If you are searching for a dessert that perfectly combines the rich, indulgent flavors of chocolate with the bright, fruity burst of cherries, you have to try this Cherry Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Pie Recipe. It’s a luscious no-bake treat that’s as simple to make as it is delicious. Imagine a crisp chocolate cookie crust loaded with creamy cherry ice cream studded with chocolate chips, all topped off with fluffy whipped topping, a drizzle of chocolate syrup, and a few cherries to make it pop. This pie is the perfect way to cool down on a warm day or impress friends at your next gathering with a dessert that tastes like a dream and looks like a masterpiece.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing this Cherry Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Pie Recipe. Each component plays a vital role in delivering the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors.
- Chocolate cookie crumbs (1 1/2 cups): Using finely crushed chocolate cookies like Oreos creates a rich and sturdy crust that forms the perfect base.
- Unsalted butter (1/3 cup, melted): This binds the cookie crumbs together for a firm yet buttery crust consistency.
- Cherry ice cream or cherry vanilla ice cream (1 1/2 quarts, slightly softened): The star of the filling, providing that sweet cherry flavor with creamy smoothness.
- Mini chocolate chips (3/4 cup): Mixed into the ice cream for delightful chocolate bursts in every bite.
- Whipped topping (1 cup): Adds a light, airy, and creamy finish that complements the ice cream perfectly.
- Chocolate syrup or hot fudge sauce (1/4 cup): For drizzling on top, giving a decadent chocolate flair.
- Maraschino cherries or fresh cherries (1/4 cup): These bright red jewels on the top add color and that signature cherry tangy sweetness.
- Extra mini chocolate chips (2 tablespoons): Sprinkled on as garnish to enhance the chocolate presence and visual appeal.
How to Make Cherry Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cookie Crust
Start by mixing those finely crushed chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter in a medium bowl. Combine until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter — this mixture should hold together nicely when pressed. Press it firmly into a 9-inch pie plate, making sure to cover both the bottom and sides evenly for that perfect crust edge. Pop it in the freezer for 15 to 20 minutes until it firms up beautifully, forming a deliciously crunchy frame for your filling.
Step 2: Make the Cherry Chocolate Chip Filling
Next, take your softened cherry ice cream and gently fold in the mini chocolate chips until they’re well distributed. Avoid overmixing to keep the ice cream light and airy. Once mixed, spread this luscious filling evenly into the frozen crust, smoothing the surface with a spatula or the back of a spoon. Cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap, then freeze for at least 4 hours. This step is key for letting the filling set into a firm, sliceable pie that everyone will want a piece of.
Step 3: Add the Final Touches
After your pie has set completely, get ready for the fun part — the topping! Spread a generous layer of whipped topping all over the pie. Then drizzle the chocolate syrup or hot fudge sauce across the top in beautiful swirls. Sprinkle the garnish mini chocolate chips and arrange your maraschino or fresh cherries on top for that irresistible finishing touch. To serve, use a warm knife to make clean, perfect slices that showcase the pie’s beautiful layers.
How to Serve Cherry Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your Cherry Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Pie Recipe is where you can add that extra wow factor. Fresh cherries add a burst of color and freshness while a drizzle of chocolate syrup or fudge makes every slice look gourmet. Don’t forget the mini chocolate chips sprinkled on top for texture and that irresistible chocolate crunch.
Side Dishes
This pie is rich, so pairing it with light sides can balance the experience perfectly. Consider serving it alongside a fresh berry salad or a tangy citrus sorbet to cleanse the palate. If you want to keep everything indulgent, a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream on the side never fails!
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation is part of the fun with this Cherry Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Pie Recipe. Serve it on a beautiful glass cake stand to show off those layers. For individual servings, portion the pie into clear dessert cups topped with extra cherries and a mini chocolate chip sprinkle. You can even drizzle a bit of warm fudge to make each serving feel like a decadent treat crafted just for your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This pie keeps well when stored properly. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the freezer. Leftovers can remain deliciously fresh for up to 3 days, making it a great make-ahead dessert.
Freezing
The Cherry Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Pie Recipe is perfect for freezing. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn and absorb no off-flavors. When you’re ready to enjoy, transfer it from the freezer to the fridge for about 20 minutes before slicing to ensure clean cuts.
Reheating
Since this is an ice cream dessert, reheating isn’t recommended. Instead, allow it to soften slightly at room temperature or in the fridge before serving to maintain its perfect texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cherry ice cream for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade cherry ice cream will add a personal touch and freshness that is hard to beat. Just make sure it’s softened enough to fold in the chocolate chips smoothly.
What if I don’t have mini chocolate chips?
Regular chocolate chips work just fine; you can chop them into smaller pieces for similar texture and distribution in the pie.
Can this pie be made vegan or dairy-free?
Yes, by swapping standard ice cream, whipped toppings, and butter for dairy-free or vegan alternatives, you can create a dessert that fits these dietary needs without losing flavor.
How do I get clean slices when serving?
Dip your knife in warm water and wipe it dry before slicing to get neat, clean cuts through the frozen pie layers.
Is it possible to add nuts for extra crunch?
Definitely! Chopped nuts like pecans or almonds sprinkled on top or mixed into the crust can add a delightful crunch and extra depth of flavor.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a longtime ice cream lover or just looking for an exciting new dessert to wow your friends and family, this Cherry Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Pie Recipe is pure magic. It’s simple, fun to make, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that combines the best of chocolate and cherry in every bite. Trust me, once you try it, it will quickly become a favorite go-to recipe for summer celebrations or anytime you need a sweet escape.
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Cherry Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cherry Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Pie is a delightful no-bake dessert perfect for summer or any time you crave a cool treat. Featuring a rich chocolate cookie crumb crust filled with cherry ice cream mixed with mini chocolate chips, and topped with whipped cream, chocolate syrup, and cherries, this pie is easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (like Oreos, finely crushed)
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
- 1 1/2 quarts cherry ice cream or cherry vanilla ice cream, slightly softened
- 3/4 cup mini chocolate chips
For the topping:
- 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- 1/4 cup chocolate syrup or hot fudge sauce
- 1/4 cup maraschino cherries or fresh cherries
- 2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie plate to form the crust. Freeze the crust for 15–20 minutes to set.
- Make the filling: In a large bowl, fold the softened cherry ice cream together with the mini chocolate chips until evenly combined. Spread this mixture evenly into the frozen crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Cover tightly with plastic wrap to protect and freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm.
- Add the toppings and serve: Before serving, evenly spread the whipped topping over the ice cream filling. Drizzle with chocolate syrup or hot fudge sauce, sprinkle with extra mini chocolate chips, and scatter cherries on top for garnish. Using a warm knife, slice the pie to ensure clean cuts and serve immediately.
Notes
- You can use homemade or store-bought cherry ice cream depending on your preference.
- For added texture and flavor, sprinkle crushed chocolate cookies or chopped nuts over the top before serving.
- This pie can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored tightly covered in the freezer for convenience.
