If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that feels like a luxurious treat every time, let me introduce you to the Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie: A Decadent Dessert Recipe. This pie brings together a crisp, chocolatey crust filled with luscious cherry compote and a rich, velvety chocolate cream layer, all topped with airy whipped cream that’s just begging to be devoured. Every bite is a perfect balance of tart cherries and smooth chocolate, creating an indulgence that’s both classic and absolutely unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie: A Decadent Dessert Recipe lies in its simple, quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role—from the crunchy chocolate wafer crust that provides texture, to the sweet-tart cherry filling bursting with flavor, and the heavenly chocolate cream that binds it all together perfectly.
- 1 ½ cups chocolate wafer crumbs: Provides the base of the crust with deep cocoa notes and a satisfying crunch.
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crust crumbs together, adding moisture and richness.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar: Adds just a touch of sweetness to the crust and the cherry filling.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances flavors and enhances the chocolate’s depth.
- 4 cups fresh sweet cherries, pitted (or 2 cans 14.5 oz each, drained): The star of the pie, offering natural sweetness and juiciness.
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch: Thickens the cherry filling to a luscious glaze-like consistency.
- ¼ cup water: Helps dissolve cornstarch and cook cherries evenly.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the cherry filling with a hint of acidity.
- ½ teaspoon almond extract: Gives the cherry filling a subtle, nutty aroma.
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream (divided): Used both for the silky chocolate cream and the fluffy whipped topping.
- 4 ounces bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped: The heart of the chocolate cream layer, adding rich cocoa flavor.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Enhances the smoothness and glossiness of the chocolate cream.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses warmth into both the chocolate cream and whipped topping.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness of the chocolate cream.
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream without weighing it down.
- Chocolate shavings and fresh cherries: Optional garnishes that add stunning visual appeal and extra bursts of flavor.
How to Make Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie: A Decadent Dessert Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Wafer Crust
Start by whisking together your chocolate wafer crumbs, granulated sugar, and salt in a medium bowl to ensure even distribution of flavors. Pour in the melted butter and mix until every crumb is coated and moistened. Press this mixture firmly into a 9-inch pie plate, making sure it covers both the bottom and sides evenly. Chill this crust in your refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set perfectly — this step creates the crisp foundation that holds all your luscious fillings.
Step 2: Make the Cherry Filling
Whether you’re using fresh sweet cherries or canned ones, having them pitted and ready is key. Combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and water in a medium saucepan and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir constantly until the filling thickens and becomes glossy, around 5 to 7 minutes. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and almond extract to brighten and deepen the cherry flavor. Let this vibrant filling cool completely before layering the pie.
Step 3: Create the Silky Chocolate Cream Filling
Heat 1 ½ cups of heavy cream in a saucepan just until it begins to simmer, then pour it over the finely chopped bittersweet chocolate placed in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for a minute, allowing the chocolate to soften, then whisk until the mixture is perfectly smooth and glossy. Stir in the butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt for that luscious finish. Allow this chocolate cream to cool slightly at room temperature so it’s thick enough to layer without sinking into the cherry filling.
Step 4: Assemble Your Pie
Pour the cooled cherry filling into the chilled chocolate crust and spread it evenly. Next, gently pour the slightly cooled chocolate cream filling over the top, making sure it covers the cherries without disturbing them. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to let the layers set into that perfect creamy pie texture.
Step 5: Whip the Cream Topping
Chill your mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for about 15 to 20 minutes — this simple trick helps the cream whip up faster and fluffier. Combine the remaining heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then beat until stiff peaks form. Spread this heavenly whipped cream layer evenly on top of the chocolate cream filling for a light, airy contrast.
How to Serve Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie: A Decadent Dessert Recipe
Garnishes
Presentation really elevates the experience, and this pie is no exception. Sprinkle delicate chocolate shavings and tuck in a few fresh cherries right before serving. These touches add visual appeal and enhance the pie’s flavors, enticing everyone around the table.
Side Dishes
This pie stands tall as a dessert star on its own, but pairing it with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a few crisp almond biscotti can take your serving experience to the next level — complementing the creamy, fruity chocolate layers with added texture and temperature contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie: A Decadent Dessert Recipe in individual glass parfait cups, layering the crust, cherry filling, chocolate cream, and whipped topping separately. This personal touch impresses guests and makes clean-up easier. You can also experiment with garnishing each slice with edible flowers or a dusting of cocoa powder for a sophisticated flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This pie keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to maintain the freshness of the crust and the cream layers. This way, every slice tastes as delightful as the first.
Freezing
You can freeze the pie, but it’s best to do so before adding the whipped cream topping to avoid texture changes. Wrap the pie well with plastic and foil and freeze for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge for the best texture and flavor preservation.
Reheating
Since this pie is best served chilled, reheating isn’t recommended. Instead, allow frozen slices to thaw in the fridge and bring to a pleasant cool temperature before serving to maintain the luscious cream texture and fresh cherry flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just thaw and drain them well before using to prevent excess moisture in your filling. Frozen cherries work wonderfully, especially when fresh cherries aren’t in season.
What can I substitute for almond extract?
If you don’t have almond extract on hand, vanilla extract is a fine substitute. It won’t replicate the nutty note exactly, but it will still add a lovely depth to the cherry filling.
Is it okay to use a store-bought chocolate cookie crust?
Sure! Using a pre-made crust can save time and still deliver delicious results. Just be sure to pick a high-quality chocolate cookie crust to keep the flavor rich and satisfying.
How do I get the whipped cream to stiff peaks?
Make sure your cream and tools are cold, then beat the cream steadily until it forms firm peaks that hold their shape without collapsing. Avoid overbeating to prevent it turning into butter!
Can I double the recipe to make a larger pie?
You can increase the ingredient quantities to suit a bigger pie dish, just keep an eye on the crust’s thickness when pressing it in and adjust chilling times accordingly for best structure.
Final Thoughts
With its irresistible combo of chocolate, cherries, and creamy layers, the Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie: A Decadent Dessert Recipe is a dessert worth trying over and over again. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy night in, this pie never fails to impress and satisfy. So grab those simple ingredients and treat yourself to a slice of happiness that tastes as good as it looks!
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Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie: A Decadent Dessert Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in this luscious Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie, featuring a crisp chocolate wafer crust, a rich cherry filling simmered to perfection, and a silky bittersweet chocolate cream topping finished with light whipped cream and decorative chocolate shavings and fresh cherries. Perfect for special occasions or a decadent dessert treat.
Ingredients
Chocolate 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
- Fresh cherries (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, drain and pat dry thoroughly. 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 and stir in lemon juice and almond extract. Allow the cherry filling to cool completely.
- Make the chocolate cream filling: In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the finely chopped bittersweet chocolate placed 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. Let the mixture cool slightly at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.
- Assemble the pie: Pour the cooled cherry filling evenly into the prepared chocolate crust. Gently pour the slightly cooled chocolate cream filling over the cherry layer. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or, for best results, overnight to fully set.
- Prepare the whipped cream topping: Chill the mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for 15-20 minutes. In the chilled bowl, combine heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, beat until stiff peaks form. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the top of the chocolate cream filling.
- Garnish and serve: Decorate the top with chocolate shavings and fresh cherries if desired. Slice and serve chilled. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator.
Notes
- For a firmer crust, freeze the crust before adding fillings.
- Fresh cherries provide the best flavor but canned cherries are a convenient alternative.
- Be careful not to overheat the cream when making the chocolate filling to prevent scorching.
- Whip cream until stiff peaks form for a stable topping.
- Chilling the pie overnight enhances the flavor meld and texture.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
