If you have a sweet tooth and adore the classic flavors of rich chocolate paired with the bright, tangy burst of cherries, you are going to fall head over heels for this Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie Recipe. It’s the kind of dessert that dazzles with every bite, combining a crunchy cookie crust, luscious whipped cream, and sweet cherry topping in perfect harmony. Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself, this pie offers that dreamy blend of flavors and textures that feel indulgent but stay refreshingly light.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started on this Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie Recipe means gathering a handful of simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role—from the buttery cookie crust that adds crunch, to the fluffy whipped cream that brings airy softness, and of course, the vibrant cherries for that unforgettable fruity pop.
- Chocolate cookie crumbs: These provide a rich, chocolaty base with a satisfying crunch that holds the pie together.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Binds the cookie crumbs into a sturdy crust and adds a silky richness without overwhelming saltiness.
- Heavy whipping cream: The secret to that dreamy whipped topping, offering a creamy, luscious texture when whipped properly.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream delicately while ensuring a smooth, lump-free finish.
- Cherry pie filling or pitted cherries: Bursting with flavor and juice, cherries add a gorgeous color contrast and tangy sweetness to the pie.
How to Make Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie Recipe
Step 1: Make the Crust
Begin by combining the chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter in a bowl. This simple mix transforms into a decadent crust when pressed firmly along the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie pan. Pop it into the fridge to chill for at least 30 minutes so it sets perfectly firm and ready to hold all that delicious filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Whipped Cream
Next, take your heavy whipping cream and whip it up in a large bowl until soft peaks start to form—that’s when the cream holds shape but still looks fluffy and light. Slowly add in the powdered sugar and keep whipping until stiff peaks appear. This means the cream will be stable and thick enough to layer beautifully without collapsing.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
With your crust chilled and whipped cream ready, it’s time to build the pie! Spread a generous layer of the fluffy whipped cream inside the cookie crust, smoothing it out evenly. Then, spoon the cherry pie filling or fresh pitted cherries right on top, spreading them so each slice will have that lovely burst of cherry goodness.
Step 4: Chill & Serve
For the magic finish, refrigerate the assembled pie for at least 2 hours. This chilling step allows the flavors to meld together and the filling to set, making it easier to slice cleanly and enjoy that perfect bite of creamy, fruity, and chocolaty bliss. Serve it chilled, and watch everyone’s eyes light up!
How to Serve Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Feel free to elevate your Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie Recipe with some creative garnishes. A sprinkle of chocolate shavings or curls on top adds elegant texture and a hint of extra chocolate flavor. Fresh cherries placed atop the whipped cream can also provide a fresh pop of color and juicy sweetness, making the pie almost too pretty to eat—but don’t hold back!
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce for those extra special occasions. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or a rich dark roast tea can also complement the dessert’s flavors, balancing its sweetness and rounding out the experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider giving your pie a personal touch by serving it in individual glass dessert bowls for a rustic, charming look. Adding a sprig of fresh mint on each slice can bring a refreshing note and a splash of green that contrasts beautifully. If you’re feeling festive, top it with chopped toasted nuts for crunch or a dusting of cocoa powder for that restaurant-quality finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just cover it well with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing any fridge odors and to maintain that creamy texture.
Freezing
While you can freeze this pie, it’s best to do so before assembling the whipped cream and cherry topping, as the texture of whipped cream may change upon thawing. Freeze the crust alone, then assemble fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best results.
Reheating
This pie is meant to be enjoyed cold, so reheating isn’t recommended. Serve straight from the fridge to savor the cool, creamy, and refreshing qualities that make this recipe so special.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Absolutely! Fresh pitted cherries work wonderfully in this recipe and provide a natural, less sweet alternative. Just make sure they’re well-drained so the pie doesn’t get soggy.
Is it possible to make this pie vegan or dairy-free?
Yes, by substituting dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like coconut cream for the whipped cream and vegan butter for the crust, you can create a dairy-free version that’s just as delicious.
How long should I whip the cream to get stiff peaks?
Whipping cream can take about 3 to 5 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed. Watch closely and stop as soon as stiff peaks form to avoid over-whipping, which can turn the cream grainy.
Can I prepare this pie in advance for a party?
Definitely! In fact, this pie tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert. Just keep it chilled until serving time.
What is the best way to slice this cream pie cleanly?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry before slicing each piece. This helps create clean cuts without dragging the creamy layers.
Final Thoughts
Once you dive into this Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie Recipe, you’ll see why it’s become a treasured classic for so many. It’s simple enough for everyday treats yet elegant enough for special celebrations. So go ahead, whip up a batch and share the joy—there’s something truly magical about combining chocolate, cherries, and cream that brings smiles all around!
Print
Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie features a rich chocolate cookie crust filled with luscious whipped cream and topped with sweet cherry pie filling, creating a delightful no-bake dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 to 1 ½ cups cherry pie filling or pitted cherries
Topping (Optional)
- Additional whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings
Instructions
- Make the Crust: In a bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs with the melted unsalted butter until the mixture is evenly coated and holds together when pressed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the crust to set firmly.
- Prepare Whipped Cream: In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream using a hand or stand mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar while continuing to whip the cream until stiff peaks develop, ensuring the whipped cream is light and stable for layering.
- Assemble the Pie: Spread a generous layer of the prepared whipped cream evenly into the chilled chocolate cookie crust. Then, spoon the cherry pie filling or pitted cherries uniformly over the whipped cream layer. Optionally, add another layer of whipped cream on top and garnish with chocolate shavings for extra flavor and decoration.
- Chill & Serve: Refrigerate the assembled pie for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set and flavors to meld. When ready, slice the pie and serve chilled for a creamy, refreshing dessert experience.
Notes
- Ensure the crust is firmly chilled before adding the filling to prevent sogginess.
- Use high-quality cherry pie filling or fresh pitted cherries for the best flavor.
- For a lighter version, you can reduce the powdered sugar or use a sugar substitute.
- Decorate with extra chocolate shavings or fresh cherries just before serving for an appealing presentation.
- This pie is best eaten within 2 days of preparation for optimal freshness.
