Description
This indulgent no-bake chocolate cherry cream pie brings together a luscious layer of cherry pie filling with a creamy chocolate mousse, topped with fluffy whipped cream and garnished with chocolate chips and maraschino cherries. Perfect for a decadent dessert without the need for baking, it offers rich flavors and a smooth texture that will delight any chocolate and cherry lover.
Ingredients
Scale
Pie Base
- 1 9-inch Pre-baked Pie Crust (graham cracker or chocolate cookie crust recommended)
Filling
- 1 can Cherry Pie Filling
- 8 oz Cream Cheese (Neufchâtel cheese for lighter option)
- 3.9 oz Instant Chocolate Pudding Mix (dark chocolate pudding mix optional)
- 1 cup Cold Milk (any milk or plant-based alternative)
- 8 oz Whipped Topping (homemade whipped cream recommended)
Garnish
- 1/3 cup Mini Chocolate Chips (optional)
- 8 Maraschino Cherries (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: If using a store-bought crust, bake it according to the package directions and let it cool completely to ensure a firm base for the pie.
- Layer Cherry Filling: Spread the cherry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the cooled crust to create a fruity foundation.
- Make Chocolate Mousse: Beat the cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. In a separate bowl, whisk the instant chocolate pudding mix with cold milk until thickened. Gently fold the pudding mixture into the cream cheese until well combined to create a rich chocolate mousse.
- Assemble Pie Layers: Spread the chocolate mousse evenly over the cherry layer to build the creamy middle layer of the pie.
- Chill for Setting: Place the pie in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes so the mousse layer firms up slightly before adding the topping.
- Add Whipped Topping and Garnish: Spread the whipped topping evenly over the chocolate mousse layer. Sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top and place maraschino cherries as decoration if desired.
- Final Refrigeration: Cover the pie loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight, to allow all the layers to set fully and flavors to meld.
- Serve: Use a hot knife to cut clean slices through the pie. Optionally garnish individual slices with extra whipped cream and a maraschino cherry for an elegant presentation.
Notes
- Using Neufchâtel cheese reduces fat content but maintains creaminess.
- Dark chocolate pudding mix intensifies the chocolate flavor.
- Graham cracker or chocolate cookie crusts complement the filling beautifully.
- Homemade whipped cream enhances freshness and flavor.
- Ensure the pie is well chilled for the best slicing and serving experience.
