Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie

Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie is a delightful dessert that combines rich chocolate flavors with the fruity sweetness of cherry filling, all enveloped in a creamy texture that melts in your mouth. This indulgent pie is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to celebrations, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth. The beautiful contrast of flavors and textures makes it a comforting yet elegant choice that will definitely impress your guests. Plus, it’s super easy to make with a simple, step-by-step recipe that even beginner bakers can follow effortlessly!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie is a dream come true for dessert lovers. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. With minimal ingredients and no baking required, you can whip up this stunning treat in no time. It’s a great crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and nostalgic or looking to impress at your next gathering, this pie ticks all the boxes!

Ingredients

1 pre-made chocolate pie crust: The crust is crispy and chocolatey, providing the perfect base with a delightful crunch.
1 cup canned cherry pie filling: Juicy and sweet cherries bring a burst of flavor and color to the dish.
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese (softened): Creamy and velvety, the cream cheese adds a rich layer that complements the chocolate beautifully.
1/2 cup powdered sugar: Sweet and fine, it sweetens the cream cheese, ensuring a smooth, luscious filling.
1 cup heavy whipping cream: Light and airy, the whipped cream adds a fluffy texture that makes every bite delightful.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Aromatic and warm, vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile.
1 package (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix: Rich and indulgent, chocolate pudding provides a decadent layer to the pie.
1 3/4 cups cold milk: Essential for preparing the pudding and contributing to the pie’s smooth consistency.
1/2 cup chocolate chips: Melty and sweet, these chips add extra chocolatey goodness.
Whipped cream for topping: A light cloud of whipped cream makes the pie even more irresistible.
Fresh cherries for garnish: These add a pop of color and freshness that makes the dessert visually stunning.

Step-by-Step Directions

Prepare the Base: Start by beating the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together in a medium mixing bowl until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Set this aside for later use.
Make the Pudding: In a separate mixing bowl, combine the instant chocolate pudding mix with 1 3/4 cups of cold milk. Whisk the mixture together for about 2 minutes until it thickens beautifully.
Whip the Cream: In another bowl, combine the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Whip this mixture until stiff peaks form, which will create a light and airy texture.
Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until everything is smoothly blended and velvety.
Layer the Pie: Pour the chocolate pudding mixture into the pre-made chocolate pie crust, spreading it evenly. Follow this layer by adding the cream cheese and whipped cream mixture over the pudding layer.
Top with Cherries: Spoon the cherry pie filling on top of the pie, carefully spreading it evenly to combine with the other layers.
Garnish: Finish off your pie by sprinkling chocolate chips on top and dolloping whipped cream around the edges. Add fresh cherries for a beautiful presentation.
Chill: Refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to set and meld together beautifully.
Serve and Enjoy: Slice the pie, serve it to your guests, and indulge in the rich, creamy, and fruity treat you’ve created!

Tips & Tricks

Chill Your Bowl: For the best results when whipping the cream, chill your mixing bowl and beaters beforehand; this helps achieve stiff peaks faster.
Variations: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a delightful contrast to the sweetness or even incorporate crushed Oreo cookies into the pie crust for a different texture.
Temperature Matters: Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature to ensure a smooth mixture without any lumps.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie is best served chilled. It pairs wonderfully with a strong cup of coffee or a refreshing cup of tea. You can also serve it alongside vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence. It’s ideal for birthday parties, holidays, or simply when you feel like treating yourself or your loved ones.

Nutritional Information

This Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie serves approximately 8 people. Each slice contains around 300 calories, along with essential nutrients such as fats, carbohydrates, and proteins. While it’s a delightful treat, moderation is key, so enjoy it as a part of a balanced diet!

Storing Tips & Variations

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the pie for up to a month. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn. When it comes to variations, feel free to swap out the cherry filling for blueberries or strawberries, adapting the recipe to your seasonal fruit preferences.

Conclusion

Don’t hesitate to try this Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie; it’s an easy yet indulgent dessert that’s sure to become a favorite in your household! The combination of luscious chocolate, creamy filling, and tangy cherry topping makes for an unforgettable treat. Be sure to share your experiences and any personal twists you add to the recipe—happy baking!

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries! Just pit and slice them, then sweeten slightly if desired.
What can I use if I don’t have a chocolate pie crust?
You can use a regular graham cracker crust or make a homemade chocolate crust from crushed cookies mixed with butter.
How long should I chill the pie?
For the best flavor and texture, chill the pie for at least 2 hours.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator for fresh taste.
Is there a way to make this dessert healthier?
You can substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt and use a lower sugar pudding mix or fresh fruit to reduce overall sugar content while still keeping the flavor and creamy texture.