Description
This Indulgent Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie is a luscious no-bake dessert combining a sweet cherry pie filling with a creamy chocolate mousse, all layered in a crisp pre-baked pie crust and topped with whipped cream and chocolate chips. Perfect for those seeking an easy yet decadent treat that requires no oven time beyond a pre-baked crust.
Ingredients
Scale
Pie Base and Filling
- 1 can Cherry Pie Filling (use canned for convenience)
- 1 9-inch Pre-Baked Pie Crust (choose your favorite base)
Chocolate Mousse Layer
- 8 oz Cream Cheese (softened for easy mixing)
- 1 pkg Instant Chocolate Pudding Mix (dark chocolate variety preferred)
- 2 cups Cold Whole Milk (activates the pudding mix)
Topping and Garnish
- 8 oz Whipped Topping (store-bought or homemade)
- Mini Chocolate Chips (optional for added texture)
- Maraschino Cherries (for garnishing the pie)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Bake your 9-inch pie crust according to the package instructions or your favorite recipe until golden and firm. Once baked, allow it to cool completely on a wire rack to ensure it sets properly before adding the fillings.
- Spread the Cherry Layer: Evenly spoon and spread the canned cherry pie filling across the base of the cooled pie crust, making sure to cover the entire surface for a consistent fruit layer.
- Mix the Chocolate Mousse: Beat the softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and cold whole milk until the mixture thickens. Then gently fold the pudding mixture into the cream cheese until well combined and smooth.
- Layer the Chocolate Mixture: Spoon the chocolate mousse evenly over the cherry layer in the pie crust. Use a spatula to spread it smoothly to the edges to create a uniform mousse layer.
- Top with Whipped Cream: Spread the whipped topping over the chocolate mousse layer, smoothing it out evenly with a spatula to create a soft, creamy top layer.
- Garnish Beautifully: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the whipped topping and arrange maraschino cherries artfully for decorative flair and added flavor contrast.
- Chill to Set: Transfer the assembled pie to the refrigerator and chill for at least 3 hours. This chilling time allows all the layers to set completely, making the pie firm and ready to slice.
- Serve with Style: When ready to serve, use a hot knife to slice into the pie cleanly. Serve the pie cold to enjoy its creamy and refreshing textures perfectly.
Notes
- For best results, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps in the mousse layer.
- If you prefer a less sweet pie, choose a low-sugar cherry pie filling or reduce the amount slightly.
- Feel free to substitute store-bought whipped topping with freshly whipped cream for a richer flavor.
- Using a hot knife (dip in hot water and wipe dry) will help achieve cleaner slices when serving.
- The pie can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for optimal freshness.
