Name: Cherry Almond Mousse Pie Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 4 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk; 1 ounce unsweetened chocolate, chopped; 1/4 teaspoon almond extract; 1 frozen pie shell (9 inches), baked; 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk; 1 jar (10 ounces) maraschino cherries, drained; 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened; 1 cup cold water; 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix; 1/2 teaspoon almond extract; 1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped; 1/2 cup chopped toasted almonds; 8 whole maraschino cherries; Chopped chocolate (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 15 reviews

If you are craving a dessert that is both elegant and irresistibly delicious, the Cherry Almond Mousse Pie Recipe is a dream come true. This pie delivers a heavenly blend of creamy mousse infused with the sweet tang of maraschino cherries and the delightful crunch of toasted almonds, all nestled in a buttery baked pie shell. The touch of unsweetened chocolate combined with almond extract elevates the flavors, making every bite a luscious experience you will want to share with friends and family. Whether for a holiday gathering or a special weeknight treat, this pie brings warmth and joy with its perfect balance of textures and tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A pie with three visible layers sits on a white marbled surface: a golden-brown flaky crust forms the outer edge, holding a smooth dark brown chocolate layer inside, which is partially covered by a thick creamy layer with small red bits spread unevenly across it; a spatula with a wooden handle rests on top of the creamy layer, and next to the pie is a white bowl with some of the same creamy mixture inside, both placed on a white marbled texture photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple, straightforward ingredients is the secret to creating this stunning Cherry Almond Mousse Pie Recipe. Each element is thoughtfully chosen to contribute smoothness, sweetness, nutty crunch, or rich depth, coming together to deliver a dessert that feels both homemade and divine.

Sweetened condensed milk (1 can, 14 ounces): Adds creamy sweetness and luscious texture to the chocolate layer.
Unsweetened chocolate (1 ounce, chopped): Offers rich, deep cocoa flavor to balance the cherry’s brightness.
Almond extract (1/2 teaspoon, divided): Infuses the mousse with a delicate, nutty aroma that complements the almonds.
Frozen pie shell (9 inches, baked): Provides the perfect crisp, buttery base for your mousse masterpiece.
Maraschino cherries (1 jar, 10 ounces, drained): Bring vibrant color and sweet, fruity punch, essential to the pie’s character.
Cream cheese (1 package, 8 ounces, softened): Gives the mousse its creamy, tangy body and richness.
Cold water (1 cup): Used to lighten the cream cheese and pudding mixture for smoothness.
Instant vanilla pudding mix (1 package, 3.4 ounces): Thickens the mousse while adding subtle vanilla undertones.
Heavy whipping cream (1 cup, whipped): Whipped to fluffy perfection, it makes the mousse airy and light.
Chopped toasted almonds (1/2 cup): Introduce a wonderful crunch and nuttiness that contrast the mousse’s softness.
Chopped chocolate (optional): For an extra decorative touch and bursts of chocolate flavor on top.

How to Make Cherry Almond Mousse Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Base

Start by gently melting the unsweetened chocolate with half a cup of sweetened condensed milk in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir continuously until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture has thickened, which should take about four minutes. Then, add a quarter teaspoon of almond extract for that subtle nutty hint, and pour this decadent chocolate layer evenly into your baked pie shell. Set the pie shell aside to cool and let the chocolate layer set gently while you prepare the mousse topping.

Step 2: Chop and Set Aside Cherries

Next, carefully drain the maraschino cherries and reserve eight whole cherries for garnish. Chop the remaining cherries into small pieces; these will be folded into the mousse to provide bursts of sweet, juicy flavor throughout the pie.

Step 3: Make the Mousse

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it is light and fluffy — this step is essential to achieve the perfect mousse texture. Gradually add the cold water and the remaining sweetened condensed milk, mixing until smooth. Then, stir in the instant vanilla pudding mix along with the remaining quarter teaspoon of almond extract. This combination thickens the mousse while enhancing the flavor profile with hints of vanilla and almond. Finally, gently fold in the whipped heavy cream for airiness, followed by the chopped cherries and toasted almonds, which build in contrast and texture.

Step 4: Assemble and Chill

Pour the creamy cherry almond mousse over your set chocolate base, spreading it evenly for a picture-perfect finish. Cover the pie and chill it in the refrigerator for at least four hours, or until the mousse is fully set and holds a delicate, airy consistency. This chilling step is where the flavors meld beautifully into one irresistible pie.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, decorate the top with the reserved whole maraschino cherries and, if you like, sprinkle with some chopped chocolate for extra flair. The vibrant red cherries against the creamy surface make this pie simply stunning to present.

How to Serve Cherry Almond Mousse Pie Recipe

A round creamy pie sits in a white plate, resting on a white marbled surface. The pie has three main layers: the bottom layer is a golden-brown crust with a slight crumbly texture, the middle layer is a thick, pale cream filling with small red pieces mixed in, and the top layer is decorated with dark brown chocolate shavings scattered across the center. Bright red cherries with stems are placed evenly on top of the cream around the chocolate shavings, adding color contrast. The pie’s edges are slightly irregular, showing a homemade look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The magic of this dessert is in the details. Whole maraschino cherries scattered on top add a burst of color and a sweet finish in every bite, while a dusting of chopped chocolate or toasted almonds enhances appeal and texture. Fresh mint leaves also make a lovely, fragrant garnish that complements the almond and cherry flavors.

Side Dishes

This Cherry Almond Mousse Pie Recipe pairs perfectly with light accompaniments like crisp coffee or a mild cup of green tea, which cleanse the palate in between bites. For a festive touch, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of raspberry coulis to deepen the fruity notes.

Creative Ways to Present

Make your dessert table pop by serving individual slices in clear glass dessert dishes layered with extra toasted almonds and a few cherries on top. For a unique twist, turn this recipe into mini parfaits by layering the mousse, cherry bits, and crushed pie crust in jars — perfect for parties! No matter how you present it, this pie is sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once you’ve enjoyed this Cherry Almond Mousse Pie Recipe, wrap any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days, retaining its creamy texture and fresh flavors beautifully.

Freezing

If you want to prepare this pie in advance or save some for later, freezing is an option. Wrap the pie securely in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to one month. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator to maintain the mousse’s delicate texture.

Reheating

Since this is a chilled mousse pie, reheating is not recommended. Serve chilled straight from the refrigerator for the best texture and flavor experience. If you feel the pie is too firm from chilling, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to soften slightly.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Absolutely! Fresh cherries can make the pie even more vibrant and natural-tasting. Just be sure to pit and chop them well, and you might want to add a touch of sugar to balance their tartness.

Is there a way to make this pie dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute dairy-free cream cheese and use coconut whipping cream to keep the mousse creamy while accommodating dairy-free diets. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

Can I make this pie gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free Cherry Almond Mousse Pie Recipe, use a gluten-free pie shell. Many stores offer pre-made gluten-free crusts that work wonderfully in this recipe.

How long does the pie take to set before serving?

It is best to chill the pie for at least four hours, but overnight chilling gives the mousse the perfect firmness and flavor melding. Patience here truly pays off!

Can I prepare parts of the pie in advance?

Definitely! You can prepare the chocolate base a day ahead and chill it separately. The mousse can be whipped up the day you plan to serve, and then assembled with ease. This makes the process smoother and less rushed.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about making and sharing this Cherry Almond Mousse Pie Recipe. It’s simple enough to prepare on a busy weeknight but impressive enough for holiday celebrations or when you want to treat someone to a homemade delight. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a beloved favorite for so many. So go ahead, bake it, chill it, and enjoy every luscious, cherry-studded bite with those who matter most.