Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie Recipe
Introduction
This Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie is a delightful combination of rich chocolate and sweet cherry flavors layered in a buttery crust. Perfect for any occasion, this dessert balances creamy texture with a fruity topping for a truly decadent treat.
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made graham cracker crust (or chocolate cookie crust)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (if making a homemade crust)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
- Fresh cherries (for garnish, optional)
- Whipped cream (for serving, optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust. If making a homemade crust, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and press into a pie dish. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let cool. If using a pre-made crust, you can skip this step.
- Step 2: Make the Chocolate Filling. Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and stir in the chocolate chips until melted and smooth.
- Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, and milk until smooth. Gradually add the chocolate mixture to the egg yolk mixture, stirring constantly to prevent curdling.
- Step 4: Return the combined mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring continuously until thickened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow the filling to cool slightly.
- Step 5: Assemble the Pie. Pour the chocolate filling into the prepared crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
- Step 6: Add Cherry Topping. Once the chocolate layer is firm, spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the top.
- Step 7: Garnish with fresh cherries and whipped cream if desired, then serve.
Tips & Variations
- Use a chocolate cookie crust instead of graham cracker for an extra chocolatey base.
- For a smoother filling, strain the egg mixture before cooking to remove any lumps.
- Try substituting cherry pie filling with raspberry or mixed berry filling for a different fruity twist.
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before chilling to enhance the chocolate flavor.
Storage
Store the pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, allow the pie to return to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving, but it’s best enjoyed chilled. Avoid freezing as the texture may change.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a store-bought crust for this pie?
Yes, a pre-made graham cracker or chocolate cookie crust works perfectly and saves time.
How long does the chocolate filling need to chill?
The filling should chill for at least 2 hours to set properly before adding the cherry topping and serving.
Print
Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This rich and decadent Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie features a smooth chocolate filling layered with a sweet cherry topping, all nestled in a crisp graham cracker or chocolate cookie crust. Perfect for celebrations or a special dessert, this pie combines creamy chocolate, tart cherries, and a buttery crust for an irresistible treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Pie Crust
- 1 pre-made graham cracker crust (or chocolate cookie crust)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (if making a homemade crust)
Chocolate Filling
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup milk
Cherry Topping
- 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
- Fresh cherries (for garnish, optional)
- Whipped cream (for serving, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pie Crust: If using a homemade crust, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and press into a pie dish. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let cool thoroughly. If using a pre-made crust, simply ensure it is ready for filling.
- Make the Chocolate Filling: Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips until fully melted and smooth. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and milk until completely smooth. Gradually add the warm chocolate cream mixture into the egg yolk mixture while stirring constantly to prevent curdling. Return this combined mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring continuously for about 5 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Allow the filling to cool slightly.
- Assemble the Pie: Pour the chocolate filling into the prepared pie crust, smoothing the top evenly with a spatula. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firmly set.
- Add Cherry Topping: Once the chocolate layer has set, spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the top. Garnish with fresh cherries and dollops of whipped cream if desired before serving.
Notes
- For a homemade crust, use crushed graham crackers or chocolate cookies mixed with melted butter for the base.
- Ensure the cream is simmering and not boiling to avoid burning when melting chocolate.
- Constant stirring is essential when cooking the filling to prevent eggs from scrambling.
- Chilling the pie for at least 2 hours ensures the filling sets properly for clean slices.
- Fresh cherries and whipped cream add a decorative and flavorful touch but are optional.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Chocolate cherry pie, chocolate cream pie, cherry topping dessert, no-bake pie, easy chocolate pie
