Ingredients
Pie Base









Cherry Filling






Chocolate Ganache
Instructions
Step 1
Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a large bowl, mix *flour*, *cocoa powder*, *sugar*, and *salt* until evenly combined. Add the cubed *butter* and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Incorporate the *egg yolk* and start adding *heavy cream* gradually. Mix until the dough holds together but is not sticky. Press the dough into a 23-24 cm (9-inch) pie pan, ensuring an even base and edges. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. Blind bake for 15-20 minutes or until the edges are set, then cool.
Step 2
In a medium saucepan, combine the *cherries* and *sugar*, cooking over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to boil. If using *frozen cherries*, ensure they are thoroughly defrosted. Mix the *SPICER liqueur* and *cornstarch* with the water to create a slurry, and stir it into the bubbling cherry mixture.
Continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the filling thickens. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once thickened, set aside to cool completely. It's recommended to prepare this filling 1-2 days in advance for the best result.
Step 3
In a heatproof bowl, place the chopped *dark chocolate*. Heat the *heavy cream* in a saucepan until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the *chocolate* and let it sit for a minute before stirring until smooth and glossy. Allow the ganache to cool slightly until it reaches a spreadable consistency.
Step 4
Pour the *cherry filling* onto the cooled pie base, spreading it evenly. Gently pour the *chocolate ganache* over the top of the cherry layer, using a spatula to evenly distribute it.
Let the pie set in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. **Enjoy the festive delight!**
Servings
🍽️ **Serve it warm**: A warm slice of this cherry pie is the epitome of comfort food, especially when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream that's slowly melting over the top. 💖 This combination turns every bite into a luscious dance of flavors across your palate.
🌰 **Add some crunch**: Want an extra texture? Sprinkle some toasted almonds or pecans over the ganache before serving. These nuts add a delightful crunch and subtly enhance that rich, chocolatey flavor.
🍷 **Pairing and presentation**: For the perfect pairing, consider a glass of cherry wine or a warm spiced tea. These extras transform your dessert presentation from delightful to indulgently gourmet. Don't forget to plate with an elegant drizzle of leftover ganache along the edge!
🍋 **Zesty twist**: For those seeking a fresh twist, serve with a dollop of lemon whipped cream to cut through the sweetness and add a refreshing citrus burst.
Equipment
Make sure you have a standard pie pan. Non-stick varieties can help ensure a flawless crust removal. 🥧
A sturdy rolling pin will help you achieve the perfect crust texture. Chill it before use for an extra crisp finish. 💪



Various sizes are recommended for separating and preparing your base, filling, and ganache.
Useful for cutting butter into the flour mixture to achieve the right dough consistency. 🧈
Perfect for mixing your ganache without scratching your mixing bowls. 🍫


Variations
🌾 **Gluten-Free**: Swap the all-purpose flour in the crust for a high-quality gluten-free blend. Make sure the mix includes a binding agent like xanthan gum to provide that comforting pie structure you love.
🌱 **Vegan Variation**: Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative that's solid enough to provide structure, and use coconut cream for the ganache. For the filling, opt for agave syrup instead of sugar to ensure a smooth, plant-friendly finish.
**🍒 Pro tip**: For additional depth, consider using a vegan chocolate that complements the cherry's natural sweetness.
Faq
- What if I don't have cherry liqueur?
You can substitute with a combination of cherry juice and a splash of almond extract for a similar flavor profile.
- Can I use fresh cherries instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Just ensure they're pitted and adjust sugar levels based on their natural sweetness.
- How can I prevent a soggy crust?
Try blind baking your crust for 10 minutes before adding the filling. This assists in achieving a crispier base.
- What's the trick to a glossy ganache?
Use high-quality chocolate and make sure the cream is warm, not hot, before mixing.
- How can I make the filling more flavorful?
Consider reducing some of the liquid with a cinnamon stick for added spices.
- Is it possible to make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the crust and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking.