If you’re looking for the ultimate dessert that blends sweet cherries with rich chocolate chips inside a perfectly flaky crust, this Cherry Chocolate Chip Pie is exactly what you need. It’s indulgent, eye-catching, and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday feast, family gathering, or just a cozy weekend treat, this pie is guaranteed to impress.
Unlike regular fruit pies, this recipe combines the tart juiciness of cherries with the creamy sweetness of chocolate, creating a flavor balance that keeps you coming back for another slice. Let’s dive into everything you need to know—from ingredients to baking tips, variations, nutrition, and expert FAQs.
🥧 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect Flavor Balance – Tart cherries meet melty chocolate chips.
- Easy to Make – No fancy techniques required.
- Customizable – Works with fresh, frozen, or canned cherries.
- Crowd-Pleaser – Great for parties, picnics, and holiday tables.
đź›’ Ingredients (With Expert Tips)
| Ingredient | Amount | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Pie crust (homemade or store-bought) | 1 | Base of the pie; buttery crust pairs beautifully with chocolate & cherries. |
| Pitted cherries (fresh, frozen, or canned in juice) | 2 cups | The star ingredient; use tart cherries for best flavor. |
| Semi-sweet chocolate chips | 1 cup | Rich but not overly sweet; balances the fruit. |
| Sugar | ¾ cup | Enhances sweetness; adjust depending on cherries’ tartness. |
| Cornstarch | 3 tbsp | Thickens the filling to prevent runny texture. |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp | Brightens the flavor and balances richness. |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | Adds depth and warmth. |
| Pinch of salt | — | Enhances chocolate flavor. |
| Egg wash (1 egg + 1 tbsp water) | — | Creates golden, glossy crust finish. |
👉 Pro Tip: If using canned cherries, drain them well to avoid excess liquid.
👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
- Roll out your pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish.
- Trim edges, leaving a slight overhang. Chill while making the filling.
2. Make the Cherry Mixture
- In a saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
- Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens (5–7 minutes).
- Stir in vanilla extract. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. Add Chocolate Chips
- Sprinkle half of the chocolate chips over the crust.
- Pour the cooled cherry filling on top.
- Add the remaining chocolate chips evenly.
4. Top & Seal
- Add a second crust or lattice design. Seal edges with a fork.
- Brush with egg wash for a golden finish.
5. Bake
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40–45 minutes until crust is golden and filling bubbles.
- Cool at least 2 hours before slicing (important for clean cuts).
🍴 Serving & Pairing Ideas
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
- Perfect with coffee, hot cocoa, or a glass of red wine.
🌟 Variations & Creative Twists
- Oreo Crust Version – Swap traditional crust for crushed Oreos + butter.
- Mini Pies – Make in muffin tins for individual servings.
- Vegan-Friendly – Use vegan chocolate chips + coconut oil crust.
- Frozen Dessert Twist – Freeze filling inside a cookie crust for a Cherry Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Pie.
🥗 Nutrition Facts (Per Slice – based on 8 slices)
- Calories: ~340
- Carbs: 47g
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 4g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 29g
👉 Lighter Version Tip: Use dark chocolate chips, reduce sugar by ¼, and choose a whole-wheat or nut-based crust.
âť“ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes! Thaw and drain them before cooking to avoid excess liquid.
Q2: How do I prevent a soggy crust?
Pre-bake (blind bake) the crust for 10 minutes before adding filling.
Q3: Can this pie be made ahead?
Absolutely—bake a day before, cover, and store at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Q4: Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, simply use a gluten-free pie crust mix or almond flour crust.
🔑 Final Tips for the Best Cherry Chocolate Chip Pie
- Always let the pie cool fully before slicing.
- Use tart cherries for the best flavor contrast.
- Don’t skip the pinch of salt—it enhances chocolate flavor.
- A lattice top not only looks stunning but also lets steam escape.
🌟 Conclusion
This Cherry Chocolate Chip Pie is more than just a dessert—it’s a perfect harmony of flavors that blends the natural sweetness of cherries with the indulgence of chocolate. Easy enough for beginners and impressive enough for special occasions, this recipe will become a new family favorite.
Serve it once, and you’ll find everyone asking for the recipe. 💖
