Dive into the delightful goodness of cherry cream cheese pie – a delicious combination of sweet cherries, tangy cream cheese, and a buttery graham cracker crust.

Cherry cream cheese pie has its roots in classic Americana cuisine. The origins of this pie are tough to trace, but it’s basically a spin-off of the traditional cherry pie. Creative bakers discovered it over the years while trying different ingredients and techniques, and I am glad they did!

This yummy cheesecake pie dessert has been a favorite in our family for generations, like many. My dad would always request it any time he got to pick the dessert, although he called it a Cherry-O Cream Cheese Pie, like his mom did. So, I fondly think of him anytime I make it!

What to serve with this cherry cream cheese pie

This luscious dessert pairs well with many meals and occasions. It’s the perfect ending to a summer barbecue or picnic, following a meal of grilled chicken, corn on the cob and lemonade.

You could serve it alongside a hearty pot roast or roasted chicken for a comforting family dinner. Alternatively, you could pair it with a light and crisp salad, like a mixed green salad or cucumber salad to balance the richness of the pie.

Similar to no bake cheesecake, it’s a perfect sweet treat enjoyed on its own for brunch, served with a hot cup of coffee or tea.

As with many pies, you can make it extra special with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a generous spoonful of whipped cream.

Kitchen equipment needed

Medium mixing bowl
Pie crust (optional)
9-inch pie plate (if you make your own crust)
Hand mixer

Ingredients needed to make cherry cream cheese pie

Here are the items to gather for making this cherry pie recipe, plus a bit about how each ingredient contributes to the delicious result.

Cherry Pie Filling: Provides a sweet, fruity base with a burst of cherry flavor.
Graham Cracker Pie Crust: Adds a buttery, crunchy texture that complements the creamy filling. Here’s my easy recipe for it!
Cream Cheese: Delivers a tangy, rich element that balances the sweetness of the cherries.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: Contributes a velvety texture and sweet flavor to the filling.
Lemon Juice: Brightens the flavors and adds a hint of citrus to the cream cheese mixture.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor and adds warmth to the filling.

Frequently asked questions about cherry cheese pie

Below are some common questions and answers about making this cream cheese pie recipe. If you have a question I haven’t covered, drop it in the comments section. I will be happy to respond as soon as I can.

What can you add to cherry pie filling to make it taste better?

To enhance the flavor of your cherry pie filling, you can add a pinch of cinnamon, a splash of almond extract or a tablespoon of lemon juice.

What spices enhance cherries?

Besides cinnamon, consider nutmeg, allspice and cardamom, which all pair nicely with cherries, adding warmth and depth of flavor.

What is cherry pie filling made of?

Cherry pie filling typically consists of pitted cherries, sugar, water, and a thickener such as cornstarch. Additional flavorings, like lemon juice or spices, can also be added.

Can I use a homemade graham cracker crust instead of a store-bought one?

Making a homemade graham cracker crust is a fantastic way to add a personal touch to your pie. It’s easier than you might think and won’t add much to your prep time.

How should I store leftover cream cheese cherry pie?

Store any pie leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Before serving, allow the pie to sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to ensure the best texture and flavor.

More Grandma-Approved Recipes to Try

If you enjoyed this recipe for cherry cream cheese pie, take a look at some of these other yummy recipes: