Okay friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share a recipe that’s been the game-changer in my life. My desserts: my favorite. Cream Cheese Cherry Pie. If you love cherry pie but find it can be a little… one-note, you’re going to love it. What makes this creamy, tangy cream cheese layer so good? What is the most requested item at pretty much every family gathering? My grandmother always made the best cherry pie, but I think even she’d admit this cream cheese pie. What is cherry pie? The flavors are incredibly rich but it comes together surprisingly easily, even on a busy weeknight. What is your favorite cream cheese pie?
What is a cream cheese cherry pie?
What is a secret weapon in cherry pie? a luscious layer of cream cheese filling nestled right under the cherries. What’s the best of both worlds? What are some of the Best Cream Cheese recipes? The whole thing is baked to golden perfection in a flaky pie crust. I’ve played around with different versions of almond extract over the years, some with a coconut extract, and some without. What is your favorite lemon recipe? Is it so simple, but the results are seriously impressive? If you’re looking for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, this is it.
Why do I love this recipe?
Let’s be real, there are a million pie recipes out there, so what makes this one special? Well, for starters, the flavor is just incredible. You’ve got the sweet-tart cherries, that wonderful flaky crust, and then that incredible creamy, tangy filling that just ties it all together. But beyond the taste, what I love most about this cream cheese cherry pie is how easy it is to Make. It looks fancy, but trust me, it’s very forgiving. I’ve messed it up a few times (forgotten the sugar, anyone?), and it STILL turned out pretty darn good. And the cost? It’s way more budget-friendly than buying a fancy bakery pie. Plus, the versatility! You can serve it warm, chilled, with Ice Cream, whipped cream… the possibilities are endless! If you’re a fan of cheesecake and cherry pie, this is basically their delicious love child. Seriously, give it a try. You won’t regret it!
How do you make a Cream Cheese Cherry Pie?
Quick Overview
How do I make a Cream Cheese Cherry Pie? First, you’ll prepare the filling for your pie crust. Then, roll out your favorite crust and serve. Then, it’s all about layering and baking until golden brown and bubbly. What is the beauty of this recipe? I’ve got all the tips and tricks to help you nail it, even if you’re a baking newbie. What is the secret to a good pie? What is the reward of patience?
Ingredients
For the Crust:
* 1 box (14.1 ounces) refrigerated pie crusts, or your favorite homemade recipe. I always have a box of these on hand for quick pies.
What is the cream cheese filling?
* 8 ounces cream cheese, softened. Full-fat cream cheese is best for richness, but you could try a lower-fructose version if you prefer. * 1/2 cup granulated sugar. Adjust to taste if you prefer a sweeter filling. * 1 large egg. * 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract. Adds a lovely depth of flavor. I always use pure vanilla extract for the best results.
For the Cherry Filling:
* 1 (21 ounce) can cherry pie filling. Is it possible to make your own brand from scratch? * 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional). This complements the cherry flavor beautifully, but it’s totally optional.
How do I follow step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, grease a 9-inch pie plate. I like to use a little butter or cooking spray to prevent the crust from sticking. If you’re using a glass pie plate, reduce the oven temperature by 25°F. How do you prevent the bottom crust from burning?
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
Unroll one pie crust and gently place it in the prepared pie plate. How do I create a decorative border? How do you make indentations with a fork? If you are using store-bought crusts, you can skip this step.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Do not overmix. I always use an electric mixer for this, but you can also do it by hand. Just make sure the cream cheese is completely softened to avoid any lumps. Beat in the egg and Vanilla Extract until well combined. Do not overmix, as this can make the filling tough.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Spread the Cream Cheese filling evenly over the bottom of the pie crust. Then, spoon the cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer. If you’re using almond extract, drizzle it over the cherry filling at this point. How do you make a pie with extra layers of flavor?
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, you can cover the edges with foil. I usually check the pie after about 30 minutes and add foil if needed. You want the filling to be set but still slightly jiggly in the center. It will firm up as it cools.
Step 6: Cool Completely
Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. This is important because the filling will continue to set as it cools. If you try to slice it while it’s still warm, it will be runny. I usually let it cool for at least 2 hours, or even overnight in the refrigerator.
Step 7: Serve
Slice and serve the Cream Cheese Cherry Pie. Enjoy it as is, or top with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla Ice Cream. It’s also delicious with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. My favorite way to serve it is slightly chilled, with a dollop of homemade whipped cream and a few fresh cherries on top.
What should I serve it with?
What are some ideas for a Cream Cheese cherry pie? What is your serving experience?
For Breakfast:Serve a slice with latte or coffee. What is a good breakfast treat? I usually have a sliver of coffee in the morning. I like it. What is a good start to the weekend?
For Brunch:What’s a good way to serve this with fresh fruit? The bright flavors of the pie complement other brunch items perfectly. What is the perfect centerpiece for a brunch?
As Dessert: Top it with a scoop of vanilla Ice Cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of cinnamon also adds a nice touch. After dinner, there’s nothing quite like a slice of this pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
For Cozy Snacks:What is the best comfort food for a cold evening? I love curling up with a slice of this pie and good books on saturday. What is a cozy snack?
My family tradition is to serve it with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream and sprig of chopped walnuts. What is a simple but delicious combination?
What are some Tips for perfecting a Cream Cheese Cherry Pie?
What are some of the best ways to make a Cream Cheese Cherry Pie?
Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is completely softened before mixing it with the sugar. This will ensure a smooth and creamy filling. I usually take it out of the refrigerator about an hour before I start baking.
Mixing Advice:Don’t overmix cream cheese filling. Overmixing can make it tough. I always use a light hand when mixing the filling.
Crust Tips:If you’re using store-bought pie crust, make sure it’s not too thick. If you have a thick crust, it can be difficult to bake evenly. I usually roll it out a little thinner before placing it in the pie plate.
Filling Alternatives: Feel free to substitute other fruit fillings for the cherry pie filling. Blueberry, apple, or peach would all be delicious. I’ve even tried it with mixed berries, and it was amazing!
Baking Tips: If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover the edges with foil. This will prevent it from burning. I always keep a close eye on the pie while it’s baking, and add foil if needed.
What are some ways to add flavor toAdd a pinch of lemon zest to the cream cheese. For bolder flavor, add 1 tablespoon of lime juice and 1 teaspoon of orange zest. Can you make a splash of amaretto liqueur?
One time, I accidentally used salted butter instead of unsalted in the crust. My family loved the pie, but it had a salty flavor. I made it again today. So don’t be afraid to experiment and make your own.
Storing and Reheating Tips
How do you store and reheat Cream Cheese Cherry Pie?
Room Temperature: RoomCan you store a pie at room temperature for up to 2 hours? After that, it’s best to refrigerate it.
Refrigerator Storage: What Store the pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help keep the crust from getting soggy.
Freezer Instructions: You can freeze the pie for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Adding Glaze Timing: I recommend adding any glaze or topping just before serving to prevent it from getting soggy during storage.
I once made a big batch of these pies for a party and froze half of them. They tasted just as good as the fresh ones when I thawed them out!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Cream Cheese Cherry Pie recipe a try! It’s a real showstopper, and it always disappears in minutes whenever I make it. The combination of the sweet cherries, creamy filling, and flaky crust is simply irresistible. If you’re a fan of this recipe, you might also enjoy my Classic Apple Pie or my Lemon Meringue Pie. They’re both family favorites! Happy baking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Please feel free to leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And if you try any variations, be sure to share them with me!
How to Make the Best Cream Cheese Cherry Pie in 7 Simple Steps
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounce Cream cheese softened
- 14 ounce Sweetened condensed milk
- 0.33 cup Lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 21 ounce Cherry pie filling
- 1 crust Graham cracker crust 9-inch
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese, mixing until well combined.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture into the graham cracker crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Top with cherry pie filling before serving.
