Velvety Cherry Cream Cheese Pie
Indulge in the delightful layers of this Velvety Cherry Cream Cheese Pie, combining a smooth and creamy cheesecake filling with the vibrant sweetness of cherry pie filling. This no-bake dessert is perfect for any occasion, from summer barbecues to holiday gatherings. The buttery graham cracker crust provides a satisfying crunch, while the toasted almonds add a lovely nutty flavor and texture that beautifully complement the sweet cherries. Make ahead of time and impress your friends and family with this easy and delicious pie that’s sure to be the star of the dessert table!
8
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Graham cracker crust
1 (9-inch, store-bought or homemade)
Cream cheese
1 package (softened)
Eagle Brand Condensed Milk
1 can (sweetened)
Vanilla extract
1 teaspoon
ReaLemon juice
1/3 cup (freshly squeezed or bottled)
Cherry pie filling
1 can (chilled)
Toasted almonds
to taste (sliced)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until fluffy and smooth.
2
Gradually add the Eagle Brand Condensed Milk to the cream cheese, mixing thoroughly until combined.
3
Next, stir in the lemon juice and vanilla extract, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
4
Pour the creamy mixture into the prepared graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
5
Cover and refrigerate the pie for at least 3 hours or until it is fully set and firm to the touch.
6
Once the pie is set, remove it from the refrigerator and generously top it with chilled cherry pie filling.
7
Sprinkle sliced toasted almonds on top for added crunch and flavor just before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Velvety Cherry Cream Cheese Pie?
It is a smooth, no-bake dessert featuring a creamy cheesecake layer made with condensed milk and lemon juice, topped with cherry pie filling and toasted almonds in a graham cracker crust.
Is this a no-bake recipe?
Yes, this pie is entirely no-bake, though you may choose to toast the almond toppings separately.
How long does the pie need to chill?
The pie needs to be refrigerated for at least 3 hours or until it is fully set and firm to the touch.
Can I use a homemade graham cracker crust?
Yes, you can use either a 9-inch store-bought crust or a homemade one.
What type of cream cheese should I use?
Standard full-fat brick cream cheese is recommended for the best texture and firmness.
Do I need to soften the cream cheese?
Yes, softening the cream cheese is essential to ensure a fluffy and smooth mixture without lumps.
What is the role of lemon juice in this recipe?
The lemon juice reacts with the sweetened condensed milk to help thicken and set the filling without the need for baking.
Can I use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled?
Yes, you can use either freshly squeezed lemon juice or bottled ReaLemon juice.
How many servings does one pie provide?
This recipe typically yields 8 servings.
Can I substitute Eagle Brand Condensed Milk?
While the recipe specifies Eagle Brand, any high-quality sweetened condensed milk will work.
When should I add the cherry topping?
The chilled cherry pie filling should be added after the cream cheese layer has fully set in the refrigerator.
Why are the almonds toasted?
Toasting the almonds enhances their nutty flavor and provides a better crunch to contrast the creamy filling.
Can I make this pie a day in advance?
Yes, it is an excellent make-ahead dessert as it stores well in the refrigerator.
How should I store leftover pie?
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, to maintain freshness and texture.
Can I use a different fruit topping?
Absolutely; you can swap cherry filling for blueberry, strawberry, or raspberry pie filling.
Can I freeze this pie?
Freezing is not recommended as it may change the velvety texture of the cream cheese filling once thawed.
Is this recipe suitable for holidays?
Yes, its vibrant colors and rich flavor make it a perfect fit for holiday gatherings or summer barbecues.
How do I toast sliced almonds?
You can toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until golden brown.
Can I skip the vanilla extract?
You can, but the vanilla extract adds a depth of flavor that complements the sweetness of the milk.
Is this dessert very sweet?
It is a sweet treat, balanced by the tanginess of the cream cheese and lemon juice.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
You can, but the filling may be slightly less firm than if you used regular cream cheese.
What if the pie hasn't set after 3 hours?
Leave it in the refrigerator for a few more hours; humidity or the temperature of the ingredients can sometimes affect setting time.
Can I use a chocolate cookie crust instead?
Yes, a chocolate crust pairs very well with cherry and cream cheese flavors.
Do I need an electric mixer?
An electric mixer is highly recommended to achieve the necessary 'velvety' and fluffy texture for the filling.
Should the cherry filling be cold when added?
Yes, it is best to use chilled cherry pie filling so it doesn't warm up the set cream cheese layer.
Is the almond topping required?
No, the almonds are optional but recommended for added texture.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, simply use a gluten-free graham cracker crust as the other main ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How long will the pie stay fresh?
When kept refrigerated and covered, the pie will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days.
What is the texture of the filling?
The filling is dense, smooth, and velvety, similar to a dense no-bake cheesecake.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients to make two pies if you are serving a larger crowd.