Description
This Indulgent Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie is a luscious no-bake dessert combining sweet cherry pie filling with a creamy chocolate mousse and fluffy whipped topping. Perfect for any occasion, it requires minimal effort while delivering rich flavors and beautiful presentation. The combination of tart cherries and smooth chocolate cream in a flaky pre-baked crust makes this pie a delightful treat that impresses guests with its decadent yet effortless preparation.
Ingredients
Scale
Cherry Layer
- 1 can Cherry Pie Filling (use canned for convenience)
Chocolate Mousse Layer
- 8 oz Cream Cheese (softened for easy mixing)
- 1 pkg Instant Chocolate Pudding Mix (dark chocolate variety preferred)
- 2 cups Cold Milk (whole milk recommended to activate pudding mix)
Whipped Topping and Garnish
- 8 oz Whipped Topping (store-bought or homemade)
- Mini Chocolate Chips (optional, for added texture)
- Maraschino Cherries (for garnishing the pie)
Pie Base
- 1 9-inch Pre-Baked Pie Crust (your favorite type)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Bake your 9-inch pie crust according to package instructions or your favorite recipe until golden and firm. Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack before assembling the pie.
- Spread the Cherry Layer: Evenly spoon and spread the cherry pie filling over the base of the cooled pie crust, making sure it covers the entire surface for a balanced 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 milk until thickened. Fold the pudding mixture into the cream cheese gently until fully combined to create the chocolate mousse.
- Layer the Chocolate Mixture: Spoon the chocolate mousse evenly over the cherry layer in the pie crust. Use a spatula to smooth the surface for an attractive, uniform finish.
- Top with Whipped Cream: Spread the whipped topping evenly over the chocolate mousse layer, creating a smooth and fluffy top layer that adds lightness to the pie.
- Garnish Beautifully: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the whipped topping for added texture. Arrange maraschino cherries artfully on top to enhance visual appeal and complement the cherry layer beneath.
- Chill to Set: Place the assembled pie in the refrigerator and chill for at least 3 hours. This resting time allows the layers to set firmly and flavors to meld together.
- Serve with Style: Use a hot knife to carefully slice the pie into servings. Serve the pie cold to enjoy the creamy textures and rich flavors at their best.
Notes
- For best results, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps in the mousse.
- Using a pre-baked pie crust saves time and provides a crisp base for the creamy layers.
- The pie must chill for at least 3 hours to properly set; overnight chilling is recommended for optimal texture.
- Mini chocolate chips are optional but add a delightful crunch; substitute with chopped nuts if preferred.
- Use a sharp, warmed knife for clean and neat pie slices.
