If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that will wow family and friends, you absolutely need to try this Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie: A Decadent Dessert Recipe. It perfectly combines a rich, chocolatey crust with luscious cherry filling and a silky chocolate cream layer that’s topped with heavenly whipped cream. Every bite bursts with fresh cherry goodness balanced by the deep, bittersweet chocolate, making it a dessert that feels both classic and indulgent. Whether it’s a special celebration or just a treat-yourself moment, this pie is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s easy enough to make and impossible to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie: A Decadent Dessert Recipe comes from a handful of simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a key role: the chocolate wafers bring a crunchy, cocoa-flavored base; the fresh or canned cherries give a juicy burst of sweetness and tartness; and the heavy cream and bittersweet chocolate create the creamy, luxurious filling that ties everything together.
- Chocolate wafer crumbs (1 ½ cups): These provide the perfect base with a deep chocolate flavor and crisp texture.
- Unsalted butter, melted (5 tablespoons): Helps bind the crust crumbs into a sturdy yet tender shell.
- Granulated sugar (¼ cup + ½ cup): Adds sweetness to both the crust and cherry filling.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors subtly without overpowering.
- Fresh sweet cherries, pitted (4 cups) or canned cherries: The star fruit adds juicy tartness and a pop of color.
- Cornstarch (3 tablespoons): Thickens the cherry filling to a perfect glossy consistency.
- Water (¼ cup): Used to cook the cherry filling gently without diluting flavor.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens the cherry filling with a zesty kick.
- Almond extract (½ teaspoon): Adds a subtle nutty warmth complementing cherries beautifully.
- Heavy cream (3 cups, divided): Key for the smooth, luscious chocolate cream and whipped topping.
- Bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped (4 ounces): Gives the chocolate cream filling its rich depth and silkiness.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Added to the chocolate filling for extra creaminess and sheen.
- Vanilla extract (1 ½ teaspoons total): Infuses the fillings and whipped cream with warm, comforting flavor.
- Powdered sugar (3 tablespoons): Sweetens and stabilizes the whipped cream topping.
- Chocolate shavings and fresh cherries: Optional but highly recommended garnishes for a beautiful finish.
How to Make Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie: A Decadent Dessert Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Crust
Start by whisking together the chocolate wafer crumbs, granulated sugar, and salt in a medium bowl. Next, pour in the melted butter and mix until every crumb is evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly into your 9-inch pie plate, ensuring you cover both the bottom and the sides for a solid crust. Chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set. This crust provides the perfect chocolatey, crunchy foundation for the pie.
Step 2: Make the Cherry Filling
If you’re using fresh cherries, pit them first; canned cherries should be drained and patted dry. Combine the cherries with sugar, cornstarch, and water in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat while stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and is glossy, usually about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and almond extract. Let the filling cool completely—this is important to prevent melting the layers to come.
Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Cream Filling
Heat 1 ½ cups of heavy cream until it just starts to simmer, then pour it over the finely chopped bittersweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let this sit for a minute to soften the chocolate, then whisk until smooth and glossy. Stir in unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Allow the chocolate filling to cool slightly at room temperature for about 15 to 20 minutes, thickening just enough to layer without mixing into the cherry filling.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Pour the cooled cherry filling into the chilled chocolate crust, spreading it evenly. Gently pour the chocolate cream filling over the cherries to create two distinct layers. Place the pie in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or ideally overnight to let everything set perfectly.
Step 5: Whip and Add the Topping
Chill your mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for about 15 to 20 minutes. Then, beat the remaining 1 ½ cups heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the set chocolate cream filling. Finally, garnish with chocolate shavings and fresh cherries for that elegant finishing touch.
How to Serve Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie: A Decadent Dessert Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie: A Decadent Dessert Recipe with chocolate shavings and fresh cherries not only elevates its appearance but also adds delightful textures and bursts of flavor with every bite. Consider dusting a little cocoa powder or sprinkling toasted almonds for an extra special touch that guests will love.
Side Dishes
This pie is rich and creamy, so pairing it with a light side like a fresh mixed green salad with a subtle vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance. A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of espresso whipped cream also pairs wonderfully if you want to dial up the indulgence.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to get creative, serve individual slices in elegant dessert plates with a drizzle of cherry sauce or chocolate ganache alongside. You can also layer the fillings into clear glass jars for a fun, portable twist or decorate with edible flowers for a special occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once baked and assembled, your Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie: A Decadent Dessert Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to harmonize even further.
Freezing
You can freeze this pie, but for best results, freeze it un-topped or just with the chocolate cream layer and add the whipped topping fresh after thawing. Wrap the pie securely in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn, and it will keep well for up to 1 month.
Reheating
This dessert is best served chilled, so reheating is generally not recommended. However, if you want to remove the chill slightly, let individual slices sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to soften the chocolate cream filling without melting the whipped cream.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries for the filling?
Yes, frozen cherries can be a great substitute—just thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture which can thin the filling. Using fresh or canned cherries will yield the best texture and flavor but frozen works in a pinch.
Is there a way to make this pie gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free chocolate wafer cookies to make the crust or substitute with almond flour mixed with a bit of cocoa powder and butter. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I make this pie vegan?
To make a vegan version, swap out the butter for coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative, use dairy-free chocolate and coconut cream in place of heavy cream. The cherry filling is naturally vegan, so it’s still delicious without dairy.
How long does the pie take to set properly?
For the best texture and flavor, allow the pie to chill for at least 4 hours, but overnight refrigeration is ideal to ensure the layers firm up nicely and flavors meld together beautifully.
What’s the best way to slice this pie?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts for clean slices. This helps prevent the layers from smudging and keeps your presentation neat and appetizing.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie: A Decadent Dessert Recipe is one of those unforgettable desserts that feels like a special gift every time you make it. It’s rich, fresh, creamy, and packed with flavor, perfect for impressing guests or simply delighting your own sweet tooth. Give it a try—you’ll find it quickly becomes a favorite to bake and share 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 this luscious Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie, featuring a crunchy chocolate wafer crust, a sweet and tangy cherry filling, a silky bittersweet chocolate cream layer, and topped with fluffy whipped cream and elegant chocolate shavings. Perfectly balanced and decadent, this dessert is ideal for special occasions or anytime you crave a rich, fruit-infused treat.
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 crumbs are evenly moistened. Press the 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.
- 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 thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and almond extract. Allow the filling to cool completely.
- Make the chocolate cream filling: Heat 1 ½ cups heavy cream in a medium saucepan until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the finely chopped bittersweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let sit for 1 minute, then whisk until smooth and glossy. Stir in unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Cool slightly at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.
- Assemble the pie: Pour the cooled cherry filling into the prepared chocolate crust, spreading evenly. Gently pour the slightly cooled chocolate cream filling over the cherry layer. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to set.
- Prepare 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. Beat with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the top of the set chocolate cream filling.
- Garnish and serve: Decorate the whipped cream with chocolate shavings and fresh cherries if desired. Slice and serve chilled. Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh sweet cherries in season. Canned cherries can be used as a convenient alternative.
- Chilling the crust before filling helps it hold its shape and prevents sogginess.
- The chocolate cream filling must cool slightly before layering to avoid melting the cherry layer.
- Refrigerate the pie for several hours or overnight to allow the layers to firm up properly.
- Store any leftover pie covered in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days.
