls: Have a couple of different sizes on hand for mixing and folding.
Spatula: A rubber spatula is great for spreading and smoothing the cream cheese mixture.
Variations
Cherry Liqueur Twist: Add a tablespoon of cherry liqueur to the cherry filling for an adult kick that enhances the flavor.
Graham Cracker Crust: Swap the chocolate cookie crust for a graham cracker crust for a different texture and a hint of cinnamon.
Vegan Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream in place of heavy whipping cream for a delicious vegan version.
Nutty Flavor: Incorporate crushed nuts, like almonds or walnuts, into the crust for added crunch and flavor.
Fruit Medley: Mix in other berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, with the cherries for a colorful and fruity twist.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination.
Serve with a dollop of whipped cream on top for added creaminess.
A drizzle of chocolate sauce can elevate the presentation and flavor.
Enjoy with a cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine for a delightful finish.
Garnish with fresh cherries or chocolate shavings for an elegant touch.
FAQs about Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie
Curious about this delightful dessert? Here are some frequently asked questions that might help you on your Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie journey!
Can I use frozen cherries for this pie?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries work perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure they’re pitted and thawed before using them in the filling. They’ll still provide that delicious tartness!
How long can I store the Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie?
This pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just cover it with plastic wrap to keep it fresh. However, I doubt it will last that long once your friends and family get a taste!
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, making it a day in advance is a great idea. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, and it gives you one less thing to worry about on the day of your gathering.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
Is this pie suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie is vegetarian-friendly! It contains no meat or fish products, making it a delightful dessert for those following a vegetarian diet.
Final Thoughts
Creating a Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie is more than just baking; it’s about crafting memories. Each layer tells a story, from the rich chocolate crust to the vibrant cherry filling. This pie is a celebration of flavors that brings joy to any gathering. Whether you’re sharing it with family or savoring a slice alone, the experience is pure bliss. The smiles and compliments you’ll receive are just the cherry on top! So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and let this delightful dessert become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire. You won’t regret it!
A delicious and creamy Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and cherries, perfect for dessert lovers.
Ingredients
Scale
1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
1 cup granulated sugar, divided
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
½ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon almond extract
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a medium bowl, combine chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter. Mix until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool completely.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cherries, ½ cup granulated sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture starts to bubble and thicken, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add the remaining ½ cup granulated sugar and powdered sugar, mixing until well combined. Add the almond extract and mix until smooth.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated.
Spread half of the cream cheese mixture into the cooled chocolate crust. Layer the cherry mixture on top, then add the remaining cream cheese mixture. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the top of the pie.
Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours or until set. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of cherry liqueur to the cherry mixture.
Substitute the chocolate cookie crust with a graham cracker crust for a different texture and taste.
