Easy Cream Cheese Cherry Pie Recipe
Looking for an irresistible treat to impress your family and friends? Our easy cream cheese cherry pie recipe is the perfect answer. This delightful dessert balances the creamy texture of cheesecake with the tartness of cherries and can be prepared in no time. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this pie is bound to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
As a child, I remember gathering around the kitchen with my cousins as my grandmother put the finishing touches on her beloved pie. The scent of graham crackers and sweet cherries filled the room, making our mouths water in anticipation. Though her version took hours, we’ve streamlined her classic recipe into something accessible for our busy lives today, without sacrificing any of the nostalgia or charm.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The appeal of this pie is in its simplicity and rich flavor. Quick to prepare, it requires minimal ingredients and results in a dessert that’s beautiful to look at and even better to taste. With its creamy filling and luscious cherry topping, the pie holds itself stable for slicing and serving at gatherings. It’s not overly sweet, allowing the natural flavors to shine, and it can be adjusted for any season by swapping the fruit topping.
Ingredients Notes
This recipe features pantry staples and accessible items. For the graham cracker crust, either store-bought or homemade will work wonderfully. For the filling, choose high-quality cream cheese, as it forms the base of your pie. The cherry topping can be canned or fresh—go with seasonal cherries if possible, or top with another favorite fruit for a twist. Don’t forget a dash of vanilla extract to enhance the flavors.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your graham cracker crust in a 9-inch pie pan. Press the mixture firmly and evenly across the bottom and the sides of the pan.
Step 2
In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. You can use a handheld mixer or a stand mixer for a lump-free texture. Spread this mixture evenly over the prepared crust.
Step 3
Bake the pie for about 10 minutes or until the edges are firm. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely to room temperature before chilling.
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Step 4
Once cooled, spread your chosen cherry topping generously over the cream cheese layer. For a glossy finish, select a fruit glaze that complements your topping.
Step 5
Refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours to set. This allows the flavors to meld and ensures clean slices upon serving. Serve chilled, straight from the refrigerator.
Storage Options
Leftovers of your cream cheese cherry pie can be securely stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, wrap individual slices and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and serve cold, or allow the slice to come to room temperature if you prefer a softer texture. Avoid microwaving to keep the crust crisp.
Variations & Substitutions
For a gluten-free option, utilize gluten-free graham crackers in your crust. To cater to a keto diet, a crust made from almond flour and a sugar substitute in the filling will work attractions. Swapping cherries with strawberries, blueberries, or a blend of mixed berries offers a delightful flavor twist.
Serving Suggestions
This delightful pie is a perfect dessert to cap off a summer barbecue or a cozy winter meal by the fireplace. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Its refreshing and balanced profile makes it suitable for brunches, teatime, or an elegant sweet course at dinner parties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pie ahead of time? Absolutely! This pie is perfect for making ahead and actually benefits from being made a day prior, allowing flavors to fully develop. Store it covered in the refrigerator, and add your fruit topping the day you intend to serve it for the best presentation.
Is there a non-dairy alternative for the cream cheese? Yes, numerous non-dairy cream cheese products are available that blend just as smoothly. Cashew cream cheese is a great alternative for those seeking to avoid dairy, without losing the richness of the filling.
What if I don’t have a pie pan? No worries! A similar-sized springform pan or even a tart pan can be used in lieu of a traditional pie pan. The walls of a springform pan help ensure the filling holds its shape, while a tart pan lends a more refined look with its fluted edges.
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Easy Cream Cheese Cherry Pie Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 8 oz Cool Whip thawed
- 1 9-inch graham cracker crust
- 21 oz cherry pie filling
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add sugar and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
- Fold in Cool Whip until the mixture is smooth.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly into the graham cracker crust.
- Top with cherry pie filling, spreading evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
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