This decadent Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie combines the rich indulgence of chocolate pudding with the sweet-tart burst of cherries, all nestled in a crispy pie crust and topped with fluffy whipped cream. It’s the perfect dessert that brings together classic flavors in one show-stopping pie that’s surprisingly easy to make.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie is a dessert lover’s dream come true. The combination of smooth chocolate pudding and juicy cherries creates a perfect balance of flavors that appeals to both chocolate enthusiasts and fruit lovers. What makes this recipe truly special is how simple it is to create such an impressive dessert. With no baking required for the filling, you can have this gorgeous pie ready in just 30 minutes of active preparation time. The contrast of textures – from the crisp crust to the creamy chocolate layer and the tender cherries – makes every bite a delightful experience. Plus, it’s a make-ahead dessert that actually improves in flavor as it chills, making it perfect for entertaining or special occasions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling (or homemade)
- 1 box (3.9 oz) chocolate pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk (for pudding mix)
- 1 ½ cups whipped cream (homemade or store-bought)
- ½ cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
- Fresh cherries for garnish (optional)
How to Make Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie
Creating this Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. The key is layering the components properly and allowing adequate chilling time for the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Pudding Layer Prepare the chocolate pudding according to package directions using the 2 cups of cold milk. Whisk continuously for 2 minutes until the mixture begins to thicken. Pour the prepared pudding into your pre-baked pie crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Place the pie in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to allow the pudding layer to set slightly.
Step 2: Add the Cherry Layer Remove the pie from the refrigerator and carefully spoon the cherry pie filling over the chocolate pudding layer. Distribute the cherries evenly, ensuring they cover the entire surface. The slight firmness of the pudding will prevent the cherries from sinking too deeply into the chocolate layer.
Step 3: Create the Whipped Cream Topping If using store-bought whipped cream, you can use it directly. For homemade whipped cream, beat heavy cream with a mixer until soft peaks form, adding a tablespoon of sugar if desired. Gently spread the whipped cream over the cherry layer, creating decorative swirls or peaks for visual appeal.
Step 4: Add Finishing Touches Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the whipped cream topping. If using fresh cherries for garnish, wash and dry them thoroughly before placing them strategically around the pie for an elegant presentation.
Step 5: Chill and Set Refrigerate the completed Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This chilling time allows all the layers to set properly and the flavors to meld together perfectly.
Helpful Tips
Choose a high-quality pre-baked pie crust for the best foundation – graham cracker crusts also work wonderfully with this recipe. When preparing the chocolate pudding, use cold milk and whisk vigorously to prevent lumps from forming. For the smoothest texture, strain the pudding through a fine-mesh sieve before pouring it into the crust. If making your own cherry filling, use a combination of sweet and tart cherries for the most complex flavor profile. When spreading the whipped cream, use a gentle folding motion rather than aggressive stirring to maintain its light, airy texture. For clean slices, dip your knife in warm water and wipe it clean between cuts.
Details
This Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie serves 8 generous portions and requires approximately 30 minutes of active preparation time. The total time from start to finish, including chilling, is about 4.5 hours. The recipe difficulty level is beginner-friendly, making it perfect for novice bakers or anyone looking for a spectacular dessert without complex techniques. The flavor profile balances rich chocolate with bright cherry notes, while the texture combination provides interest in every bite. This dessert is best served chilled and can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance.
Notes
For a more intense chocolate flavor, consider using dark chocolate pudding mix or adding a tablespoon of cocoa powder to regular chocolate pudding. Fresh cherry pie filling can be made by combining 4 cups of pitted cherries with ½ cup sugar, 3 tablespoons cornstarch, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice, then cooking until thickened. If the pie crust becomes soggy, brush it with melted chocolate before adding the pudding layer for a moisture barrier. For a lighter version, substitute the whipped cream with whipped topping or use sugar-free pudding mix. The chocolate chips can be replaced with chocolate shavings or chopped chocolate for a more elegant presentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen cherries instead of canned pie filling? Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Thaw them completely, drain excess liquid, and mix with sugar and cornstarch to create your own filling.
How long does this pie keep in the refrigerator? The Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when covered properly.
Can I make this pie ahead of time? Absolutely. This pie actually tastes better when made a day ahead, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
What if I don’t have chocolate pudding mix? You can make homemade chocolate pudding using milk, sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and eggs, though the boxed mix provides convenience and consistent results.
Can I freeze this pie? While possible, freezing may affect the texture of the whipped cream and cherry layers. It’s best enjoyed fresh from the refrigerator.
Storage Instructions
Store your Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie covered in the refrigerator for optimal freshness. Use plastic wrap or aluminum foil to cover the entire pie, or place it in a large covered container. The pie should be consumed within 3 days for the best taste and texture. If you need to transport the pie, keep it chilled and avoid leaving it at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Individual slices can be covered and stored separately if you prefer. Always use clean utensils when serving to maintain freshness for remaining portions.
Conclusion
This Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie represents the perfect marriage of convenience and elegance, delivering a restaurant-quality dessert that can be made in your own kitchen with minimal effort. The layered approach creates visual appeal while the flavor combination of rich chocolate and bright cherries satisfies a wide range of taste preferences. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving a memorable dessert, this Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie delivers on all fronts. The make-ahead nature of this recipe makes it particularly valuable for busy schedules, while the impressive presentation ensures it will be the highlight of any meal. Give this recipe a try, and prepare to receive countless compliments on your baking prowess.