I had always been the one who took the long route when it came to baking. I’d search for the most intricate, time-consuming recipes, confident that the effort would make the results sweeter. But one summer afternoon, everything changed. My niece was coming over, and I wanted to make something easy, quick, and refreshing—something that would bring back memories of those backyard gatherings, the kind where no one worried about calories or the clock.
I reached for an old recipe card tucked away in my drawer: Cherry Pineapple Pie. This no-bake wonder is the perfect combination of tart cherries, sweet pineapple, and creamy filling, all sitting on a graham cracker crust. It takes just five minutes of prep time, and the end result is pure joy. I couldn’t believe how effortless it was to bring such a nostalgic treat to life.
This pie has since become a favorite in our family, a simple dessert that always sparks happy conversations and brings people together. It’s no-bake, meaning you can whip it up without turning on your oven or breaking a sweat.
Short Description
This Cherry Pineapple Pie is a refreshing, no-bake dessert perfect for any occasion. With a creamy filling made from sweetened condensed milk, whipped topping, and fruit, it’s a quick and easy treat that’ll leave everyone asking for seconds.
Key Ingredients
- 1 can (21-ounce) cherry pie filling
- 1 can (20-ounce) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 can (14-ounce) sweetened condensed milk
- 8 ounces whipped topping, thawed
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 (9-inch) graham cracker crust
Tools Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Spatula or cake leveler
- Refrigerator
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the cherry pie filling, drained crushed pineapple, sweetened condensed milk, whipped topping, and mini marshmallows. Stir the ingredients gently to combine.
Be careful not to overmix, as you want the ingredients to stay light and airy. The marshmallows should be evenly dispersed without getting crushed.
Step 2: Spread the Mixture
Once the filling is well combined, carefully transfer it into the graham cracker crust. Use a spatula or cake leveler to spread the mixture evenly, smoothing out the top to create a clean, flat surface.
Step 3: Chill the Pie
Cover the pie with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the filling has firmed up and set. The longer you let it chill, the better the flavors meld together, making each bite even more delightful.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy: No oven required! In just five minutes, you can prep a dessert that’s as satisfying as it is simple.
Refreshing: The combination of cherries, pineapple, and creamy filling is light, refreshing, and perfect for warm days.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this fun and colorful pie, which is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Versatile: Perfect for summer cookouts, picnics, or holiday dinners, this pie can be served at almost any occasion.
Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions
Pie doesn’t set properly
Solution: Be sure to chill the pie for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to firm up. If it’s still not set, leave it in the fridge a bit longer.
Overmixing the ingredients
Solution: When combining the ingredients, stir gently. Overmixing can cause the whipped topping to lose its fluffy texture.
Crust falling apart
Solution: Make sure your graham cracker crust is sturdy before adding the filling. If the crust is too crumbly, press it down more firmly to make it hold together better.
Filling too runny
Solution: If the filling seems too runny, use a little more whipped topping to thicken it up, or chill the pie longer to help it firm up.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
This pie is a great stand-alone dessert but can be paired with a variety of other dishes. It’s perfect alongside a BBQ spread or served at a summer picnic.
For a more indulgent experience, pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Serve it chilled, and it’s bound to impress at any family gathering or celebration.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing: Cover the pie with plastic wrap or foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you have leftovers, this pie holds up really well and remains just as refreshing the next day.
Reheating: No need to reheat this pie, as it’s best served chilled. Just keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to enjoy!
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?
Yes! Fresh cherries and pineapple will work perfectly, but you may need to cook the pineapple slightly to reduce its moisture.
2. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely. In fact, this pie tastes even better after sitting in the fridge overnight, as the flavors have more time to develop.
3. Can I use a different crust?
Yes! If you don’t have a graham cracker crust, you can substitute it with a shortbread or even an Oreo crust for a twist.
4. How can I make this more flavorful?
You can add a dash of vanilla extract to the filling or mix in some toasted coconut for an extra layer of flavor.
5. Can I freeze this pie?
Yes, this pie can be frozen! Just be sure to wrap it tightly and let it thaw in the fridge before serving.
Tips & Tricks
For a firmer filling, use a little less sweetened condensed milk or add a tablespoon of gelatin (dissolved in warm water) to help it set better.
For extra texture, add chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to the filling for a delightful crunch.
Recipe Variations
Tropical Twist: Replace the cherries with mango or strawberries, and swap the pineapple for papaya to create a tropical version of this pie.
Chocolate Lovers’ Pie: Add mini chocolate chips to the filling for a rich, sweet touch. You could also drizzle melted chocolate over the top before serving.
Vegan Version: Use a dairy-free whipped topping and sweetened condensed coconut milk to make this pie vegan-friendly. Just ensure your crust is also dairy-free.
Final Thoughts
This Cherry Pineapple Pie is a true gem, blending the sweetness of cherries, the tropical tang of pineapple, and the creaminess of whipped topping in one delightful bite. It’s the kind of dessert that transports you back to simpler times, evoking warm memories of family gatherings and sunny afternoons. In just five minutes of prep, you’ll have a dessert that’s ready to wow your guests or simply satisfy your own sweet tooth. No baking, no fuss—just pure, unadulterated joy in every slice.
You can adapt it to suit different tastes or dietary preferences, whether it’s swapping out the whipped topping for a dairy-free version or adding a handful of toasted coconut for some extra crunch. Each bite feels like a celebration, and it’s a recipe that’s bound to become a cherished part of your own culinary tradition.
Don’t be afraid to get creative with it—after all, the best recipes are the ones that evolve with you and your family. Enjoy!
Cherry Pineapple Pie
Print ThisIngredients
- 1 can (21-ounce) cherry pie filling
- 1 can (20-ounce) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 can (14-ounce) sweetened condensed milk
- 8 ounces whipped topping, thawed
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 (9-inch) graham cracker crust
Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the cherry pie filling, drained pineapple, sweetened condensed milk, whipped topping, and mini marshmallows. Stir gently until well mixed, being careful not to crush the marshmallows.
Step 2: Spread the Mixture
Transfer the mixture into the graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to spread it evenly and smooth the top.
Step 3: Chill the Pie
Cover the pie and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the filling has set. The longer it chills, the better the flavor!
