A decadent twist on a classic, this Black Forest Cherry Pie combines velvety chocolate cream, sweet cherry topping, and clouds of whipped cream in a flaky, golden pie crust. It’s the perfect dessert to impress guests or indulge in for a special occasion, offering a balance of rich chocolate and fruity brightness in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pie brings the best of two beloved desserts—Black Forest cake and cherry pie—into one unforgettable treat. It layers creamy chocolate filling with tangy cherry topping and finishes with luxurious whipped cream, all housed in a buttery crust. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or celebrating the holidays, this dessert is guaranteed to stand out.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Pie Crust:

1 single pie crust (homemade or pre-baked store-bought)

For the Chocolate Cream Filling:

1 dark chocolate bar (4 oz, 60% dark)
2 tbsp heavy cream
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/2 cup granulated sugar
3 tbsp extra dark cocoa powder
1/4 tsp salt
2 cups milk
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla paste

For the Cherry Topping:

8 oz cherries (fresh or frozen)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
3 tbsp water
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp vanilla paste or extract
Cornstarch slurry: 1 tbsp + 2 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water

For the Whipped Cream:

2 cups heavy whipping cream
2 tbsp powdered sugar

directions

1. Par-bake the crust:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place your pie crust in a dish, crimp the edges, and prick the bottom with a fork. Chill for 30–60 minutes. Line with parchment and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment, and continue baking for another 15 minutes or until golden. Let cool completely.

2. Prepare the chocolate filling:
In a small saucepan, warm the heavy cream until steaming. Remove from heat, add chopped chocolate, and stir until smooth and melted.
In a separate saucepan, combine cornstarch, sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually whisk in the milk and eggs over medium heat. Stir constantly for 8–10 minutes until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat while it still appears slightly liquid on top. Whisk until smooth, then mix in the vanilla and the chocolate mixture. Chill for 1 hour.

3. Make the cherry topping:
In a saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, water, and lemon juice. Simmer for 10–15 minutes until cherries are soft. Add the cornstarch slurry and stir until the topping thickens. Set aside to cool slightly.

4. Prepare the whipped cream:
Using a mixer, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Divide into two portions.

5. Finish chocolate filling:
Beat the chilled chocolate filling until light and fluffy. Gently fold in one portion of whipped cream with a spatula. Spread the mixture evenly into the cooled pie crust.

6. Assemble the pie:
Freeze the filled pie for 20 minutes. Spoon the slightly warm cherry topping over the chocolate layer. Freeze again for another 20 minutes to set. Then refrigerate the pie for 1–2 hours.

7. Top and serve:
Before serving, pipe or spoon the remaining whipped cream around the edges. Slice and enjoy.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: Approximately 2 hours
Total Time: 1 hour (active) + chilling
Servings: 8 slices
Calories: 375 kcal per serving

Variations

Boozy version: Add 1 tbsp of kirsch or cherry liqueur to the cherry topping for a more authentic Black Forest flavor.
Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free pie crust and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Vegan alternative: Use dairy-free whipped cream, plant-based milk, and a vegan chocolate bar. Substitute eggs with cornstarch or a plant-based thickener.
Double chocolate: Stir in chocolate chips to the chocolate cream layer for extra texture and richness.
Mini pies: Use mini tart pans to create individual servings for special occasions.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store the pie in the refrigerator, covered loosely with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 4 days.
Freezing: The pie can be frozen (without the whipped cream topping) for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before topping and serving.
Reheating: This pie is best served chilled or at room temperature. Avoid reheating, as it can affect the texture of the whipped cream and filling.

FAQs

What type of cherries should I use?

You can use fresh, frozen, or even jarred sour cherries. If using jarred, be sure to drain them well before cooking.

Can I use a store-bought chocolate pudding instead of making the filling?

While possible, homemade chocolate cream offers a richer flavor and better texture. Store-bought pudding may not hold its shape as well.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it up to 24 hours in advance. Add the whipped cream topping just before serving for best results.

Is it necessary to par-bake the crust?

Yes, par-baking ensures a crisp crust that won’t become soggy from the cream filling.

Can I skip the whipped cream?

Yes, but the whipped cream balances the richness of the chocolate and the tartness of the cherries.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark?

You can substitute milk chocolate, though it will result in a sweeter, less intense chocolate flavor.

How do I know when the chocolate filling is thick enough?

The filling should coat the back of a spoon and be slightly wobbly but not runny. It thickens further as it cools.

Can I use canned cherry pie filling?

You can, but the homemade cherry topping gives a fresher, more vibrant flavor.

How long should the pie chill before serving?

Allow at least 1–2 hours in the refrigerator after assembling so the layers can fully set.

What piping tip is best for decorating with whipped cream?

A star tip gives elegant swirls, but a simple round tip or spooning works just as well for a rustic finish.

Conclusion

Black Forest Cherry Pie is an exquisite dessert that marries deep chocolate flavor with bright cherries and airy whipped cream, all cradled in a buttery crust. With its elegant presentation and balanced flavors, it’s a perfect centerpiece for celebrations, holidays, or simply indulging in a sweet, satisfying treat.