If you’re ready to dive into a truly unforgettable dessert experience, Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie: A Decadent Dessert Recipe is exactly what you need. This luscious pie combines the rich, velvety texture of bittersweet chocolate cream with the bright, juicy burst of cherries, all nestled in a perfectly crisp chocolate wafer crust. Every bite is an enchanting harmony of smooth creaminess and fruity freshness, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply indulge yourself, this pie will quickly become a beloved favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie starts with a handful of simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures, from the buttery crust to the silky chocolate cream and the vibrant cherry filling.
- Chocolate wafer crumbs: Provide a deep cocoa flavor and firm, crumbly texture for the crust.
- Unsalted butter: Melts into the crumbs to bind and add richness without overpowering.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the crust and the cherry filling just right.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors, giving depth to every element.
- Fresh sweet cherries: Offer natural sweetness and a delicate tartness in the filling.
- Cornstarch: Thickens the cherry filling to a luscious consistency.
- Lemon juice: Brightens the cherry flavor and balances the sweetness.
- Almond extract: Adds a subtle, nutty note that complements the cherries beautifully.
- Heavy cream: Used twice—once for the decadent chocolate cream and again for fluffy whipped cream topping.
- Bittersweet chocolate: Creates the rich, glossy chocolate cream layer with a hint of bittersweet complexity.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor in both chocolate and whipped cream layers.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream topping while keeping it light and airy.
- Chocolate shavings and fresh cherries (optional): Perfect for an elegant, eye-catching garnish.
How to Make Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie: A Decadent Dessert Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the chocolate crust
Start by whisking together chocolate wafer crumbs, granulated sugar, and salt in a medium bowl. Pour in melted butter, mixing until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly into a 9-inch pie plate, making sure to cover the bottom and sides evenly. Then chill the crust in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes—or pop it in the freezer for 15 to 20 minutes to speed things up. This crust will provide the perfect crisp base for the luscious fillings ahead.
Step 2: Make the cherry filling
If you’re using fresh cherries, pit them carefully; if canned, drain and pat them dry. Combine cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and water in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and almond extract, which add bright and fragrant notes to the filling. Allow the cherry filling to cool fully before moving on to the next step.
Step 3: Prepare the chocolate cream filling
Heat heavy cream gently in a saucepan until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over finely chopped bittersweet chocolate placed in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for a minute to melt, then whisk until smooth and glossy. Stir in unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt for enhanced flavor and texture. Set this chocolate cream aside to cool slightly at room temperature, about 15 to 20 minutes.
Step 4: Assemble the pie layers
Spoon the cooled cherry filling into the chilled chocolate crust, spreading it evenly. Gently pour the slightly cooled chocolate cream filling over the cherry layer, taking care not to disturb it too much. Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the layers to set perfectly.
Step 5: Whip and top
Chill your mixing bowl and beaters for 15 to 20 minutes in the freezer—this helps the whipped cream fluff up beautifully. Then combine heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in the chilled bowl, beating until stiff peaks form. Spread this whipped cream thoughtfully over the top of the chocolate layer. Finally, garnish with chocolate shavings and fresh cherries to make your pie look as dazzling as it tastes.
How to Serve Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie: A Decadent Dessert Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie with extra fresh cherries and delicate chocolate shavings not only amps up the visual appeal but also intensifies the dessert’s flavor profile. For a playful twist, you can sprinkle crushed toasted almonds or even ravishing edible gold flakes for a luxe finish. These little touches show you care and elevate the experience for anyone lucky enough to enjoy a slice.
Side Dishes
This pie boldly stands on its own, but pairing it with a delicate espresso or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream takes it to new heights. A small bowl of lightly spiced whipped cream or a drizzle of cherry liqueur around the plate can beautifully complement the rich chocolate and fruity cherry notes, making every bite an epic celebration of flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this pie on a rustic wooden board adorned with sprigs of fresh mint or edible flowers for a charming farmhouse vibe. Alternatively, presentation in individual clear dessert glasses with layers of crust crumbs, cherry filling, and chocolate cream creates a wow-worthy individual portion perfect for parties. Whichever way you choose, Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie: A Decadent Dessert Recipe never fails to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once made, cover your Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie tightly with plastic wrap or a pie dome and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully fresh for up to 3 days, with all the flavors melding together and the texture remaining perfectly smooth and creamy.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this pie later, it can be frozen before adding the whipped cream topping. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and top with freshly whipped cream and garnishes.
Reheating
This dessert is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating is not recommended. Instead, allow the pie to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to soften the flavors and textures gently. This way, every bite remains perfectly luscious.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries work well as long as you thaw and drain them thoroughly to prevent excess moisture that could make the filling too runny. The cherry flavor will still shine beautifully in the pie.
Is it possible to make this pie gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the chocolate wafer crumbs with a gluten-free chocolate cookie crumb of your choice. Make sure to check the ingredients to avoid any hidden gluten, and your pie will remain just as delicious.
Can I substitute the bittersweet chocolate with milk chocolate?
You can, but keep in mind that milk chocolate is sweeter and less intense. The pie will be creamier and less rich in cocoa flavor, which some might prefer. Adjust the sugar in the cherry filling slightly if using sweeter chocolate.
How long does it take to make this pie?
The active prep time is around 45 minutes, but you need to chill the crust and the pie layers, so plan for at least 4 hours of chilling time before slicing. Overnight refrigeration is ideal for the best texture and flavor melding.
Can I prepare this pie ahead for a party?
Definitely! This pie is a fantastic make-ahead dessert. Prepare it the day before your event, refrigerate overnight, and add the whipped cream and garnishes just before serving for a fresh and impressive dessert.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about making and sharing Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie: A Decadent Dessert Recipe with those you love. Its delightful layers bring together the best of chocolate and fruit in one indulgent bite. Give this recipe a try—you might just find it becoming your new signature dessert that everyone eagerly asks for again and again!
Print
Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie: A Decadent Dessert Recipe
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in a rich and decadent Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie, featuring a crisp chocolate wafer crust, luscious cherry filling, silky chocolate cream, and fluffy whipped cream topping. This showstopper dessert is perfect for special occasions or satisfying your sweet tooth with layers of chocolate and fresh cherries.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 ½ cups chocolate wafer crumbs (about 36 wafers)
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Cherry Filling
- 4 cups fresh sweet cherries, pitted (or 2 cans (14.5 oz each) pitted cherries in water, drained)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- ¼ cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
Chocolate Cream Filling
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 4 ounces bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Whipped Cream Topping
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Chocolate shavings (for garnish)
- Fresh cherries (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, whisk together the chocolate wafer crumbs, granulated sugar, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press the crumb mixture firmly into a 9-inch pie plate, covering the bottom and sides. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or freeze for 15-20 minutes to set.
- Prepare the cherry filling: If using fresh cherries, pit them. If using canned cherries, drain and pat dry. In a medium saucepan, combine cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat, then stir in lemon juice and almond extract. Let the cherry filling cool completely.
- Make the chocolate cream filling: In a medium saucepan, heat 1 ½ cups heavy cream until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the finely chopped bittersweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for 1 minute, then whisk until smooth and glossy. Stir in unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Allow it to cool at room temperature for 15-20 minutes until slightly thickened but still pourable.
- Assemble the pie: Pour the cooled cherry filling into the prepared chocolate crust, spreading it evenly. Gently pour the slightly cooled chocolate cream filling over the cherry layer. Place the pie in the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to set the fillings.
- Prepare the whipped cream topping: Chill a mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for 15-20 minutes. Then, in the chilled bowl, combine heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
- Finish the pie: Spread the whipped cream evenly over the top of the chocolate cream filling. Garnish generously with chocolate shavings and fresh cherries if desired. Slice and serve chilled. Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh cherries with canned cherries if fresh are unavailable, but be sure to drain and pat them dry to avoid excess liquid.
- For a deeper chocolate flavor, use high-quality bittersweet chocolate (60-70% cocoa).
- Chilling the crust before adding the filling helps to keep it crisp and prevents sogginess.
- Make sure the cherry filling is completely cooled before pouring the chocolate cream layer to avoid melting it.
- Use cold heavy cream and chilled equipment for best whipped cream results.
- This pie can be made a day ahead to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
