Looking for the ultimate dessert to wow your guests or make your next family gathering unforgettable? Look no further than Cherry Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Pie. This indulgent and cool dessert combines the creamy richness of ice cream with the deliciousness of chocolate and the tartness of cherries, all nestled in a crunchy crust. Perfect for warm weather, birthdays, or any celebration, this pie is the sweet treat everyone will crave.

The best part about this pie is how simple it is to make, yet it feels luxurious. It requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. With a no-bake crust, smooth ice cream filling, and a scattering of chocolate chips and cherries on top, each bite is a heavenly combination of textures and flavors. Whether you’re serving it on a hot summer day or as a special dessert for a holiday or party, this ice cream pie will always be a crowd-pleaser. It’s versatile, too—feel free to experiment with different ice cream flavors or toppings based on your preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No-Bake: Easy to make, with minimal prep work required—perfect for when you don’t want to heat up the kitchen.
Delicious Layers: The combination of sweet, tart cherries and creamy ice cream with a crunchy chocolate chip crust is irresistible.
Customizable: You can choose your favorite ice cream flavors, toppings, and crust options to make this pie your own.
Make-Ahead: This pie can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the freezer, making it great for last-minute gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing: The vibrant colors and balanced flavors will appeal to everyone, from kids to adults, making it an ideal dessert for any event.

Ingredients

Graham cracker crumbs
Melted butter
Chocolate chips
Cherry ice cream
Vanilla ice cream
Maraschino cherries (or fresh cherries)
Whipped cream (optional)

Variations

Fruit Choices: Use other fruit flavors like strawberry or raspberry ice cream, or even a swirl of fresh fruit in the filling.
Nuts: Add chopped nuts like pecans, almonds, or walnuts to the crust for extra crunch.
Crust Options: Swap the graham cracker crust for an Oreo crust or a shortbread crust for different flavors.
Chocolate Fudge: Drizzle warm chocolate fudge sauce over the top for a richer taste.
Vegan Version: Make it vegan by using non-dairy ice cream and vegan butter for the crust.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and a few tablespoons of sugar. Press the mixture into the base of a pie dish to form a compact, even crust. Refrigerate the crust for at least 30 minutes to firm it up.

Step 2: Layer the Ice Cream

Allow the cherry and vanilla ice cream to soften slightly, making it easier to spread. First, layer the bottom of the crust with a generous layer of cherry ice cream. Smooth it out to cover the crust evenly. Next, add a layer of vanilla ice cream over the cherry layer.

Step 3: Add Chocolate Chips

Sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over the ice cream layers, pressing them lightly into the ice cream to ensure they stay in place.

Step 4: Freeze

Place the pie in the freezer and let it set for at least 4 hours or until the ice cream is firm and the pie holds its shape when sliced.

Step 5: Decorate and Serve

Before serving, top the pie with whipped cream, maraschino cherries, or fresh cherries for an extra touch of elegance. Slice and serve directly from the freezer for a refreshing, cool dessert.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Soften Ice Cream: Let the ice cream sit out for a few minutes to soften before spreading it into the pie crust. This will help it spread smoothly and layer more easily.
No Melted Ice Cream: Don’t leave the ice cream out too long to avoid it melting before you’re ready to assemble the pie.
Crust Pressing: When pressing the crust into the pan, use the back of a spoon or a flat surface to press it down evenly and tightly for the best texture.
Toppings: Get creative with toppings! Chocolate syrup, crushed nuts, or extra cherries can make the pie look even more appealing.

How to Serve

Serve the pie directly from the freezer to maintain its shape.
Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra creamy finish.
Pair the pie with a cold beverage, such as iced tea or milk, for a refreshing dessert experience.
For special occasions, serve slices of the pie on dessert plates with a few fresh cherries on the side for a lovely presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover pie slices in the freezer, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil. It will keep well for up to one week.

Freezing

This pie is perfect for freezing ahead of time. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to preserve its freshness, and it can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

This is an ice cream pie, so it doesn’t require reheating. Just let it sit out for a couple of minutes before serving if you want it to soften slightly for easier slicing.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different flavor of ice cream?

Yes, feel free to swap out the cherry and vanilla ice cream for other flavors like strawberry, chocolate, or mint.

2. How do I keep the crust from getting soggy?

Make sure to press the crust down firmly and chill it for at least 30 minutes before adding the ice cream. The ice cream also helps keep the crust intact.

3. Can I make the pie with a store-bought crust?

Yes, a pre-made graham cracker crust works just as well if you’re looking for a shortcut.

4. Can I add fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Yes, fresh cherries can be a great option. Just make sure to pit them before adding them to the pie.

5. How long does the pie need to freeze?

Allow the pie to freeze for at least 4 hours to make sure it’s firm enough to slice.

6. Can I use dairy-free ice cream for a vegan version?

Absolutely! Use non-dairy ice cream and vegan butter for the crust to make this recipe vegan-friendly.

7. Can I make this pie without a pie dish?

You can use a tart pan or even individual mini pie dishes for a fun presentation.

8. How can I make this pie more chocolatey?

Add more chocolate chips to the ice cream or drizzle chocolate syrup over the top of the pie before serving.

9. Can I add nuts to the ice cream?

Yes, you can fold in some chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, into the ice cream for added texture.

10. How do I slice the pie easily?

Let the pie sit at room temperature for a minute or two to soften slightly before slicing. This will make the cutting process smoother.

Conclusion

Cherry Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Pie is a perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and crunchy that will impress anyone who tries it. With its minimal prep time and make-ahead convenience, it’s an excellent choice for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, a holiday, or just a sunny afternoon, this ice cream pie is sure to be a hit. Its versatility allows you to mix and match flavors to suit your taste, making it a recipe you can return to time and time again. So, why not treat yourself and your loved ones to this deliciously cool dessert today?