French Cherry Pie
A creamy, no-bake cherry pie featuring a smooth vanilla pudding filling topped with vibrant cherry pie filling. Perfect for a quick, delightful dessert that combines the sweet tartness of cherries with the rich vanilla flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings and summer celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cold milk, sour cream, and almond extract in a bowl.
- Add the instant French vanilla pudding mix.
- Slowly beat until well blended, about 1 minute.
- Pour the mixture into the baked pie shell or graham cracker crust.
- Chill for at least 2 hours.
- After cutting the chilled pie into wedges, spoon cherry pie filling over each serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using whole milk instead of cold milk. If you don't have almond extract, a splash of vanilla can work as a substitute. To enhance the taste, add a pinch of cinnamon to the pudding mixture. Make sure to chill the pie for at least two hours to allow it to set properly. This pie pairs beautifully with Kahlua Mousse for dessert lovers.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the pie into wedges and serve with a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent touch. This dessert goes well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a side of fresh fruit. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside No Name Pie for a delightful dessert spread at gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing the pie, as the texture of the filling may change after thawing. Simply serve cold directly from the fridge for a refreshing treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of French Cherry Pie contains roughly 201 calories, with 8g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value), calcium (15% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (10% of the Daily Value).
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 make this pie in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this pie a day ahead. Just make sure to keep it chilled in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld and the filling to set properly, making it even more delicious when served.
What can I use instead of cherry pie filling?
If you prefer a different fruit, you can substitute cherry pie filling with blueberry, strawberry, or even mixed berry pie filling. Just ensure that the fruit complements the flavors of the French vanilla pudding and almond extract.
Is it necessary to use a baked pie shell?
While a baked pie shell is recommended for its crisp texture, you can also use a store-bought graham cracker crust for a no-bake version. This adds a different flavor profile and can be a quicker option for busy days.
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).