This Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie is a decadent dessert that combines rich, velvety chocolate, sweet and tangy cherries, and fluffy whipped cream in a buttery pie crust. It’s perfect for any occasion and easy to make with simple ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Decadent: The combination of chocolate, cherries, and whipped cream is a match made in dessert heaven.
- No-Bake Layers: Only the crust needs to be baked (or use a store-bought one), making it hassle-free.
- Perfect for Gatherings: This pie is a crowd-pleaser and makes for an impressive presentation.
- Customizable Garnishes: You can personalize the toppings to suit your style or occasion.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Pie Crust:
- 1 pre-baked pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
For the Chocolate Layer:
- 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cherry Layer:
- 1 ½ cups cherry pie filling
For the Whipped Cream Topping:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Garnish:
- Fresh cherries or maraschino cherries
- Extra chocolate chips
Directions
- Prepare the Chocolate Layer:
- In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to steam, but do not let it boil.
- Remove from heat, add the chocolate chips, and stir until the mixture is smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the chocolate mixture into the pre-baked pie crust and spread evenly.
- Refrigerate for 1 hour to allow the chocolate layer to set.
- Add the Cherry Layer:
- Once the chocolate layer is firm, spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the top.
- Whip the Cream:
- In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the cherry layer.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Decorate with fresh cherries or maraschino cherries and sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top.
- Refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours before serving to ensure all layers are firm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooling Time: 3 hours (1 hour for the chocolate layer, 2 hours for the assembled pie)
Variations
- Dark Chocolate: Substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
- Cherry Variations: Use homemade cherry compote instead of canned pie filling for a fresh touch.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pie crust to make this recipe suitable for gluten-intolerant guests.
- Alternate Toppings: Add chocolate shavings, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or even crushed nuts for extra texture.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep the pie refrigerated in an airtight container or covered with plastic wrap. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This pie can be frozen without the whipped cream topping for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before adding the whipped cream and garnishes.
- Reheating: This pie is best served chilled and does not require reheating.
FAQs
1. Can I use a graham cracker crust instead of a traditional pie crust?
Yes, a graham cracker crust works beautifully and adds a sweet, crunchy texture to the pie.
2. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to serve.
3. Can I use milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?
Yes, but the pie will be sweeter, so you may want to reduce the sugar in the whipped cream topping.
4. Can I use frozen cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Yes, thaw the cherries and cook them with sugar and cornstarch to create a filling consistency.
5. How do I prevent the chocolate layer from cracking?
Ensure the chocolate layer is smooth and fully set before adding the cherry layer, and avoid sudden temperature changes.
6. Can I use store-bought whipped cream instead of homemade?
Yes, but homemade whipped cream has a fresher taste and better texture for piping.
7. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Use dairy-free chocolate, coconut cream for the chocolate layer, and a non-dairy whipped topping.
8. Can I add liqueur to the chocolate layer?
Yes, a tablespoon of cherry liqueur or amaretto adds a nice kick to the chocolate layer.
9. Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and use a larger pie dish or make two pies.
10. How can I ensure clean slices when serving?
Chill the pie thoroughly, use a sharp knife, and wipe the blade clean between cuts.
Conclusion
Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie is an irresistible dessert that brings together the rich flavors of chocolate, the brightness of cherries, and the creaminess of whipped topping. It’s easy to make, visually stunning, and guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering, birthday, or just because, this pie is sure to be a hit with everyone. Give it a try and let this indulgent treat become a staple in your recipe collection!
Print
Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie
- Prep Time: Use a graham cracker crust or Oreo crust for a different texture and flavor. For a richer chocolate flavor, substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips. Homemade cherry compote can replace canned cherry pie filling for a fresher taste.
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake Layers
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie combines rich, velvety chocolate, tangy cherry filling, and fluffy whipped cream in a buttery pie crust for the ultimate dessert experience. Perfect for gatherings or special occasions, this pie is easy to prepare, requires no-bake layers, and is customizable with your favorite garnishes like fresh cherries or chocolate shavings.
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust:
- 1 pre-baked pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
For the Chocolate Layer:
- 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cherry Layer:
- 1 ½ cups cherry pie filling
For the Whipped Cream Topping:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Garnish:
- Fresh cherries or maraschino cherries
- Extra chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare the Chocolate Layer:
- Heat heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until steaming but not boiling.
- Remove from heat, add chocolate chips, and stir until smooth. Mix in vanilla extract.
- Pour chocolate mixture into the pre-baked pie crust and spread evenly. Refrigerate for 1 hour to set.
- Add the Cherry Layer:
- Once the chocolate layer is firm, evenly spread the cherry pie filling over the top.
- Whip the Cream:
- In a chilled mixing bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the cherry layer.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Decorate with fresh or maraschino cherries and sprinkle with extra chocolate chips.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the layers to firm.
Notes
- Use a graham cracker crust or Oreo crust for a different texture and flavor.
- For a richer chocolate flavor, substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips.
- Homemade cherry compote can replace canned cherry pie filling for a fresher taste.
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