3 Layer Cherry Pie
A delightful three-layer cherry pie featuring a crunchy nut crust, a creamy cheese filling, and fluffy whipped topping, perfect for gatherings and dessert lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix flour, chopped nuts, and oleo (margarine).
- Press the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch pan to form the crust.
- Bake the crust at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow the crust to cool completely.
- In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth.
- Fold in 1 1/2 cups of Cool Whip to the cream cheese mixture.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust.
- Top with additional Cool Whip or cherry topping as desired.
- Chill before serving for best results.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nut-free version, you can replace chopped nuts with crushed graham crackers or oats. To enhance flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt to the crust mixture. If you're short on time, store-bought pie crust can be used instead. Ensure your cream cheese is softened for easy blending, and you can substitute sour cream for a tangy twist in the filling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cherry pie chilled for a refreshing dessert, and consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added creaminess. It also pairs beautifully with Classic Coffee Cake for a delightful brunch spread. Garnish with fresh cherries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an elegant touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cherry pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain its texture, avoid freezing, as the crust may become soggy upon thawing. If you prefer it slightly warm, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 3 Layer Cherry Pie contains roughly 722 calories, with 11g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (22% of the Daily Value), iron (21% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries! Just make sure to pit and slice them before adding to the top. You may want to mix them with a bit of sugar to enhance their sweetness, especially if they are tart.
How can I make the crust more flavorful?
To add more flavor to the crust, consider incorporating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. You could also experiment with different nuts, such as pecans or almonds, for a unique taste.
Is it possible to make this pie dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use a non-dairy whipped topping. Just ensure all other ingredients are also dairy-free for a complete dairy-free cherry pie.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).