If you are searching for a luscious dessert that combines the rich depth of chocolate with the vibrant sweetness of cherries, this Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine velvety chocolate pudding layered over juicy cherry filling, all nestled within a crisp, buttery pie crust and topped with fluffy whipped cream and chocolate chips. Every bite promises a delightful balance of creamy textures and bold flavors, making it perfect for any occasion, from casual nights to festive celebrations.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines by using straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create a complex flavor profile. Each component plays a crucial role: the pie crust provides a crisp foundation, cherry pie filling adds tart sweetness, chocolate pudding brings indulgent creaminess, and whipped cream softens everything with its airy lightness.
- Pre-baked 9-inch pie crust: A ready crust speeds up preparation while providing a buttery, flaky base that’s perfectly firm.
- Cherry pie filling (21 oz): Choose your favorite brand or homemade topping to add that juicy burst of classic cherry flavor.
- Chocolate pudding mix (3.9 oz): This box mix transforms cold milk into a rich chocolate layer that melts delightfully in your mouth.
- Cold milk (2 cups): Essential for properly mixing the pudding and achieving that creamy, smooth texture.
- Whipped cream (1 ½ cups): Use fresh or store-bought for a fluffy, light topping that contrasts beautifully with the dense pudding.
- Chocolate chips (½ cup): Semi-sweet or dark chips add texture and an extra hit of chocolate in every bite.
- Fresh cherries (optional): A decorative touch that enhances both presentation and flavor with natural freshness.
How to Make Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
Make sure your pre-baked pie crust is completely cooled before starting. This step is key to avoid sogginess and ensures the crust stays crisp under all those creamy layers. A sturdy crust acts as the perfect base to hold the luscious fillings without falling apart.
Step 2: Add the Cherry Layer
Spread the cherry pie filling evenly across the bottom of your pie crust. The sweet and tart cherries create a vibrant contrast against the chocolate, giving each slice a fruity pop that complements the rich ingredients above.
Step 3: Prepare and Add the Chocolate Pudding
Mix the chocolate pudding according to the package instructions using cold milk. Allow the pudding to thicken slightly—this ensures it sets nicely in the pie. Carefully spread this creamy chocolate layer over the cherry filling, creating a smooth, velvety blanket that is utterly indulgent.
Step 4: Top with Whipped Cream
Gently dollop or spread the whipped cream over the chocolate pudding layer. Its airy texture wonderfully balances the richness below, making every mouthful a delightful mix of lightness and decadence.
Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips and Cherries
Sprinkle chocolate chips evenly atop the whipped cream for delightful bursts of chocolate crunch. If you have fresh cherries on hand, place a few strategically around the top—they not only boost flavor but also brighten the pie’s appearance beautifully.
Step 6: Chill Before Serving
Pop your pie into the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This chilling time allows the layers to set firmly, making slicing neat and ensuring that each bite holds the perfect harmony of textures and tastes.
How to Serve Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few more fresh cherries or a dusting of cocoa powder right before serving can elevate the presentation even further. Chocolate shavings or a drizzle of cherry syrup can also make this pie look extra special and inviting.
Side Dishes
Serve this pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of extra whipped cream for a truly indulgent dessert experience. Fresh berries or a light fruit salad on the side can provide refreshing contrast to the pie’s richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, consider serving the pie in individual glass cups layered with pie filling, pudding, and whipped cream for a fancy twist. Or, place slices on dessert plates with a drizzle of chocolate or cherry sauce artistically on the side for a restaurant-worthy look.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover any leftover pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, maintaining its texture and flavor beautifully.
Freezing
This pie can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze before adding whipped cream to preserve its best texture. Wrap the pie securely in foil and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before adding fresh whipped cream and serving.
Reheating
This pie is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating is not recommended. If you prefer a slightly softer texture, allow it to come to room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cherry pie filling for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade cherry pie filling adds a personal touch and can make the flavors even more vibrant and fresh in this Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie Recipe.
Is it possible to make this pie dairy-free?
You can substitute dairy milk with plant-based alternatives and choose dairy-free whipped topping to adapt this recipe for dairy-free diets.
Can I replace the chocolate pudding mix with homemade pudding?
Yes, making homemade chocolate pudding from scratch works wonderfully and allows you to control the sweetness and richness of the filling.
How long should I chill the pie before serving?
Chilling for at least 2 hours is ideal to let all the layers set and meld together for the perfect texture and flavor in the Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie Recipe.
What other toppings can I use besides chocolate chips and cherries?
Try toasted nuts, shaved white chocolate, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for a unique twist that complements the pie’s flavors beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie Recipe is one of those special desserts that never fails to impress. Its harmonious layers of flavor and texture make it a true crowd-pleaser, whether for a family dinner or a festive celebration. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try it out; once you do, it might just become your go-to sweet treat for years to come!
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Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This luscious Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie combines a crisp pre-baked pie crust layered with sweet cherry pie filling, smooth chocolate pudding, and fluffy whipped cream. Topped with semi-sweet chocolate chips and optional fresh cherries, this no-bake dessert is perfect for any occasion, offering a delightful balance of fruity and creamy flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Crust & Filling
- 1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling (or homemade)
Chocolate Pudding Layer
- 1 box (3.9 oz) chocolate pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk (for pudding mix)
Topping
- 1 ½ cups whipped cream (homemade or store-bought)
- ½ cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
- Fresh cherries for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Crust: Ensure the pre-baked 9-inch pie crust is fully cooled before assembly to maintain its crisp texture and prevent sogginess.
- Layer Cherry Filling: Evenly spread the entire can of cherry pie filling across the bottom of the pie crust, creating a fruity base layer.
- Make Chocolate Pudding: In a mixing bowl, combine the chocolate pudding mix with 2 cups of cold milk. Whisk thoroughly according to the package instructions until the pudding thickens slightly.
- Spread Pudding Layer: Carefully spread the thickened chocolate pudding over the cherry layer, ensuring an even, smooth surface.
- Add Whipped Cream: Gently spread 1 ½ cups of whipped cream over the chocolate pudding layer, smoothing it out for a fluffy, creamy topping.
- Garnish: Sprinkle ½ cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips over the whipped cream. Optionally, add fresh cherries on top for enhanced flavor and an attractive presentation.
- Chill: Refrigerate the assembled pie for at least 2 hours to allow all layers to set properly and flavors to meld.
- Serve: Slice and serve the pie chilled, enjoying the delicious combination of cherry, chocolate, and cream.
Notes
- Make sure the pie crust is fully cooled to prevent melting the pudding and whipped cream layers.
- You can make homemade cherry pie filling if preferred for a fresher taste.
- For a richer pudding layer, use whole milk instead of low-fat milk.
- Whipped cream can be homemade using heavy cream or store-bought for convenience.
- Fresh cherries not only add flavor but also enhance the pie’s presentation.
- This pie should be stored in the refrigerator and is best consumed within 2 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
