No-Bake Easy Cherry Chocolate Chip Pie

Introduction

On a hot summer day, there’s nothing better than a refreshing, sweet treat that doesn’t require turning on the oven. That’s exactly why this No-Bake Easy Cherry Chocolate Chip Pie has become a go-to in my kitchen. It’s quick to make, cool, and creamy—perfect for those days when you want a delightful dessert without the hassle. I first made this pie for a family gathering, and it was gone within minutes. The combination of tart cherry pie filling, smooth cream cheese, and mini chocolate chips creates a perfect balance of sweet and indulgent flavors that everyone loves. Whether it’s a summer party, a picnic, or just a casual weeknight dessert, this no-bake pie is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 pre-made graham cracker crust
• 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
• 1 cup mini chocolate chips
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy cream

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. This will form the base of your creamy filling.
• Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue beating until everything is well combined and smooth.

1. Whip the Cream:

• In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This will give the pie its light and fluffy texture.

1. Combine the Mixtures:

• Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream too much. You want the filling to stay light and airy.

1. Layer the Pie:

• Spread a layer of cherry pie filling on the bottom of the graham cracker crust. This adds a sweet and tart base that perfectly complements the creamy topping.
• Sprinkle half of the mini chocolate chips evenly over the cherry layer. The chocolate chips will add a nice little crunch and richness to the pie.
• Pour the cream cheese mixture over the chocolate chips and spread it out evenly.

1. Top the Pie:

• Spoon the remaining cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer, spreading it out gently.
• Sprinkle the rest of the mini chocolate chips on top for extra flavor and decoration.

1. Chill the Pie:

• Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or until set. This gives the flavors time to meld and the filling time to firm up.

1. Serve and Enjoy:

• Slice and serve chilled. This pie is perfect for a hot summer day or any time you need a quick and delicious dessert!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Serving Size: 1 slice (based on 8 servings per pie)
• Calories: 280 kcal
• Sugar: 21g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fat: 19g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 21g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredient choices and portion sizes.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chilling Time: 4 hours
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 slices

How to Serve

• As a Summer Dessert: This pie is perfect for warm weather. Serve it chilled at barbecues, picnics, or potlucks.
• With Whipped Cream: Top each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for extra indulgence.
• For Special Occasions: This pie is a great addition to holiday celebrations like the 4th of July, Memorial Day, or any family gathering.
• As a Snack: This pie is light enough to enjoy as an afternoon snack with a cup of iced tea or coffee.
• As a Dessert Bar: Cut the pie into smaller portions and serve as bite-sized squares for dessert bars at events.

Additional Tips

1. Chill the Pie Well: Make sure to let the pie chill for at least 4 hours, or even overnight. This ensures the filling firms up and holds together when you slice it.
2. Use Fresh Cherries (Optional): For a fresher, more natural taste, you can substitute the canned cherry pie filling with fresh cherries that have been sweetened and cooked down to a thick syrup.
3. Use High-Quality Cream Cheese: For the best flavor and texture, use full-fat cream cheese and avoid low-fat versions, which can affect the consistency of the pie.
4. Mix Up the Toppings: Instead of chocolate chips, try adding mini white chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for a twist on this dessert.
5. Use a Premade Crust: This recipe is all about simplicity. A store-bought graham cracker crust saves time and is perfectly suited for this no-bake pie. However, if you prefer homemade, you can always make your own crust.

Recipe Variations

1. Peach and Almond Pie: Replace the cherry pie filling with peach pie filling and sprinkle sliced almonds on top instead of chocolate chips for a different fruity flavor.
2. Raspberry Chocolate Chip Pie: Swap the cherry filling for raspberry pie filling and use semi-sweet chocolate chips for a slightly richer flavor.
3. S’mores No-Bake Pie: Use a graham cracker crust, but top with mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, and a drizzle of chocolate syrup to create a s’mores-inspired treat.
4. Tropical Paradise Pie: Replace the cherry filling with crushed pineapple and top with toasted coconut and macadamia nuts for a tropical twist.
5. Nutella Cherry Pie: Spread a thin layer of Nutella on the bottom of the crust before adding the cherry filling to create a chocolate-hazelnut base.

Serving Suggestions

• With Ice Cream: Serve a slice of this pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a cool and creamy treat.
• With Fruit Salad: Pair this pie with a fresh fruit salad for a lighter side to balance out the richness.
• With Hot Tea: Serve a slice of pie with a warm cup of tea to enjoy a relaxing afternoon.
• As Part of a Dessert Platter: Serve alongside other no-bake treats like chocolate mousse cups or mini cheesecakes for a dessert platter that will impress.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store the pie in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh.
• Freezing: While the pie is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Freeze it uncut, and wrap it in plastic wrap and foil. Let it thaw in the fridge for a few hours before serving.
• Individual Slices: You can also freeze individual slices for easy storage and portion control. Just wrap each slice tightly and freeze for up to a month.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen cherries instead of canned pie filling?

• Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess juice before using them in the pie.

1. Can I use a different crust?

• Yes, you can use a different type of crust like an Oreo crust or a chocolate graham cracker crust for a fun variation.

1. How can I make the filling firmer?

• If you find the filling is too soft, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the cream cheese mixture to help thicken it up.

1. Can I make this pie without heavy cream?

• Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with a can of whipped topping for a lighter version, though the texture will be different.

1. Can I add whipped cream on top of the pie?

• Yes, topping the pie with whipped cream just before serving would add an extra layer of creaminess and make it even more indulgent.

1. Can I use other fruits in place of cherries?

• Absolutely! You can use strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries to create a different flavor profile.

1. How long does it take for the pie to set?

• The pie needs to chill for at least 4 hours to set, but if you leave it overnight, it will be even better.

1. Can I use full-fat whipped topping instead of whipped cream?

• Yes, you can use whipped topping, but fresh whipped cream will give the pie a richer texture.

1. Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?

• Yes, you can easily double the recipe and use a larger pie dish or split it into two smaller dishes.

1. Can I freeze the pie?

• Yes, you can freeze the pie for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.

Conclusion

This No-Bake Easy Cherry Chocolate Chip Pie is a quick, delicious, and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, especially on hot summer days. Its creamy texture, crunchy graham cracker crust, and sweet cherries make it a favorite for both kids and adults. With minimal prep time and no need for an oven, this pie is sure to become a go-to in your dessert repertoire. Whether served at a family dinner, picnic, or casual get-together, it’s sure to be a hit!

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