My love affair with the Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie started at a summer potluck years ago. I took one bite of that creamy, dreamy dessert and was instantly hooked – it was pure bliss. This easy chocolate cherry cream pie recipe is my go-to when I want something truly special without spending hours in the kitchen. Imagine a crisp, buttery crust cradling a velvety smooth chocolate pudding layer, topped with bright, tart cherries and fluffy whipped cream. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors that feels so decadent. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie

The taste is simply divine: a perfect balance of rich chocolate and tart cherries.
It’s incredibly easy to make, with minimal prep time for a truly creamy chocolate cherry pie.
A fantastic family-friendly dessert that even picky eaters adore.
It’s a budget-friendly way to impress guests with a gourmet treat.
Enjoy the delightful texture of this creamy chocolate cherry pie, from the crisp crust to the smooth filling.
A refreshing no-bake option, perfect for warmer weather or when you don’t want to heat up the kitchen.
A wonderful way to incorporate fruit into a decadent dessert.

Ingredients for Your Homemade Chocolate Cherry Pie

Gathering the right chocolate cherry pie ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful dessert. You’ll need a pre-baked 9-inch pie crust, which you can buy or make yourself ahead of time. For the luscious filling, grab one can (21 oz) of cherry pie filling – its tartness is key! Then, you’ll need one box (3.9 oz) of chocolate pudding mix and 2 cups of cold milk to create that rich, creamy chocolate pudding layer. To top it all off, have 1 ½ cups of whipped cream ready and about ½ cup of chocolate chips for that extra touch of decadence. Fresh cherries are a beautiful optional garnish to make it extra special.

How to Make an Easy Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie

Step 1: If you haven’t already, ensure your 9-inch pie crust is fully baked and completely cooled. This is crucial for preventing a soggy bottom, especially when dealing with a moist chocolate cherry pie filling recipe.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate pudding mix with 2 cups of cold milk. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken. Let it set for about 5 minutes to allow the pudding to set up nicely.
Step 3: Carefully spoon the canned cherry pie filling into the bottom of your cooled pie crust. Spread it out evenly to create a beautiful, tart base for the pie.
Step 4: Pour the prepared chocolate pudding mixture over the cherry layer. Use a spatula to smooth the top, ensuring an even distribution from edge to edge.
Step 5: Once the pudding has firmed up slightly, gently spread the whipped cream over the chocolate layer. Aim for a smooth, even coating that covers the entire surface.
Step 6: Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the whipped cream topping. If you’re using fresh cherries, arrange them attractively on top for a beautiful presentation.
Step 7: Cover the pie loosely with plastic wrap, making sure it doesn’t touch the topping. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow everything to chill and firm up properly. This chilling time is essential for the best texture and allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it a truly delightful chocolate and cherry pie dessert. Serving this chilled pie is key to enjoying its creamy consistency, especially if you started with a store-bought chocolate cherry pie crust recipe.

Pro Tips for the Best Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie

Want to elevate your pie game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make this already delicious dessert even better. Following these simple tips will ensure your pie is a showstopper every single time.

For the smoothest pudding, use whole milk. It really makes a difference in the texture and richness of your pie.
Always ensure your pie crust is completely cooled before you start assembling. This prevents any sogginess and ensures a clean slice.
Chill the pie for at least 2 hours, but longer is even better! This allows the layers to set properly and the flavors to meld beautifully.
If you plan to make this ahead, consider using stabilized whipped cream for the topping, as it holds its shape longer.

What’s the secret to perfect chocolate cherry cream pie?

The secret to a truly perfect and decadent chocolate cherry pie lies in the balance of textures and the quality of your chocolate pudding. Whisking the pudding mix with cold milk until it’s just thickened, then chilling it thoroughly, creates that signature velvety smoothness. For an even richer chocolate cherry pie experience, ensure your pudding is fully set before adding it to the crust. You can learn more about achieving the perfect pudding consistency from Food Network’s guide.

Can I make this chocolate and cherry pie dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely! This chocolate and cherry pie dessert is fantastic for making ahead. You can assemble the entire pie up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated. Just make sure to add the whipped cream topping and any garnishes right before serving for the freshest look. This is a great make-ahead option, similar to how you might prepare homemade ice cream for a party.

How do I avoid common mistakes with a chocolate cherry cream pie?

The biggest pitfalls are a soggy crust and pudding that doesn’t set. Make sure your crust is fully cooled and baked. Also, don’t skimp on the chilling time; it’s crucial for the pudding to firm up and give you that perfect slice of chocolate cherry cream pie. For more baking tips, check out King Arthur Baking’s resources.

Best Ways to Serve Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie

Serving this delightful pie is almost as fun as making it! For a truly classic presentation, I love topping each slice with a dollop of extra whipped cream and a few fresh cherries. It really enhances the visual appeal and adds a fresh burst of flavor. If you’re looking for more chocolate cherry pie topping ideas, consider a sprinkle of shaved dark chocolate or even a light dusting of cocoa powder. This pie also pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an extra decadent treat, making it the perfect chocolate and cherry pie dessert for any occasion.

Nutrition Facts for Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per slice of this delicious pie. Keep in mind these are approximate values.

Calories: 350
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 35g
Sodium: 250mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie

Once your delicious chocolate cherry cream pie has been made and enjoyed, you’ll want to know the best ways to store any leftovers. Make sure the pie is completely cooled before covering it. The best method is to use an airtight container or tightly wrap the pie in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil, to protect it from freezer burn and pantry odors. Stored this way in the refrigerator, your pie should stay fresh and tasty for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions of this wonderful chocolate cherry pie for dessert. Wrap individual slices securely and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a frozen slice, the best way to reheat it is to let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Avoid reheating in the oven or microwave, as this can cause the creamy filling to break down. For more storage tips, consider these storage tips which can be adapted for pies.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie

What makes this chocolate cherry cream pie so creamy?

The magic happens with the chocolate pudding made from scratch using cold milk and a good quality pudding mix. This creates a smooth, velvety texture that’s just divine. For an even richer chocolate cherry pie experience, ensure your pudding is fully set before adding it to the crust.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned pie filling?

You absolutely can! If you opt for fresh cherries, you’ll want to pit them and then simmer them with a bit of sugar and cornstarch until they thicken into a compote. This homemade filling can make your rich chocolate cherry pie even more special, though the canned filling offers convenience and a classic tartness. Making a cherry compote is similar to preparing fruit for other fruit pies.

How do I prevent the whipped cream from weeping on my chocolate cherry pie?

To keep that topping looking pristine, make sure your whipped cream is well chilled and stiff peaks form when you whip it. You can also add a stabilizer like a bit of cornstarch or cream of tartar to your whipping cream. This helps ensure your chocolate cherry cream pie stays beautiful for longer.

Is this a no-bake chocolate cherry cream pie?

Yes, this is primarily a no-bake dessert! The only cooking involved is pre-baking the pie crust. The filling itself is simply mixed and chilled, making it a fantastic option when you want a delicious dessert without turning on the oven. It’s truly an easy chocolate cherry cream pie.

Variations of Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie You Can Try

While this classic chocolate cherry cream pie is fantastic on its own, there are so many fun ways to switch it up! Exploring these chocolate cherry pie variations can cater to different tastes and dietary needs, making this dessert even more versatile.

Dietary Swap: For a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free chocolate pudding mix and almond or oat milk. Top with coconut whipped cream for a completely vegan treat.
Crust Alternatives: Instead of a traditional pie crust, try using chocolate cookie crumbs or graham cracker crumbs mixed with melted butter for the base. This adds another layer of chocolatey goodness.
Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the chocolate pudding mixture to deepen the chocolate flavor. A splash of cherry liqueur or almond extract in the filling can also offer a delightful flavor twist.
White Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie: Swap the chocolate pudding for white chocolate pudding mix for a lighter, sweeter flavor profile that still pairs wonderfully with the tart cherries.