Star Spangled Cherry Pie
A creamy cherry pie with a graham cracker crust, topped with sweet cherry filling, perfect for summer gatherings and dessert lovers craving fruity, indulgent treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Use a medium bowl.
- Beat the softened cream cheese until light and fluffy.
- Add the sweetened condensed milk and blend thoroughly.
- Stir in lemon juice and vanilla.
- Pour the mixture into the graham cracker crust.
- Chill for 2 to 3 hours.
- Top with cherry pie filling before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter filling, consider using low-fat cream cheese or a dairy-free alternative. If you're short on time, you can substitute homemade whipped cream for the cherry pie filling. To enhance flavor, add a pinch of almond extract to the cream cheese mixture. Remember to beat the cream cheese well for a smooth texture; lumps can ruin the pie's appearance.
Serving Suggestions
This Star Spangled Cherry Pie is perfect for summer barbecues or festive gatherings. Serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast. It pairs beautifully with Chilled Blueberry Cheese Dessert for a delightful dessert spread. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change after thawing. When ready to serve, simply slice and enjoy cold, or let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes for better flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Star Spangled Cherry Pie contains roughly 221 calories, with 3g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 6g fat.
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 pie filling?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries! Just pit and slice about 2 cups of fresh cherries, then cook them with sugar and cornstarch to create a thick filling. Allow it to cool before pouring over the cream cheese mixture.
Is it necessary to chill the pie before serving?
Chilling the pie for at least 2 to 3 hours is essential as it helps the filling set properly, making it easier to slice and serve. If you’re in a hurry, aim for at least 1 hour in the fridge.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! This pie can be made a day in advance. Just prepare it, chill it overnight, and add the cherry topping right before serving for the freshest taste.
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).