Introduction:
If you’re a fan of the classic combination of chocolate and cherries, then you’re in for a treat! This Chocolate Cherry Pie recipe is a delightful twist on the traditional fruit pie, combining rich, velvety chocolate with juicy, sweet cherries. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a comforting dessert, this recipe is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
- 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade, if preferred)
- 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it gently against the bottom and sides.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherries, semi-sweet chocolate chips, granulated sugar, flour, salt, and vanilla extract. Toss until the cherries and chocolate are evenly coated with the sugar and flour mixture.
- Pour the cherry-chocolate filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it out evenly.
- Roll out the second pie crust and cut it into strips. Create a lattice pattern over the filling by weaving the strips over and under each other. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal.
- Brush the top of the pie crust with the beaten egg wash, which will give it a beautiful golden brown finish when baked.
- Place the pie on a baking sheet (to catch any drips) and bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
- Optionally, dust the cooled pie with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness before serving.
- Slice and serve your Chocolate Cherry Pie on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!
Conclusion:
With its irresistible combination of rich chocolate and sweet cherries, this Chocolate Cherry Pie is sure to become a new favorite in your dessert repertoire. Whether you’re serving it up for a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a delicious homemade dessert, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. So go ahead, grab a slice, and indulge in the ultimate sweet sensation!
Serving Tips:
- Allow the Chocolate Cherry Pie to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This will help the filling set and make for cleaner slices.
- For an extra special presentation, dust the cooled pie with powdered sugar just before serving. This adds a touch of elegance and extra sweetness.
- Serve slices of the pie on individual plates, and consider adding a garnish of fresh cherries or a sprig of mint for a pop of color and freshness.
- Pair each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat that balances the richness of the chocolate and the sweetness of the cherries.
Storage Tips:
- If you have any leftover pie, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cover the pie tightly to prevent it from drying out.
- When reheating individual slices, place them on a microwave-safe plate and heat them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or until warmed through.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the entire pie by placing it in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed to your liking. Cover the pie loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the crust from burning.
- For longer-term storage, you can freeze the pie. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
- When ready to enjoy the frozen pie, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Then, reheat it following the instructions for reheating individual slices or the entire pie.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Chocolate Cherry Pie stays fresh and delicious, whether you’re enjoying it right away or saving some for later indulgence.
Q1: Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh ones for this Chocolate Cherry Pie recipe?
A1: Yes, you can substitute frozen cherries for fresh ones in this recipe. However, be sure to thaw and drain the cherries thoroughly before using them to prevent excess liquid from making the pie filling too runny.
Q2: Can I make the pie crust from scratch instead of using a pre-made one?
A2: Absolutely! While using a pre-made pie crust is convenient, you can definitely make your own homemade pie crust for this recipe. Simply follow your favorite pie crust recipe or try one of the many available online.
Q3: Can I use different types of chocolate for this pie?
A3: Yes, you can experiment with different types of chocolate to customize the flavor of your Chocolate Cherry Pie. While semi-sweet chocolate chips are used in this recipe for their balanced sweetness, you can also try using dark chocolate for a richer, more intense flavor or milk chocolate for a sweeter taste.
Q4: How do I prevent the pie crust from burning while baking?
A4: To prevent the pie crust from burning during baking, you can cover the edges of the crust with aluminum foil or a pie crust shield halfway through the baking time. This will help protect the delicate edges from over-browning while allowing the rest of the pie to bake to perfection.