Imagine biting into a slice of rich, silky chocolate layered over a bed of juicy cherries, all cradled in a buttery crust and crowned with a fluffy cloud of whipped cream. This Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie is as indulgent as it sounds—a no-bake dessert that manages to feel both nostalgic and totally gourmet. It’s perfect for warm weather entertaining, holiday spreads, or anytime you crave a luscious chocolate fix with a fruity twist.

Every bite combines tart cherry brightness with velvety chocolate mousse, finished with a creamy topping and a sprinkle of chocolate chips for that little crunch. What really sets this pie apart is the texture: soft and smooth on top with a juicy, jammy cherry layer underneath. It’s the kind of dessert that turns heads at the table.

What Kind of Crust Works Best for Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie?

For this layered beauty, a pre-baked buttery pie crust is ideal. You can use a homemade crust or a quality store-bought one. If you’re short on time, go for a ready-to-fill crust, but make sure it’s firm enough to hold up the juicy cherry layer and the creamy toppings without going soggy. A graham cracker crust also works if you’re aiming for something even more low-maintenance, but the classic pastry shell brings a flaky contrast that complements the soft cherry and chocolate layers wonderfully.

Ingredients for the Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie

Cherry Pie Filling: This forms the fruity base of the pie and delivers that iconic red cherry flavor. Use a thick canned version or make your own if you’re feeling extra fancy.

Chocolate Pudding Mix: The secret to a quick, smooth chocolate mousse layer. Opt for instant pudding for convenience.

Milk: Essential to prepare the pudding; cold whole milk yields the creamiest results.

Whipped Topping: Adds airy sweetness and contrast. You can use homemade whipped cream or store-bought whipped topping like Cool Whip.

Cream Cheese: This helps stabilize the chocolate layer, giving it body and richness.

Powdered Sugar: Balances the tang of cream cheese and adds a sweet finish.

Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the chocolate flavor and adds depth.

Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle on top for texture and extra chocolate indulgence.

Maraschino Cherries: For garnish and that pop of color and syrupy sweetness.

How To Make the Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

Start by pre-baking your pie crust according to package or recipe directions. Let it cool completely before adding any filling to prevent sogginess. If using a graham cracker crust, simply press into your pie dish and chill it for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Add the Cherry Layer

Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly into the bottom of the cooled crust. Spread it gently with a spatula so the surface is smooth and covers the entire base. This layer gives a juicy burst with every bite.

Step 3: Whip Up the Chocolate Cream Layer

In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. In another bowl, whisk the instant chocolate pudding mix with cold milk until thickened. Fold the pudding into the cream cheese mixture, then fold in half of the whipped topping until it becomes light and fluffy.

Step 4: Layer the Chocolate Filling

Spread the chocolate cream mixture carefully over the cherry layer. Use a spatula to create an even, thick layer that seals in the fruit and provides that decadent chocolate bite.

Step 5: Add the Whipped Topping

Top the pie with the remaining whipped topping, spreading it out gently to the edges. This adds a creamy, sweet finish and helps hold the toppings.

Step 6: Garnish and Chill

Garnish with maraschino cherries and a generous sprinkle of chocolate chips. Chill the pie in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours (or overnight) to set fully. Slice and serve cold for the best texture and flavor.

How to Serve and Store Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie

Serve this pie chilled for the ultimate creamy experience. Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water to slice through the layers cleanly, wiping the blade between cuts for perfect presentation. This dessert shines on its own, but if you’re feeling extra, a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a dollop of extra whipped cream makes it even more irresistible.

To store leftovers, cover the pie loosely with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days. Freezing isn’t ideal due to the whipped topping, but if you must, freeze the pie (without toppings) in an airtight container for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before garnishing and serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far ahead can I make this pie?

You can prepare the pie up to 24 hours in advance. This makes it perfect for holidays and gatherings since it needs time to set.

Can I use homemade cherry filling?

Absolutely! If you have the time, a homemade cherry compote with fresh or frozen cherries adds a beautifully deep flavor.

What type of chocolate pudding works best?

Instant pudding is best for speed and texture. Choose a high-quality chocolate or dark chocolate variety for richer flavor.

Can I substitute whipped topping with real whipped cream?

Yes, but make sure to whip your cream until stiff peaks form and stabilize it with a bit of powdered sugar if storing overnight.

How do I prevent a soggy crust?

Always let the pie crust cool completely before layering and try to use a thick cherry filling to minimize moisture.

Can this be made gluten-free?

It sure can. Just use a gluten-free pie crust and confirm all ingredients, like pudding mix and toppings, are gluten-free.

Want More Pie Ideas with a Twist?

If this Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie hits your sweet spot, you’ll love diving into more irresistible pie creations and fruity desserts like these:

No-Bake Easy Cherry Chocolate Chip Pie for a simple, fruity-chocolate treat.
Hot Fudge Pie if you’re craving a warm, gooey chocolate dessert.
Pineapple Cheese Pie for a tropical twist on classic pie.
Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding that layers creaminess and fruit just like this one.
Caramel Reeses Oreo Cheesecake for a richer, nuttier flavor combo.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with the graham crust or classic pastry? Top it with extra chocolate curls or keep it simple?

I love hearing how others bring their own twist to these desserts. Questions are welcome too—let’s swap ideas and make every bite better.

👉 For more daily dessert inspiration, follow along on my Pinterest @LifeWithNinaRecipes.

Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie

Author: Nina Johnson
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie is a no-bake dessert dream—layers of juicy cherry filling, creamy chocolate mousse, and fluffy whipped topping all in a buttery pie crust. It’s easy to make, visually stunning, and tastes like pure comfort with a gourmet touch. Perfect for gatherings, holidays, or anytime you want something fruity and rich in chocolate.

Instructions

1. Pre-bake your pie crust according to package or recipe directions and let it cool completely. For graham crust, press into a pie dish and chill for at least 30 minutes.

2. Spread the cherry pie filling evenly into the bottom of the cooled crust.

3. In a bowl, beat cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth.

4. In another bowl, whisk chocolate pudding mix with cold milk until thickened.

5. Fold pudding into the cream cheese mixture, then fold in half of the whipped topping.

6. Spread the chocolate cream layer over the cherry layer evenly.

7. Top with the remaining whipped topping and smooth it across the surface.

8. Garnish with maraschino cherries and chocolate chips.

9. Chill the pie for at least 3 hours or overnight before slicing and serving.