Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie Recipe

If you adore creamy, dreamy desserts with a pop of fruity flavor and a hint of chocolate, this Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie is about to become your new obsession. Think: a velvety no-bake filling bursting with cherries and flecks of chocolate, all nestled in a classic chocolate cookie crust, then finished with swirls of whipped cream, juicy maraschino cherries, and a sprinkle of extra chocolate chips. Whether it’s a laid-back summer potluck or a special holiday treat, this pie delivers big on flavor, color, and joyful nostalgia. Each bite is sweet, smooth, and impossibly fun—exactly the kind of treat you’ll want to share with everyone you love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Part of the magic of this Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie is how easy it is to make, thanks to a handful of essential pantry and fridge staples. Each ingredient brings unique flavor or texture, coming together in a luscious, layered dessert that truly wows:

• Chocolate cookie pie crust: The chocolatey, crumbly base that anchors every creamy, fruity bite—store-bought keeps things effortless, but homemade adds a personal touch.
• Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Adds tangy richness and forms the smooth, creamy backbone of the filling.
• Whipped topping (8 oz, thawed): Makes the filling light, airy, and satisfyingly fluffy—plus, it’s a breeze to work with.
• Cherry pie filling (21 oz can): Juicy cherries suspended in glossy sauce infuse the pie with fruitiness and sweet-tart flavor.
• Mini chocolate chips (1 cup): Little bursts of chocolate in every forkful, perfectly proportioned for dainty bites and great for mixing in.
• Almond extract (1/2 tsp, optional): Just a hint deepens the cherry flavor and gives everything a subtle, bakery-style aroma.
• Extra whipped topping, maraschino cherries, and mini chocolate chips: For topping! These garnishes make every slice look irresistible and more festive.

How to Make Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie

Step 1: Beat the Cream Cheese

Start by placing your softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer or sturdy spatula, beat it until it’s completely smooth and fluffy—no lumps allowed. This ensures your Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie filling will be light and luxurious, providing the perfect canvas for all the fun mix-ins to come.

Step 2: Fold in the Whipped Topping

Next, gently fold in the thawed whipped topping. Use broad, sweeping motions with a spatula to keep the mixture as airy as possible. This step is the secret to a mousse-like, cloud-soft filling that practically melts on your tongue.

Step 3: Add Cherry Pie Filling and Almond Extract

Pour in the cherry pie filling and, if you love a touch of warmth, a bit of almond extract. Stir everything together just until evenly blended. You’ll see bright streaks of cherry and flecks of cream—don’t overmix! This is where the Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie starts to look irresistible.

Step 4: Mix in Mini Chocolate Chips

Scatter in those adorable mini chocolate chips, saving a few for the topping. Fold them in gently so they’re tucked throughout the batter, offering surprise pops of chocolate in every slice.

Step 5: Fill the Crust

Spoon the creamy mixture into your chocolate cookie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. You want it to reach all the edges and look softly domed—a visual promise of luscious bites ahead.

Step 6: Decorate and Chill

Now for the fun part: pipe or dollop extra whipped topping around the edges, nestle maraschino cherries into each swirl, then sprinkle with the reserved mini chocolate chips. The final touch? Chill the pie for at least 4 hours until set—patience is key! This step allows the flavors to meld and the filling to firm up perfectly.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Once thoroughly chilled, slice your Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie into generous wedges. Each piece should hold its shape, glistening with creamy filling, ruby cherries, and chocolate pearls. Serve it cold and savor the smiles it brings!

How to Serve Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie

Garnishes

For a picture-perfect pie, don’t forget the finishing flourishes. A cloud of whipped topping piped along the edges, glossy maraschino cherries atop each swirl, and a few extra mini chocolate chips add color, sparkle, and a little extra joy to the Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie. They’ll turn even an ordinary weeknight into a party!

Side Dishes

This pie shines as the sweet star of any menu, but you can balance things out with simple sides like fresh berries or a fruit salad. For something cozy, coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk makes a classic pairing—each brings out the pie’s creamy notes and rich chocolate flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie in mason jars for individual trifles, or use mini tart shells to make adorable, bite-sized desserts for parties. Need something special for Valentine’s Day or birthdays? Decorate with themed sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or even edible glitter for wow-factor presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Stash any leftover Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie in the fridge, loosely covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to four days. The flavors deepen as it chills, so sneaking a slice the next day might be the tastiest decision you’ll make!

Freezing

This pie actually freezes beautifully. After assembling (but before garnishing), wrap tightly in several layers of plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then add toppings before serving for best texture and freshness.

Reheating

No need for reheating—this pie is best enjoyed chilled, straight from the fridge. If you’ve frozen it, let it thaw slowly in the refrigerator to preserve that soft, mousse-like filling. Avoid microwaving to keep the creamy consistency intact.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?

You can certainly use fresh cherries if they’re in season! However, you’ll want to cook them down with a bit of sugar and cornstarch to achieve the syrupy consistency found in canned cherry pie filling. This keeps the pie creamy rather than watery and ensures the flavor really pops in the finished dessert.

Is it possible to make the Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap in a gluten-free chocolate cookie crust, widely available at most grocery stores, and double-check that your chocolate chips and whipped topping are certified gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy a slice worry-free.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie is actually even better when made ahead, as it gives all the flavors time to meld and the filling to fully set. Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance, keep it refrigerated, and garnish just before serving for maximum freshness and beauty.

Can I substitute homemade whipped cream for the whipped topping?

Homemade whipped cream is a fantastic substitute for whipped topping if you prefer a less sweet, more natural flavor. Whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 2-3 tablespoons of powdered sugar and a splash of vanilla, then use it in place of the thawed topping for a luscious homemade touch.

What should I do if my filling seems too runny?

If your filling isn’t setting properly, try chilling the pie for another hour or two. Make sure the cream cheese was at room temperature when you started, since cold cream cheese can cause lumps and loose texture. Also, ensure your whipped topping is fully thawed for the best mixability and structure.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a chocolate lover, a cherry enthusiast, or simply in need of an effortlessly show-stopping dessert, Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie has your back. It’s sweet, simple, playful, and absolutely packed with flavor—ready to win over everyone at your table. Give it a try and let it become your new favorite treat to celebrate the sweet moments, big and small!

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