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    Gastronotherapy » Recipes » Chocolate

    (No-Bake) Black Forest Pie

    Published: Jul 29, 2021 · Modified: Feb 4, 2023 by MaryAnne · 15 Comments

    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

    This no-bake black forest pie is both easy to make and beautiful enough to wow your guests. A chocolate cookie crust is topped with a layer of creamy chocolate ganache, homemade cherry filling, and fresh whipped cream. It's chocolate-covered cherries in pie form, and ready in 40 minutes!

    black forest pie in pie pan with cup of cherries and forks in the background.

    I love the combination of cherries and chocolate. And although I love black forest cake, I don't want to spend all that time making an elaborate layer cake for just me and my husband to eat.

    However, I do love a good no-bake pie that is easy to assemble and beautiful enough to be a showstopper, like my no bake chocolate pie. This black forest pie recipe checks all the boxes.

    It may look like a lot of work, but I promise you it's very doable - you can even make the cherry filling up to two days ahead of time!

    Jump to:
    • ⭐️ Why This Recipe Works
    • 🍒 Ingredient Notes
    • 📝 Variations & Substitutions
    • 🔪 How To Make Black Forest Pie
    • 👩🏼‍🍳 Expert Tips
    • 💬 Frequently Asked Questions
    • 🥧 More Pie Recipes
    • (No-Bake) Black Forest Pie Recipe

    ⭐️ Why This Recipe Works

    • Rich, chocolatey, and fruity. The crunchy chocolate cookie crust is topped with a thin layer of chocolate ganache. Thick homemade cherry filling - with a splash of Kirsch (cherry liqueur) to intensify the flavor - is spread on top of the ganache, and fresh whipped cream finishes it off.
    • No-bake pie that is easy to assemble, ready in 40 minutes, and beautiful enough to be a showstopper.
    • Crunchy, silky, and creamy chocolate-cherry dessert
    • A delicious (and elegant-looking) summer pie
    • Make ahead options for convenience

    🍒 Ingredient Notes

    pie ingredients arranged on a table.
    • Chocolate wafer cookies - I used Oreos (don't miss my creamy Oreo dip!) for this recipe, but you can use any brand of chocolate wafer cookies.
    • Kirsch or brandy (optional) - This is completely optional. It doesn't make the cherry filling taste boozy at all, but it' not a necessary ingredient - it simply intensifies the cherry flavor.
    • Vanilla and almond extracts - Adds warm and rich flavor.
    • Powdered sugar - Using powdered sugar (as opposed to granulated sugar) in your whipped cream ensures a smooth texture.
    Black forest pie topped with fresh cherries and chocolate chips.

    📝 Variations & Substitutions

    • Semi-sweet chocolate chips can be used in place of the dark chocolate.
    • Use frozen (pitted) cherries in place of fresh cherries for convenience.
    • Make vegan/dairy-free: It will taste a bit different, but it can easily be done! I recommend using vegan butter for the crust, and coconut cream for the ganache and whipped cream (or buy vegan whipped cream for convenience).
    • Make gluten-free: Substitute gluten-free chocolate wafer cookies to make the crust.
    • Quick version: If you are short on time, go ahead and use a (pre-made) chocolate cookie pie crust, frozen (pitted) cherries or one (21-oz.) can of cherry pie filling, and one container of Cool Whip. It won't taste nearly as fresh, but it will still be delicious!
    • Use a regular pie crust. It won't be as chocolaty, but will still be delicious!
    • Omit the booze. The liqueur heightens the cherry flavor without making it taste boozy. However, if you prefer to make the filling without any alcohol it will be just as delicious!

    🔪 How To Make Black Forest Pie

    Make Cookie Crust

    Place cookies into the bowl of a food processor and pulse until crumbs are formed. Add melted butter and salt, and mix until thoroughly combined.

    Transfer mixture into a 9" pie pan and press into pan using the back of a ¼ measuring cup or using your fingers. Place in the refrigerator to chill for 10 minutes.

    White hand pressing measuring cup into chocolate cookie crust in a pie pan.

    Make Chocolate Ganache

    In a small saucepan, add heavy cream and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Remove from heat and add dark chocolate and salt. Let mixture sit for 2 minutes while chocolate melts, then whisk until completely combined.

    Pour ganache on top of cookie crust and spread evenly. Chill in the refrigerator while you make the cherry filling.

    White hand spreading chocolate ganache onto cookie crust.

    Make Cherry Filling

    In a medium saucepan, add all of the cherry filling ingredients. Cook on medium-high, until the cherries soften and mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. Set aside and cool to room temperature.

    homemade cherry filling in a pot.

    Make Whipped Cream

    Using the whisk attachment on a stand mixer, (or using an electric hand mixer), add heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract to bowl. Beat on high for around 5 minutes, until stiff peaks are formed. Set aside.

    Assemble Pie

    Add cooled cherry filling to (chilled) pie crust and spread evenly over ganache. Use a rubber spatula to place whipped cream on top of cherry filling. Spread evenly, leaving a one-inch border.

    cherry filling spread on top of chocolate cookie crust.

    If using garnishes, add chocolate chips and cherries on top. Serve immediately or chill in refrigerator until ready to serve.

    👩🏼‍🍳 Expert Tips

    • If you don't have a cherry pitter (I definitely don't!), then try this hack using chopsticks and a wine bottle to pit your cherries. It works like a charm!
    • Make a double batch of the cherry filling. (Omit the booze if you like) and use it as a delicious spread on your morning toast, overnight oats, granola, or as an ice cream topper. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or in the freezer for up to 2 months.
    • Make ahead: Prepare the cookie crust and cherry filling up to 48 hours ahead of time and store separately in the refrigerator.
    • Don't skip the chocolate ganache. Not only does this add more rich chocolate flavor, but it also protects our cookie crust from getting soggy.
    • Storage: Store in the refrigerator (covered) for up to 5 days.
    • How to freeze: Freeze individual slices by wrapping them in foil first and then placing in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
    • If you don't have a food processor: Place chocolate cookies in a large freezer bag and crush with a rolling pin. Transfer crumbs to a medium-sized bowl, and stir in melted butter and salt until well combined.
    black forest pie with pie server on the side and cup of cherries on table.

    💬 Frequently Asked Questions

    What is a black forest pie?

    It is a pie consisting of chocolate, cherries, and whipped cream. It also typically includes cherry liqueur (Kirsch), which gives Black Forest cake and pie a distinctive cherry (and slightly boozy) flavor.

    How do you make a chocolate crust?

    Making a chocolate crust is quick and easy. In this recipe, we place chocolate wafer cookies, melted butter, and salt into a food processor and pulse until well combined. It's pressed into a 9" pie pan and chilled in the refrigerator for 10 minutes.

    🥧 More Pie Recipes

    • apricot gluten free galette on a baking sheet with one piece cut
      Apricot Gluten Free Galette
    • vegan fruit tart with kiwi and berries on a platter
      Vegan Fruit Tart
    • chocolate cream pie placed on a table with a pie server and napkin.
      No Bake Chocolate Pie
    • healthy peach crisp in a baking dish with three scoops of ice cream.
      Healthy Peach Crisp

    Tried this recipe? Please leave a star ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating below and/or a review in the comments section further down the page. You can also stay in touch with us through social media by following us on Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook.

    Subscribe to my email newsletter to get my FREE Guide on Money Saving Tips on Buying Groceries, and get new recipes delivered to your inbox!

    black forest pie in a pan with two forks in background.

    (No-Bake) Black Forest Pie Recipe

    Author: MaryAnne
    This black forest pie is both easy to make and beautiful enough to wow your guests. A chocolate cookie crust is topped with a layer of creamy chocolate ganache, homemade cherry filling, and fresh whipped cream. It's chocolate-covered cherries in pie form!
    5 from 9 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 30 minutes mins
    Cook Time 10 minutes mins
    Total Time 40 minutes mins
    Course Dessert
    Cuisine American, German
    Servings 10 slices
    Calories 623 kcal

    Ingredients
      

    For the Chocolate Cookie Crust

    • 2 ½ cups chocolate wafer cookies (around 2 sleeves of Oreos with filling removed)
    • 8 Tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
    • pinch of salt

    For the Chocolate Ganache

    • ½ cup heavy cream
    • 7 ounces dark chocolate, chopped (60% or higher)
    • pinch of salt

    For the Cherry Filling

    • 2 pounds pitted cherries (about 4 ½ cups)
    • ¼ cup granulated sugar
    • 3 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice
    • ¼ cup kirsch or brandy
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 1 teaspoon almond extract
    • ½ teaspoon salt
    • 2 Tablespoons cornstarch

    For the Whipped Cream

    • 1 cup heavy cream
    • 1 Tablespoon powdered sugar
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • chocolate chips (garnish)
    • fresh cherries (garnish)

    Instructions
     

    Make Cookie Crust

    • Place cookies into the bowl of a food processor and pulse until crumbs are formed. Add melted butter and salt, and mix until thoroughly combined.
    • Transfer mixture into a 9" pie pan and press into pan using the back of a ¼ measuring cup or using your fingers. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes.

    Make Chocolate Ganache

    • In a small saucepan, add heavy cream and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Remove from heat and add dark chocolate and salt. Let mixture sit for 2 minutes while chocolate melts, then whisk until completely combined.
    • Pour ganache on top of cookie crust and spread evenly. Chill in the refrigerator while you make the cherry filling.

    Make Cherry Filling

    • In a medium saucepan, add all of the cherry filling ingredients. Cook on medium-high, until the cherries soften and mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. Set aside and cool to room temperature.

    Make Whipped Cream

    • Using the whisk attachment on a stand mixer, (or using an electric hand mixer), add heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract to bowl. Beat on high for around 5 minutes, until stiff peaks are formed. Set aside.

    Assemble Pie

    • Add cooled cherry filling to (chilled) pie crust and spread evenly over ganache. Use a rubber spatula to place whipped cream on top of cherry filling. Spread evenly, leaving a one-inch border.
    • If using garnishes, add chocolate chips and cherries on top. Serve immediately or chill in refrigerator until ready to serve.

    Notes

    • If you don't have a cherry pitter (I definitely don't!), then try this hack using chopsticks and a wine bottle to pit your cherries. It works like a charm!
    • Make a double batch of the cherry filling. (Omit the booze if you like) and use it as a delicious spread on your morning toast or as an ice cream topper. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or in the freezer for up to 2 months.
    • Make ahead: Prepare the cookie crust and cherry filling up to 48 hours ahead of time and store separately in the refrigerator.
    • Don't skip the chocolate ganache. Not only does this add more rich chocolate flavor, but it also protects our cookie crust from getting soggy.
    • Storage: Store in the refrigerator (covered) for up to 5 days.
    • If you don't have a food processor: Place chocolate cookies in a large freezer bag and crush with a rolling pin. Transfer crumbs to a medium-sized bowl, and stir in melted butter and salt until well combined.
    • Omit the booze. The liqueur heightens the cherry flavor without making it taste boozy. However, if you prefer to make the filling without any alcohol it will be just as delicious!
     

    Nutrition

    Calories: 623kcalCarbohydrates: 75gProtein: 8gFat: 39gSaturated Fat: 21gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 11gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 66mgSodium: 475mgPotassium: 511mgFiber: 6gSugar: 46gVitamin A: 878IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 71mgIron: 5mg
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Agnieszka

      August 02, 2021 at 6:18 pm

      5 stars
      The cherry and chocolate combo is always a win in my book! Can't wait to try it.

      Reply
    2. Michele

      August 02, 2021 at 6:53 pm

      5 stars
      OMG! This was awesome! You are a genius turning Black Forest Cake into a pie. Made it and there were no leftovers. Everyone loved it!

      Reply
      • Gastronotherapy

        August 03, 2021 at 10:14 am

        Thanks, Michele! 🙂 So glad you loved it as much as I do!!

        Reply
    3. Julia

      August 02, 2021 at 7:43 pm

      5 stars
      This is looking like a heaven pie! My hubby goes crazy for black forest cake, so I must turn it now in Black forest pie. Epic idea! Thanks for sharing, definitely will try it!

      Reply
      • Gastronotherapy

        August 03, 2021 at 10:15 am

        Thanks, Julia! I hope your husband loves it!

        Reply
    4. Mae

      August 02, 2021 at 8:12 pm

      5 stars
      Wow my family loves it! perfect pie recipe!

      Reply
      • Gastronotherapy

        August 03, 2021 at 10:15 am

        Thanks, Mae!

        Reply
    5. Beth

      August 02, 2021 at 10:32 pm

      5 stars
      This pie is so rich and very yummy! Excited to make this again with my daughter. Such a fun and addicting recipe!

      Reply
      • Gastronotherapy

        August 03, 2021 at 10:16 am

        Thanks, Beth! I agree that it's addicting!

        Reply
    6. Barbara J Haner

      August 09, 2021 at 4:54 pm

      5 stars
      I am going to save this recipe and make it for the first time we have guests in Santa Fe.... hope it is sooner than later!

      Reply
      • Gastronotherapy

        August 09, 2021 at 7:58 pm

        It would make for a festive dessert, for sure!

        Reply
    7. Diane

      November 06, 2021 at 9:50 am

      Could you make it with canned cherry pie filling? Can't buy cherries on the winter ...thank you much

      Reply
      • Gastronotherapy

        November 06, 2021 at 12:23 pm

        Hi, Diane! You can absolutely substitute canned cherry pie filling instead of making it from scratch. I recommend using one (21 oz.) can for the substitution. Let me know if you give it a try! Thanks for stopping by!

        Reply
    8. Mary

      December 07, 2021 at 4:27 pm

      Could I use frozen cherries vs fresh in this recipe?

      Reply
      • Gastronotherapy

        December 07, 2021 at 4:48 pm

        I have not tested this recipe using frozen cherries, but I think it would work just fine. Because frozen cherries tend to have more water content, you might need to add a bit more cornstarch to your pie filling. Let me know how it turns out if you give it a try!

        Reply

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    Hi, I'm MaryAnne! Gastronotherapy is where I create easy recipes that are mainly vegetarian and vegan. And I have a huge sweet tooth, so dessert is never far behind.

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