Description
Chocolate Cherry Pie is a delightful dessert that features a chocolate-infused crust and a luscious cherry filling, often enhanced with cocoa powder and chocolate chips. The combination of flavors creates a perfect balance between tart and sweet, making it a favorite among dessert lovers. This pie is typically served with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream to elevate its richness.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
- 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour: Provides structure and stability to the crust.
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder: Adds a rich chocolate flavor.
- 1 tablespoon sugar: Balances the bitterness of the cocoa powder.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
- ½ cup (115g) cold unsalted butter, cubed: Ensures a flaky and tender crust.
- 4–6 tablespoons ice water: Helps bind the dough together.
For the Filling:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen pitted cherries: The star of the recipe; choose ripe cherries for maximum flavor.
- ¾ cup sugar: Adjust based on the sweetness of your cherries.
- ¼ cup cornstarch: Thickens the filling and prevents it from becoming runny.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth and enhances the cherry flavor.
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder: Complements the cherries and adds a chocolatey touch.
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melts into the filling, making it irresistibly rich.
For Topping:
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (optional): A perfect finishing touch for serving.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt.
- Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Make the Filling
- In a medium saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and cocoa powder.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and bubbles (about 5–10 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and chocolate chips. Let the filling cool completely.
3. Assemble the Pie
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to fit your pie pan. Place the dough in the pan and trim the edges.
- Pour the cherry filling into the crust.
- Optionally, use leftover dough to create lattice strips or decorative shapes for the top.
4. Bake the Pie
- Bake the pie for 40–45 minutes, or until the crust is firm and slightly browned.
- Let the pie cool completely before serving to allow the filling to set.
5. Serve
- Slice the pie and serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Notes
Top it off with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. For extra texture, sprinkle some chopped toasted almonds or drizzle with melted dark chocolate before serving. Perfect for holidays or any time you’re craving a rich, fruity dessert!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Chocolate Cherry Pie