philadelphia cream cheese cherry pie recipe

Philadelphia Cream Cheese Cherry Pie: A Sweet and Tangy Delight

Philadelphia cream cheese cherry pie combines the creamy richness of cream cheese with the sweet-tart burst of cherries in a delightful dessert. This pie offers a unique twist on the classic cherry pie, thanks to the addition of cream cheese, creating a smooth and flavorful filling that complements the cherries perfectly. The result is a decadent yet refreshing pie that’s perfect for any occasion.

What Makes Philadelphia Cream Cheese Cherry Pie Special?

The key to this pie’s unique appeal lies in the cream cheese filling. Unlike traditional cherry pies that rely solely on cherries and a thickening agent, this version incorporates the tangy creaminess of Philadelphia cream cheese. This addition creates a smoother, richer texture and adds a subtle cheesecake-like flavor that elevates the pie to a whole new level. Cream cheese, as Wikipedia explains, is a soft, mild-tasting cheese with a high fat content, which contributes significantly to the pie’s decadent texture.

Recipe for Philadelphia Cream Cheese Cherry Pie

Here’s a basic recipe to guide you:

Ingredients:

• 1 (9-inch) pie crust, pre-baked
• 2 (8 ounce) packages Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
• 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• 1 (21 ounce) can cherry pie filling

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
3. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, mixing until well combined.
4. Stir in vanilla extract and almond extract (if using).
5. Pour the cream cheese mixture into the pre-baked pie crust.
6. Spoon the cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer, spreading it evenly.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and lightly golden.
8. Let the pie cool completely before refrigerating for at least 2 hours before serving.

Tips for a Perfect Pie

• Pre-bake the crust: This prevents a soggy bottom crust. You can blind bake it using pie weights or dried beans.
• Softened Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
• Cooling Time: Refrigerating the pie for at least 2 hours allows the filling to set properly, ensuring a clean slice.
• Variations: Feel free to add a crumb topping (made with butter, flour, and sugar) for added texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use a homemade cherry pie filling?

A: Yes, homemade cherry pie filling will work perfectly! Adjust the sugar and thickening agent according to your preference.

Q2: Can I freeze this pie?

A: Yes, you can freeze the pie after it has cooled completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Q3: What if I don’t have sweetened condensed milk?

A: While sweetened condensed milk is crucial to the recipe’s texture and sweetness, some alternatives with adjustments may work (e.g. using evaporated milk with added sugar), but results may vary.

Q4: Can I use a graham cracker crust?

A: Absolutely! A graham cracker crust can add a nice textural contrast to the creamy filling.

Q5: How can I prevent the crust from browning too quickly?

A: You can use a pie shield or aluminum foil to cover the edges of the crust during baking. Remove it during the last 10-15 minutes to allow the filling to brown.

Summary

Philadelphia cream cheese cherry pie offers a unique and delicious twist on a classic dessert. With its creamy, tangy filling and sweet cherry topping, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. By following the recipe and tips provided, you can create a perfect pie every time.