"Philly" Cherry Pie
A creamy cherry pie dessert with a graham cracker crust, featuring a rich cream cheese filling topped with sweet cherry pie filling, perfect for summer gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare Dream Whip as directed on the package.
- Set aside.
- Mix cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Add the prepared Dream Whip mixture to the cream cheese mixture and blend well.
- Pour the filling into the graham cracker crust.
- Refrigerate the pie to cool and set.
- Just before serving, top the pie with cherry pie filling.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese and use sugar substitutes. Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easier mixing. If you prefer a more intense cherry flavor, consider adding a splash of cherry juice to the filling. Ensure the pie is fully chilled before serving to achieve the best texture. This recipe is a delightful addition to any dessert spread, alongside dishes like Sausage Cheese Rolls.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pie chilled, and consider garnishing with whipped cream or chocolate shavings for added indulgence. It pairs exceptionally well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped topping. For a more festive touch, serve alongside coffee or tea, making it a perfect dessert for gatherings and special occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the crust's texture, avoid freezing the pie as the graham cracker crust may become soggy. If you plan to keep it longer, consider storing the filling separately and assembling it just before serving to ensure freshness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Philly" Cherry Pie contains roughly 206 calories, with 2g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% 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 use a different type of crust for this pie?
Yes, you can substitute the graham cracker crust with a traditional pie crust or a cookie crust, such as Oreos or Nilla wafers. Each option will provide a different flavor and texture, allowing you to customize the pie to your preference.
Is there a way to make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pie a day in advance. Just assemble the filling and crust, then refrigerate it. Add the cherry topping just before serving to keep it fresh and visually appealing.
What can I substitute for Dream Whip?
If you don't have Dream Whip, you can use whipped cream as a substitute. Simply whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. This will give you a similar light and fluffy texture in the pie filling.
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).