From Pies to Bars: The Best Cherry Pie Filling Desserts

Cherry pie filling is one of the most versatile and delicious ingredients you can keep in your pantry. While it’s perfect for making a classic cherry pie, there are so many other creative ways to use it in desserts. From buttery pie bars and creamy cheesecakes to warm cobblers and no-bake treats, cherry pie filling makes it easy to whip up a sweet delight in no time.

Whether you’re craving a nostalgic homemade pie, a quick and simple dump cake, or an indulgent cherry cheesecake bar, this list has something for every dessert lover. Get ready to explore some of the best cherry pie filling desserts that are easy to make and absolutely irresistible!

Classic Cherry Pies and Tarts

Nothing beats the nostalgic flavor of a homemade cherry pie with a golden, flaky crust. Whether you’re making a traditional pie, bite-sized tarts, or a rustic galette, cherry pie filling adds the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. Here are some classic recipes you’ll love:

Cherry Pie Recipe with a Flaky Crust

Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 6-8 tablespoons ice water
• 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling (or homemade)
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon sugar (for sprinkling)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the pie crust: In a bowl, mix flour and salt. Cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add ice water, a tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough holds together. Shape into a disk, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
2. Roll out the dough: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out half the dough to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Place it in the pan and trim any excess.
3. Prepare the filling: Mix cherry pie filling with almond extract and cinnamon for enhanced flavor. Pour it into the prepared crust.
4. Make the lattice crust: Roll out the remaining dough and cut into strips. Lay them over the pie in a crisscross pattern.
5. Bake the pie: Brush the crust with egg wash and sprinkle sugar on top. Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown.
6. Cool and serve: Let the pie cool slightly before slicing. Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Mini Cherry Tarts with Graham Cracker Crust

Mini Cherry Tarts with Graham Cracker Crust

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup melted butter
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling

Instructions:

1. Make the crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press into greased muffin tins or mini tart pans. Chill for 15 minutes.
2. Prepare the filling: Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Assemble the tarts: Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the crusts, then top with cherry pie filling.
4. Chill and serve: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Garnish with melted chocolate or mascarpone cheese if desired.

Rustic Cherry Galette for a Simple Dessert

A cherry galette is a fuss-free alternative to traditional pie. This freeform tart requires no special baking skills—just roll out the dough, fill it with cherry pie filling, fold the edges, and bake. The result? A golden, crispy crust with juicy, bubbling cherries in the center.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 4-6 tablespoons ice water
• 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (if needed to thicken filling)
• 1 tablespoon sugar (for sprinkling)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the dough: Mix flour, salt, and butter until crumbly. Add ice water gradually until a dough forms. Chill for 30 minutes.
2. Roll and fill: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out dough into a circle, about 12 inches wide. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread cherry pie filling in the center, leaving a 2-inch border.
3. Fold and bake: Fold the edges over the filling, overlapping slightly. Brush crust with egg wash and sprinkle with sugar. Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown.
4. Cool and serve: Let cool slightly before serving with powdered sugar or whipped cream.

Why You’ll Love It:

• No pie pan required!
• A rustic, homemade look.
• Delicious with powdered sugar dusting or a scoop of whipped cream.

If you love beautifully crafted pies, lattice pies are a stunning way to showcase your cherry pie filling. The woven crust adds a decorative touch while allowing the cherry filling to bubble through as it bakes. For inspiration, check out these amazing lattice pie recipes for every season!

Irresistible Cherry Bars and Cheesecakes

Cherry pie filling isn’t just for traditional pies—it also makes for decadent bars and creamy cheesecakes. Whether you love a buttery shortbread base, a rich cheesecake layer, or a crumbly streusel topping, these cherry-filled treats are perfect for any occasion.

Cherry Pie Bars with a Buttery Shortbread Crust

If you love cherry pie but want something easier to serve, cherry pie bars are a fantastic choice. These bars start with a buttery shortbread crust that provides a sturdy yet melt-in-your-mouth base. The cherry pie filling adds just the right amount of tartness, and a crumb topping or drizzle of icing takes them to the next level.

To make the perfect cherry pie bars, use cold butter when making the shortbread crust to create a crisp, flaky texture. Adding a streusel topping enhances the crunch, while a simple vanilla glaze balances the tartness of the cherries. These bars are great for potlucks, picnics, or as an afternoon treat with coffee or tea.

No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Bars with Cream Cheese

No-bake cherry cheesecake bars are the perfect solution for when you want a rich and creamy dessert without turning on the oven. This dessert features a graham cracker crust, a silky smooth cream cheese filling, and a generous layer of cherry pie filling on top.

This is a great make-ahead dessert that can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. To enhance the flavor, add a bit of lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture. For a chocolatey twist, swap the graham cracker crust for an Oreo crust. These bars are ideal for summer gatherings or last-minute desserts.

Cherry Almond Crumble Bars for a Crunchy Treat

Cherry almond crumble bars are a delicious combination of sweet, tart, and crunchy flavors. These bars start with a buttery oat crust, a thick layer of cherry pie filling, and a golden almond streusel topping.

To make them even better, try toasting the almonds before adding them to the crumble for a deeper flavor. Brown sugar in the streusel creates a warm, caramel-like taste, while a drizzle of melted white chocolate adds extra sweetness. Enjoy them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.

Quick and Easy No-Bake Cherry Desserts

Sometimes, you want a delicious cherry dessert without turning on the oven. No-bake cherry desserts are perfect for busy days, summer gatherings, or when you need a last-minute treat. These recipes use simple ingredients to create indulgent, fruity sweets in no time.

Cherry Dump Cake with Just 3 Ingredients

Cherry dump cake is one of the easiest and most satisfying desserts you can make. As the name suggests, you simply “dump” the ingredients into a baking dish and let them work their magic. All you need is cherry pie filling, a box of yellow or white cake mix, and melted butter. The result is a warm, gooey cherry dessert with a crisp, buttery topping.

Ingredients:

• 1 can cherry pie filling
• 1 box yellow or white cake mix
• 1/2 cup melted butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. Spread the cherry pie filling evenly in the dish.
3. Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the cherries.
4. Drizzle melted butter over the top, covering as much of the cake mix as possible.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes until the top is golden brown.
6. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Cherry Fluff Salad with Whipped Cream and Marshmallows

Cherry fluff salad is a light and creamy no-bake dessert that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, and holiday tables. This retro-inspired dessert combines cherry pie filling with whipped cream, mini marshmallows, crushed pineapple, and chopped nuts for a delightful mix of flavors and textures.

Ingredients:

• 1 can cherry pie filling
• 1 cup whipped cream or Cool Whip
• 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
• 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine cherry pie filling, whipped cream, and marshmallows.
2. Gently fold in the crushed pineapple and nuts.
3. Add shredded coconut if desired.
4. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
5. Serve chilled as a refreshing, creamy treat.

No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Cups in Jars

For a single-serve dessert that looks as good as it tastes, no-bake cherry cheesecake cups are a fantastic choice. These mini cheesecakes feature a graham cracker or Oreo cookie crust at the bottom, followed by a smooth and creamy cheesecake filling, and topped with a generous spoonful of cherry pie filling.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (or crushed Oreo cookies)
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup whipped cream
• 1 can cherry pie filling

Instructions:

1. Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and press into the bottom of small jars or cups.
2. In a bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Fold in whipped cream gently.
4. Spoon the cheesecake mixture over the crust layer.
5. Top with a spoonful of cherry pie filling.
6. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
7. Garnish with extra whipped cream or chocolate shavings if desired.

Warm and Comforting Cherry Desserts

There’s something special about warm cherry desserts fresh from the oven. The combination of bubbling cherry pie filling, golden crusts, and cozy spices makes these treats perfect for chilly evenings, family gatherings, or simply indulging in a sweet, comforting moment. From cobblers to crisps, these desserts bring out the best flavors of cherries with minimal effort.

Classic Cherry Cobbler with a Golden Biscuit Topping

Cherry cobbler is a timeless dessert that’s simple to make yet full of rich flavors. It features a bubbling layer of cherry pie filling topped with a sweet, buttery biscuit crust. As it bakes, the topping turns golden brown, forming a crisp contrast to the soft, warm cherries underneath.

Ingredients:

• 1 can cherry pie filling
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ cup milk
• ¼ cup melted butter
• ½ tsp cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread cherry pie filling in a greased baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and cinnamon.
4. Stir in milk and melted butter until combined.
5. Drop spoonfuls of the batter over the cherries.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Cherry Crisp with a Crunchy Oat Streusel

Cherry crisp is a must-try if you love a dessert with texture. Unlike cobbler, which has a soft biscuit topping, a crisp features a crunchy oat-based streusel that adds a delightful contrast to the juicy cherries.

Ingredients:

• 1 can cherry pie filling
• ½ cup rolled oats
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup melted butter
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ¼ cup chopped pecans or almonds (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread cherry pie filling in a greased baking dish.
3. In a bowl, combine oats, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and melted butter.
4. Sprinkle the oat mixture over the cherries.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden and crispy.
6. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt.

Baked Cherry Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce

Cherry bread pudding is a warm and custardy dessert that’s perfect for using up leftover bread while creating something incredibly delicious.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cubed bread (brioche or challah preferred)
• 1 cup cherry pie filling
• 2 cups milk
• 2 eggs
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place bread cubes in a greased baking dish.
3. In a bowl, whisk milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon.
4. Pour over the bread and gently fold in cherry pie filling.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until set and golden brown.
6. Serve warm with vanilla sauce or whipped cream.

Cherry-Stuffed Baked Apples for a Fruity Twist

Ingredients:

• 4 apples, cored
• 1 cup cherry pie filling
• ¼ tsp cinnamon
• 2 tbsp chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
• 1 tbsp honey

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Fill cored apples with cherry pie filling, cinnamon, and nuts.
3. Drizzle with honey and place in a baking dish.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until apples are tender.
5. Serve warm with granola or vanilla yogurt.

These warm cherry desserts are perfect for cozy nights and satisfying cravings!

Tips for Working with Cherry Pie Filling

Cherry pie filling is a versatile ingredient that can enhance everything from classic pies to no-bake cheesecakes. Whether you’re using store-bought or homemade filling, these tips will help you make the most of its rich, tart-sweet flavor and achieve the perfect texture for your desserts.

1. Enhance the Flavor for a Homemade Touch

While canned cherry pie filling is convenient, you can easily elevate its flavor with a few simple additions. Try mixing in:

• A teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract for a deeper, aromatic taste.
• A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the warm flavors.
• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice to balance the sweetness with a hint of tartness.
• A handful of fresh or frozen cherries to add texture and natural sweetness.

These small adjustments can make store-bought cherry pie filling taste just like homemade.

2. Adjust the Consistency for Different Desserts

Cherry pie filling comes with a thick syrupy texture that works well for pies but may need adjustments for other desserts. Here’s how to modify it based on your needs:

• For thicker consistency (ideal for bars and pastries): Stir in a teaspoon of cornstarch dissolved in water and heat the filling until it thickens.
• For a smoother consistency (great for layering in trifles or cheesecakes): Blend part of the filling to create a softer texture while keeping some whole cherries for balance.
• For a looser sauce (perfect for ice cream or pancakes): Mix in a bit of water, fruit juice, or warmed honey to create a pourable topping.

Adjusting the texture ensures the filling complements your specific dessert.

Creating delicious cherry pie filling desserts is even easier with the right kitchen tools. This high-performance blender features a removable cup, making it perfect for blending cheesecake ingredients, smoothing out cherry sauces, or whipping up cherry-flavored milkshakes. With its leakproof design and dishwasher-safe parts, cleanup is effortless, so you can focus on enjoying your homemade treats.

3. Prevent Soggy Crusts and Overflows in Baked Desserts

If you’re making a cherry pie or other baked goods, preventing a soggy crust and messy overflow is key:

• Use a pre-baked crust for custard-style pies to prevent excess moisture from seeping in.
• Sprinkle a thin layer of flour, cornstarch, or ground nuts (like almonds or pecans) on the bottom crust before adding the filling to absorb excess juices.
• Avoid overfilling pies and pastries to prevent bubbling over during baking. A lattice crust or vent holes in the top crust can help release steam and keep the filling from spilling out.

These small adjustments can help maintain a perfect, crisp crust without unwanted mess.

4. Use Cherry Pie Filling in Creative Ways

Cherry pie filling isn’t just for pies—it can be used in a variety of creative desserts. Here are some unique ideas:

• Swirl it into cheesecake batter before baking for a marbled cherry cheesecake.
• Layer it with yogurt and granola for an easy cherry parfait.
• Use it as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or French toast for a sweet breakfast treat.
• Stuff it into crescent roll dough or puff pastry to make cherry turnovers.
• Blend it into milkshakes or smoothies for a fruity twist.

Thinking outside the box allows you to use cherry pie filling in quick and unexpected ways.

5. Store and Preserve Leftover Cherry Pie Filling

If you have leftover cherry pie filling, proper storage ensures it stays fresh:

• Refrigerate any unused filling in an airtight container and use it within 5–7 days.
• Freeze portions in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight before using.
• Repurpose leftovers in small desserts like hand pies, mug cakes, or as an oatmeal topping.

By storing cherry pie filling correctly, you can reduce waste and always have it on hand for a quick dessert.