Decadent Cherry Almond Mousse Pie
This Decadent Cherry Almond Mousse Pie is an exquisite dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate, cream cheese, and a hint of almond extract with a refreshing layer of maraschino cherries. Inspired by a delightful magazine article, this pie is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a stunning centerpiece for any gathering. With its creamy mousse texture and bursts of cherry freshness, this pie is perfect for celebrations, holidays, or simply to indulge in a sweet treat. It's sure to dazzle your guests and leave them asking for seconds!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
sweetened condensed milk
1 (14 ounce) can (divided)
unsweetened chocolate
1 ounce (square)
almond extract
1/2 teaspoon (divided)
already baked pie crust
1 (9-inch)
maraschino cherries
1 (10 ounce) jar (drained and chopped)
cream cheese
8 ounces (softened)
cold water
1 cup
instant vanilla pudding
1 (3 1/2 ounce) box
whipping cream
1 cup (whipped)
toasted almond
1/2 cup (chopped)
Instructions
1
In a small saucepan over low heat, combine 1/2 cup of the sweetened condensed milk and the unsweetened chocolate square. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and fully melted. Remove from heat and stir in 1/4 teaspoon of almond extract.
2
Pour the chocolate mixture evenly into the bottom of the pre-baked pie crust, spreading it to cover the base. Set aside to cool slightly.
3
Reserve 8 maraschino cherries for garnish. Chop the remaining cherries into small pieces and set aside.
4
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until it becomes fluffy and light.
5
Gradually add in the remaining 1/2 cup of sweetened condensed milk and the cold water, mixing until well combined.
6
Add the instant vanilla pudding mix and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon of almond extract to the cream cheese mixture. Mix thoroughly until smooth and thickened.
7
Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture until no white streaks remain.
8
Carefully stir in the chopped cherries and the toasted chopped almonds until evenly distributed.
9
Pour the mousse mixture over the chocolate layer in the pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
10
Cover and chill the pie in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until set.
11
Before serving, garnish the pie with the reserved whole cherries on top for an elegant finish.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Decadent Cherry Almond Mousse Pie?
It is an exquisite dessert that combines rich chocolate, cream cheese, and almond flavors with a refreshing layer of maraschino cherries in a creamy mousse texture.
What are the primary ingredients needed for this recipe?
You will need sweetened condensed milk, unsweetened chocolate, almond extract, a pre-baked pie crust, maraschino cherries, cream cheese, cold water, instant vanilla pudding, whipping cream, and toasted almonds.
How long does the pie need to chill?
The pie should be covered and chilled in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until it is completely set.
Do I need to bake the filling?
No, the filling is a no-bake mousse. Only the pie crust needs to be pre-baked before you begin the assembly.
How is the chocolate layer prepared?
Melt 1/2 cup of sweetened condensed milk and one ounce of unsweetened chocolate in a saucepan over low heat until smooth, then stir in 1/4 teaspoon of almond extract.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
While you can use fresh cherries, maraschino cherries provide a specific sweetness and color profile that defines this particular recipe.
What size pie crust is required?
The recipe calls for a 9-inch pre-baked pie crust.
How much almond extract is used in total?
A total of 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract is used, divided equally between the chocolate layer and the mousse mixture.
How should I prepare the cream cheese?
The cream cheese should be softened to room temperature and beaten with an electric mixer until it is light and fluffy.
What type of pudding mix is used for the mousse?
You should use one 3.5-ounce box of instant vanilla pudding mix.
How do I incorporate the whipped cream into the mixture?
Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding and cream cheese mixture until no white streaks remain to maintain the mousse texture.
How many cherries should be reserved for garnish?
Reserve 8 whole maraschino cherries to place on top of the finished pie for an elegant presentation.
What is the purpose of the cold water in the recipe?
The cold water is mixed with the remaining sweetened condensed milk and the instant pudding to help create the proper consistency for the mousse.
Can I substitute the almonds?
If you have an allergy, you can omit the almonds, though they provide a nice crunch and complement the almond extract in the filling.
How should I toast the almonds?
You can toast the chopped almonds in a dry pan over medium heat or in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for a few minutes until they are golden and fragrant.
What order do the layers go in?
The chocolate mixture is spread on the bottom of the crust first, followed by the cherry almond mousse mixture on top.
How should the maraschino cherries be prepared for the filling?
The cherries should be drained thoroughly and then chopped into small pieces before being stirred into the mousse.
Can I use a chocolate pie crust instead of a standard one?
Yes, a chocolate pastry or cookie crust would pair very well with the cherry and almond flavors.
Is this recipe suitable for holidays?
Yes, its stunning appearance and rich flavor make it a perfect centerpiece for holidays, celebrations, or special gatherings.
Should the whipping cream be whipped before adding it?
Yes, you must whip 1 cup of whipping cream before folding it into the pudding mixture.
What if I don't have an electric mixer?
While an electric mixer is recommended for fluffiness, you can use a whisk and some effort to beat the cream cheese and pudding.
Can I use almond milk instead of water?
The recipe specifically calls for cold water to mix with the pudding, but almond milk could potentially enhance the nut flavor if substituted.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover pie should be kept covered and refrigerated to maintain the stability of the mousse and the cream cheese.
Can I make this pie a day in advance?
Yes, making it a day ahead is ideal as it allows the mousse plenty of time to set firmly in the refrigerator.
How many servings does this pie provide?
A standard 9-inch pie typically provides 8 generous slices.
Does the chocolate layer need to be hot when adding the mousse?
No, you should set the chocolate layer aside to cool slightly before pouring the mousse mixture over it.
Is it okay to use frozen whipped topping?
While fresh whipped cream is recommended, you can substitute an equivalent amount of thawed frozen whipped topping if preferred.
What is the texture of the final dessert?
The pie features a dense chocolate base topped with a light, airy, and creamy mousse containing bits of fruit and nuts.
Can I add more chocolate?
Yes, you could garnish the top with chocolate shavings or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for extra decadence.
How do I ensure the mousse is smooth?
Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened and beaten until smooth before adding the other liquid ingredients to avoid lumps.