Cherry Cheese Dream Pie
A creamy, fruity cherry cheese pie layered with bananas and cherry filling, perfect for summer gatherings or a sweet treat that pleases a crowd.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice 1 to 2 bananas on cooled pie crusts.
- Mix softened cream cheese and sugar together, then fold in not quite 1/2 container Cool Whip.
- Spread this mixture over the sliced bananas on each pie.
- Top with 1/2 can cherry pie filling.
- Freeze at least 2 hours.
- Take out about 15 minutes before serving and cut.
- You may refreeze the remaining pies.
- Pies will stay good for about 4 days before the bananas turn dark.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing with sugar. If you want to reduce sweetness, adjust the sugar amount according to your taste. You can substitute the cherry pie filling with other fruit toppings like blueberry or strawberry for a different flavor profile. If desired, add a layer of crushed nuts or graham cracker crumbs for extra crunch.
Serving Suggestions
This pie is best served chilled, making it a refreshing dessert for warm days. Consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top for added indulgence. It also pairs beautifully with a slice of Banana Raisin Nut Loaf for a delightful dessert spread. Serve at gatherings or potlucks where it will surely impress guests.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pie slices in an airtight container in the freezer to maintain freshness. Allow them to thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. If you choose to refreeze, ensure that the pie is well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. Consume within 4 days for the best flavor and texture, especially to avoid darkening of the bananas.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Cheese Dream Pie contains roughly 242 calories, with 5g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (18% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (16% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (11% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 cherry pie filling?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries for a more natural flavor. Simply pit and slice the cherries, then toss them with a bit of sugar to enhance their sweetness before topping the pie. This will give your Cherry Cheese Dream Pie a fresher taste and a lovely texture.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free Cherry Cheese Dream Pie, use gluten-free pie crusts available in stores or make your own using gluten-free flour. Ensure that any other ingredients, like the cream cheese and sugar, are also certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
Is there a way to make this pie lower in calories?
You can reduce the calorie count by using light cream cheese and sugar substitutes. Additionally, using a reduced-fat version of Cool Whip can help lower the overall calories without sacrificing too much on taste. Opting for fewer bananas or smaller pie portions can also contribute to a lighter dessert.
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).