This luscious Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie is a true celebration of flavors and textures, seamlessly blending silky cream cheese filling with vibrant cherry sweetness and rich chocolate decadence. It’s a no-bake delight that comes together in just 20 minutes of active prep time, perfect for busy days when you crave something special without turning on the oven. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or wrapping up a hearty meal with a refreshing dessert, this pie is bound to steal the show. With a 9-inch pre-baked crust providing a sturdy and buttery base, every slice delivers that satisfying crunch before you dive into the soft, pillowy layers above.
As a beginner-friendly recipe with zero cooking time and a restful chill period of two hours, you’ll find yourself achieving dessert perfection without breaking a sweat. Clocking in at around 350 calories per slice, it’s a treat that feels indulgent yet approachable, especially when shared among friends and family. The combination of heavy cream whipped to firm peaks, smooth cream cheese lightly sweetened with powdered sugar, and the burst of cherry pie filling creates a harmonious balance. Finally, a drizzle of melted chocolate and a scattering of fresh cherries elevate each forkful into a multi-sensory experience that’s equal parts elegant and playful.
When you line up your ingredients for this Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie, you’ll notice how each component plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the supportive crispness of the crust to the lusciousness of the whipped cream blend, every item contributes to the final masterpiece. Gather your ingredients, and let’s break down what makes each one special.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CHOCOLATE CHERRY CREAM PIE
Before you dive into the mixing and layering, it’s helpful to appreciate what each ingredient brings to this pie. These essentials work in concert to create that creamy, fruity, and chocolaty fanfare that dances on your palate.
- Pre-baked Pie Crust
A 9-inch foundation that offers a buttery, flaky texture. It’s the sturdy support that holds all the layers together, giving you a delightful crunch with every bite.
- Heavy Cream
Whipped into firm peaks, it provides the airiness and volume needed for a light mouthfeel. This creates a dreamy contrast to the denser cream cheese layer.
- Granulated Sugar
Added to the heavy cream to stabilize the peaks and introduce a touch of sweetness. It helps the whipped cream maintain structure without overpowering the other flavors.
- Vanilla Extract
A fragrant accent that lifts the cream mixture. Just a touch infuses warmth and depth, enhancing the overall profile without stealing the spotlight.
- Cream Cheese
The star of the creamy filling, softened to a smooth consistency. Its slight tang balances the sweetness and gives the pie body and richness.
- Powdered Sugar
Whisked into the cream cheese for a velvety, lump-free sweetness. It melds effortlessly, contributing to a pillowy texture.
- Cherry Pie Filling
A glossy layer of sweet cherries in syrup. This fruit component adds brightness and a pop of color, creating a lovely contrast against the pale cream.
- Chocolate Chips
Melted into a silky drizzle, they introduce intense cocoa notes. The dark ribbons tie the cherry and cream elements together in perfect harmony.
- Butter
Combined with the chocolate chips to ensure a smooth, glossy drizzle. It enriches the chocolate, giving it a satiny finish.
- Fresh Cherries
Optional garnishes that add a burst of freshness and visual appeal. They complete the look and offer a juicy bite on top of the indulgent layers.
HOW TO MAKE CHOCOLATE CHERRY CREAM PIE
Now that your ingredients are prepped and ready, let’s walk through the process of transforming them into a show-stopping dessert. This no-bake recipe is broken down into simple, beginner-friendly steps that anyone can follow.
1. Place the pre-baked pie crust on a serving plate and set aside. Make sure the crust is completely cooled so it remains crisp and ready to cradle your luscious filling.
2. In a medium mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with the granulated sugar and vanilla extract until firm peaks form. Use an electric mixer on medium speed, scraping down the sides as needed to achieve a stable, airy texture.
3. In another bowl, beat the cream cheese with powdered sugar until completely smooth and creamy. Pause to scrape down the sides so there are no lumps, ensuring a silky base for the whipped cream.
4. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well incorporated. Use a rubber spatula and a light, sweeping motion to retain the whipped cream’s volume and airy structure.
5. Spread the cream cheese and whipped cream mixture evenly into the pie crust. Smooth the top with the back of a spoon or an offset spatula for a clean, professional look.
6. Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the cream layer. Distribute the cherries and syrup so every slice gets that sweet, jammy burst of fruit.
7. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and butter together in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. Keep a close eye to avoid scorching, stirring thoroughly after each interval.
8. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the cherry layer in a decorative pattern. You can zigzag across the top or create concentric circles for a fancy finish.
9. Chill the pie in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until the filling is fully set. This resting period allows the layers to firm up and the flavors to meld beautifully.
10. Before serving, garnish with fresh cherries if desired. This final touch adds a pop of color and a hint of fresh fruit flavor.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CHOCOLATE CHERRY CREAM PIE
Once your pie has chilled and set, it’s time to think about presentation and pairing. A well-served dessert not only tastes fantastic but also adds a touch of flair and thoughtfulness to your gathering. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet afternoon treat or sharing this beauty at a festive get-together, these serving ideas will ensure every slice shines on the table.
- Piped Whipped Cream Border
Transfer extra whipped cream into a piping bag fitted with a star tip. Pipe elegant rosettes around the edge of the pie for an upscale look that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
- Fresh Fruit Accents
Besides fresh cherries, consider adding a few halved raspberries or blackberries around each slice. The vibrant hues and tangy notes will contrast beautifully with the rich cream and chocolate.
- Dessert Plate Styling
Use a hot, clean knife to slice the pie neatly. Place each slice on a white or pastel plate, drizzle a little extra cherry syrup around the base, and sprinkle a few chocolate shavings for a restaurant-worthy presentation.
- Beverage Pairings
Serve with a chilled glass of sparkling rosé, a bold cup of espresso, or a smooth dessert wine. These pairings complement the sweetness and cut through the richness, balancing the overall experience.
HOW TO STORE CHOCOLATE CHERRY CREAM PIE
Storing this pie correctly is key to preserving its creamy texture and fresh cherry flavor. Since it’s a no-bake dessert with delicate layers, you’ll want to protect it from absorbing other fridge odors and prevent condensation issues. With the right techniques, you can keep your pie as delightful on day two as it is on day one.
- Refrigeration in an Airtight Container
Place the pie in a cake keeper or cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Store in the coldest part of the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain a firm texture without drying out.
- Individual Slice Freezing
For longer storage, cut the pie into slices and wrap each piece in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
- Preventing Condensation
Always chill the pie uncovered for 10 minutes before wrapping. This allows surface moisture to dissipate, preventing water droplets that can make the crust soggy.
- Avoiding Odor Transfer
Keep the pie away from strong-smelling foods like onions or cheeses. Store it in a sealed container or in the back of the fridge to ensure its flavors stay pure and vibrant.
CONCLUSION
Our journey through the world of Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie has been nothing short of delightful. We started by exploring how a simple, no-bake approach can yield a multi-layered dessert that’s both elegant and easy enough for beginners. From the crisp, buttery pre-baked crust to the airy whipped cream and silky cream cheese layers, each component harmonizes with the bright cherry pie filling and drizzled chocolate, creating a symphony of textures and tastes. You’ve learned how to whip, fold, and drizzle like a pro, as well as insider tips for serving that pie slices with flair—be it a swirl of piped cream or a scattering of fresh fruit accents.
In this article, we’ve covered every step and every ingredient in vivid detail, so you have all the know-how at your fingertips. Don’t forget that this recipe is perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or an indulgent weekend treat. With just 20 minutes of active prep time and a restful chill period, you can impress guests or delight your own sweet tooth without spending hours in the kitchen. Feel free to print this article and save it for later—whether you’re bookmarking it for a future celebration or sharing it with fellow home cooks, it’s ready to be your go-to guide. You’ll also find a handy FAQ section below to answer any lingering questions about substitutions, storage, or presentation.
If you give this Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie a whirl, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Leave your comments, questions, or feedback below—let me know if you tried that almond extract twist, how you styled your serving plates, or any little hacks you discovered along the way. Your experiences not only help me refine future recipes but also inspire other readers to pick up their mixing bowls and create something truly memorable. Happy baking (or, in this case, happily assembling!), and here’s to countless delicious moments shared over a slice of creamy, fruity, chocolaty perfection.
Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie
Description
This luscious Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie features a velvety cream cheese filling topped with cherry pie filling and chocolate drizzle, making it a feast for the senses.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Place the pre-baked pie crust on a serving plate and set aside.
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In a medium mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with the granulated sugar and vanilla extract until firm peaks form. Set aside.
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In another bowl, beat the cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
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Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well incorporated.
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Spread the cream cheese and whipped cream mixture evenly into the pie crust.
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Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the cream layer.
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In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and butter together in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
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Drizzle the melted chocolate over the cherry layer.
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Chill the pie in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until set.
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Before serving, garnish with fresh cherries if desired.
Note
- You can use a store-bought pie crust to save time, but a homemade crust can add a personal touch.
- For a more intense cherry flavor, feel free to add a few drops of almond extract to the cream cheese mixture.
- If you prefer a sweeter pie, add more powdered sugar to the cream filling to taste.
- For an elevated presentation, pipe extra whipped cream around the edge of the pie before serving.
- This pie is perfect for summer gatherings or as a refreshing dessert after a hearty meal.
