No-Bake Chocolate Cherry Pie

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If there’s one dessert that never fails to impress yet requires minimal effort, it’s this No-Bake Chocolate Cherry Pie. I’ve made it for everything from birthday dinners to casual Sunday treats, and it’s always the first thing to disappear. The combination of rich chocolate, juicy cherries, and a buttery graham cracker crust is simply irresistible.

What I love most about this pie is the way it balances decadence and ease. The luscious chocolate filling is smooth and silky, the cherries add a tart-sweet pop, and the crust brings that classic crunch we all crave. It’s one of those desserts that looks like you spent hours on it, but in reality, it’s all about smart shortcuts and bold flavors.

Why You’ll Love This No-Bake Chocolate Cherry Pie

This pie is pure chocolate-cherry bliss. You don’t need an oven, making it perfect for summer or when you just don’t want to bake. It sets up beautifully in the fridge, and every bite delivers layers of texture—from creamy to crunchy to juicy. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for an indulgent no-fuss dessert, this one’s a showstopper.

What Kind of Cherries Should I Use?

I recommend using jarred or canned sour cherries packed in water or light syrup—they hold up well and give that classic tartness. Fresh cherries work too, especially in season, but be sure to pit them. Sweet cherries can be used, though they’ll create a milder contrast with the rich chocolate.

Options for Substitutions

• Crust: Swap graham crackers with chocolate cookies or digestive biscuits for a richer base.
• Chocolate: Use dark, milk, or even dairy-free chocolate depending on your taste.
• Cherries: If cherries aren’t your thing, raspberries or strawberries pair wonderfully with chocolate too.
• Whipped Topping: Homemade whipped cream or dairy-free alternatives can top the pie beautifully.

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Ingredients for this No-Bake Chocolate Cherry Pie

• Graham cracker crumbs – These create the perfect buttery base for the crust, offering a sweet, crunchy contrast to the creamy filling.
• Unsalted butter – Melted butter binds the crumbs together and adds richness to the crust.
• Dark or semi-sweet chocolate – The star of the filling, providing deep, luxurious flavor that pairs beautifully with cherries.
• Heavy cream – Whipped and folded into the chocolate to create a smooth, mousse-like texture.
• Cream cheese – Adds tanginess and helps stabilize the filling without the need for gelatin.
• Powdered sugar – Lightly sweetens the filling without altering its smooth texture.
• Vanilla extract – Enhances the depth of flavor and rounds out the chocolate.
• Sour cherries – These bring tartness and juiciness, balancing the richness of the chocolate.
• Whipped cream – Optional, but adds a beautiful, creamy garnish on top.
• Chocolate shavings – For decoration and an extra layer of chocolate indulgence.

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Step 1: Make the Crust

Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl until evenly moistened. Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to smooth and pack the crust firmly. Place it in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Filling

In a heatproof bowl, melt the chocolate gently over a pot of simmering water or in the microwave using short bursts. Stir until smooth and glossy. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Blend Cream Cheese and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated and creamy. This mixture forms the base of the mousse-like filling.

Step 4: Whip the Cream

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture, then fold that into the cream cheese mixture. Be careful not to deflate the airiness.

Step 5: Add Cherries

Drain the sour cherries well and pat them dry with paper towels. Gently fold half of the cherries into the chocolate filling. The other half will be used for topping.

Step 6: Assemble the Pie

Pour the chocolate cherry filling into the prepared crust. Smooth the top with a spatula. Arrange the remaining cherries on top and lightly press them into the filling.

Step 7: Chill the Pie

Cover and refrigerate the pie for at least 6 hours, or overnight, until fully set. This step is crucial to allow the filling to firm up properly.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, top with whipped cream and sprinkle chocolate shavings over the top. Slice with a sharp knife and serve cold. Keep any leftovers refrigerated.

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How Long to Prepare the No-Bake Chocolate Cherry Pie

Preparation Time: The hands-on prep takes about 25 to 30 minutes. This includes making the crust, whipping the filling, and assembling the pie. Since it’s a no-bake dessert, you don’t need to worry about oven time, which makes it perfect for those days when you want something indulgent without heating up the kitchen.

Chilling Time: For the best texture and structure, the pie needs to chill for at least 6 hours—ideally overnight. This allows the filling to firm up and the flavors to fully meld. Don’t skip this step unless you prefer a softer, more mousse-like consistency.

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Tips for Perfect No-Bake Chocolate Cherry Pie

• Use quality chocolate – Since chocolate is the core flavor, use a good-quality dark or semi-sweet variety.
• Chill your bowl and beaters before whipping cream – This helps it whip up faster and hold peaks better.
• Don’t overmix the filling – Gently fold to keep it airy and light.
• Dry the cherries well before folding or topping – Excess moisture can make the pie runny.
• Use a springform pan if you want cleaner slices and an elegant presentation.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the chilling time – The pie won’t hold its shape if not properly set.
• Adding hot chocolate to cream cheese – Let it cool first to avoid curdling.
• Using watery cherries – Moisture ruins the texture. Always drain and pat them dry.
• Overwhipping cream – It can turn grainy and won’t fold well into the filling.
• Too much crust butter – This can make the base greasy and crumbly.

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What to Serve With No-Bake Chocolate Cherry Pie?

1. Fresh Brewed Coffee

The bitterness of coffee contrasts the sweetness of the pie and enhances the chocolate flavor.

2. Vanilla Ice Cream

A cold scoop of ice cream creates a perfect hot-cold dessert duo, especially for summer gatherings.

3. Sparkling Rosé or Cherry Wine

Light, bubbly drinks complement the cherry element and make it a grown-up treat.

4. Whipped Cream with Cocoa Powder Dusting

Add a fancy café-style twist with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa.

5. Dark Chocolate Covered Almonds

A small handful on the side adds crunch and ties into the chocolate theme beautifully.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Store the pie in the refrigerator covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days. Keep it chilled until ready to serve for the best texture.

Freezing: Yes, you can freeze this pie! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. The texture will be slightly softer but still delicious.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per Slice (1/10 of pie):

• Calories: ~420 kcal
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Sugar: 24g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 5g
• Sodium: 140mg
• Cholesterol: 65mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

What if I don’t have graham crackers?

You can substitute digestive biscuits, chocolate wafers, or even crushed pretzels for a salty-sweet twist.

Can I make this pie dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free chocolate, vegan butter, and a coconut cream whip instead of heavy cream and cream cheese.

How far ahead can I make it?

You can prepare the pie up to 2 days in advance. Just keep it covered and refrigerated until ready to serve.

Can I use frozen cherries?

Absolutely. Thaw and drain them well before using to prevent excess moisture.

Will the pie hold up at room temperature?

It will hold for about 1–2 hours, but it’s best served chilled to maintain its structure and flavor.

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Conclusion

This No-Bake Chocolate Cherry Pie brings together the richness of chocolate and the tart burst of cherries in a simple, elegant dessert that’s as easy to prepare as it is impressive to serve. Whether you’re treating yourself or bringing it to a party, it’s sure to be a standout hit. Remember to chill it thoroughly, use high-quality ingredients, and enjoy every creamy, crunchy, cherry-laced bite.

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