Are you craving a sweet treat that's both simple to make and incredibly delicious? Look no further! This cherry cream cheese pie recipe, made with the creamy goodness of Eagle Brand sweetened condensed milk, is the perfect answer. Forget complicated baking techniques; this recipe is surprisingly easy, making it ideal for beginner bakers and busy weeknights. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this stunning and flavorful dessert! It's a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals (though let's be honest, pie is a treat!).
Ingredients:
- 1 (14-ounce) can Eagle Brand Sweetened Condensed Milk
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (21-ounce) can cherry pie filling
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup sugar
- 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) melted butter
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your pie bakes evenly.
Make the Crust:
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until evenly moistened.
- Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie plate. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let cool completely. This creates a sturdy base for your creamy filling.
Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. This is easiest with an electric mixer.
- Gradually add the Eagle Brand sweetened condensed milk, beating until well combined.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Make sure to beat well after each addition for a smooth, lump-free filling.
Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the cherry pie filling into the cooled crust.
- Carefully pour the cream cheese mixture over the top of the cherry filling.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set. The edges will be set, and the center will only jiggle slightly.
- Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before refrigerating for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the filling to set properly.
Tips for the Best Cherry Cream Cheese Pie:
- Soften your cream cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is completely softened to room temperature for best results. This will prevent lumps in your filling and ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
- Don't overbake: Overbaking can result in a cracked crust and a dry filling. Start checking for doneness around the 40-minute mark.
- Chill thoroughly: Allowing the pie to chill completely is crucial for setting the filling and enhancing the flavors. Patience is key!
Variations:
- Add a topping: Garnish with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or fresh cherries for an extra touch of elegance.
- Use different fruit: Substitute the cherry pie filling with your favorite fruit filling, such as blueberry, strawberry, or raspberry.
- Make it a no-bake pie: For a quicker version, omit the baking step and simply layer the filling and fruit in the prepared crust. Chill thoroughly before serving.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-45g
- Protein: Approximately 5-7g
This delicious cherry cream cheese pie is perfect for any occasion – from casual weeknight dinners to elegant holiday gatherings. It's a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors, and the creamy texture is simply irresistible. Enjoy this simple yet impressive homemade dessert! It’s one of the best recipes for quick dinner ideas and definitely deserves a spot in your recipe book. Happy baking!