Cherry Cheese Pie Recipe

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If you love a dessert that’s both creamy and bursting with fruity goodness, this Cherry Cheese Pie Recipe is an absolute must-try. Every Thanksgiving, my family gathers around this delightful pie that pairs a luscious, lemon-kissed cream cheese filling with a buttery graham cracker crust and a generous topping of vibrant cherry pie filling. It’s a simple yet stunning way to add a splash of color and a burst of flavor to any table, guaranteed to bring smiles and requests for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Cherry Cheese Pie Recipe comes from a handful of simple but essential ingredients that each bring their own character to the dish’s rich flavor, smooth texture, and eye-catching appearance. Here’s what you’ll want on hand before you get started:

• Cream cheese (8 oz package, softened): This gives the filling its creamy, tangy base—softening it ensures no lumps in your filling.
• Sweetened condensed milk (14 oz can): Adds sweetness and a silky texture that perfectly balances the tang from the cream cheese and lemon.
• Fresh lemon juice (1/3 cup): Brightens the filling with a refreshing citrus note, keeping the pie light and lively.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances depth of flavor and rounds out the sharpness of the lemon and cheese.
• Graham cracker crust (9 oz): The buttery, slightly crunchy foundation that holds the pie together and adds a subtle sweetness.
• Cherry pie filling (21 oz can): Topping the pie with rich, glossy cherries makes each slice look as good as it tastes.

How to Make Cherry Cheese Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

Start by beating the softened cream cheese in a large bowl until it’s light and fluffy—this step is crucial to avoid any lumps in your filling. Slowly add the sweetened condensed milk, continuing to beat until the texture is smooth and creamy. Then, mix in the fresh lemon juice and vanilla extract thoroughly until well combined; this ensures the filling will firm up perfectly when chilled.

Step 2: Assemble the Pie Base

Pour the luscious cream cheese mixture into the ready-made graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly to create a smooth surface. This crust will provide a buttery contrast to the zesty filling, so make sure it’s packed nicely without any cracks or gaps.

Step 3: Chill the Pie

Place the pie in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours to let the filling set firmly. This chilling step is key to achieving that perfect sliceable texture and ensuring the flavors marry beautifully.

Step 4: Add the Cherry Topping

Once the filling is fully chilled and set, spoon the cherry pie filling on top. You might not need the entire can; add enough cherries to cover the pie generously and give it that iconic glossy, jewel-like finish that makes Cherry Cheese Pie Recipe so inviting.

Step 5: Final Chill Before Serving

Put the pie back into the fridge for a little while to let the cherries settle and the flavors combine just right. This final chill makes serving cleaner and the pie slices hold their shape beautifully.

How to Serve Cherry Cheese Pie Recipe

Garnishes

For extra sparkle, add a dollop of freshly whipped cream dusted lightly with cinnamon or a sprinkle of grated lemon zest right before serving. Fresh mint leaves also add a pop of green and a lovely aromatic contrast that elevates the entire experience.

Side Dishes

This pie pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or alongside a fresh fruit salad. Both sides add freshness and creaminess that complement the rich pie without overwhelming its bright cherry and lemon notes.

Creative Ways to Present

Fancy it up for a dinner party by making mini cherry cheese pies in individual tart shells. Alternatively, serve slices on pretty dessert plates with a drizzle of dark chocolate or a sprinkle of toasted almonds for textural fun.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any uneaten Cherry Cheese Pie Recipe covered tightly in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it perfect for preparing ahead or enjoying over a few days without losing any of its charm.

Freezing

You can freeze the pie, but for best results, freeze it without the cherry topping. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and add fresh cherry topping just before serving.

Reheating

Since this is a chilled pie, it’s best enjoyed cold straight from the fridge. Avoid reheating, which can alter the creamy texture and cause separation in the filling.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned cherry pie filling?

Absolutely! If you prefer fresh cherries, cook them down with a bit of sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch until thickened to mimic pie filling consistency. This adds a fresh, homemade twist to the Cherry Cheese Pie Recipe.

What if I don’t have a graham cracker crust?

No worries! You can make your own crust by crushing graham crackers or digestive biscuits and mixing them with melted butter and a touch of sugar, then pressing into your pie dish. Bake briefly to set it before adding the filling.

Can I substitute lemon juice with something else?

Lemon juice is key to that bright zing in the filling, but if you’re out, lime juice works well as a substitute. Avoid using bottled lemon juice as fresh juice has more vibrant flavor and aroma.

How firm should the filling be after chilling?

The filling should be firm enough to slice cleanly, but still soft and creamy—almost like a thick mousse. If it’s too soft, it may need a little more chilling time to set properly.

Is this recipe suitable for a beginner baker?

Definitely! The Cherry Cheese Pie Recipe is straightforward with no baking required, making it perfect for beginners or anyone looking for a quick yet impressive dessert to share.

Final Thoughts

This Cherry Cheese Pie Recipe is one of those delightful desserts that never fail to impress, whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple weekend treat. Its creamy texture, bright lemon flavor, and juicy cherry topping come together in perfect harmony, delivering smiles with every bite. I can’t wait for you to make it and share this little piece of joy with your family and friends!

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