No-Bake Cherry Almond Pie Cups are a delightful, elegant, and refreshingly simple dessert that captures the nostalgic flavor of a classic cherry pie in a charming, individual no-bake format. Imagine a crisp, buttery almond graham cracker crust nestled in a clear cup, layered with a cloud of fluffy, almond-infused whipped cream cheese filling, and crowned with a glossy, sweet-tart cherry compote that bursts with vibrant flavor and color. These delightful cups are a celebration of contrasting textures and harmonious flavors: the crunchy, nutty base gives way to the cool, creamy, and subtly tangy filling, which is perfectly complemented by the juicy, fruity cherry topping. Finished with a sprinkle of toasted almonds or a drizzle of white chocolate, they are as beautiful to behold as they are delicious to eat.
Why Is This No-Bake Cherry Almond Pie Cups Recipe So Popular?
The recipe’s popularity is anchored in its brilliant solution to the desire for a homemade, pie-like dessert without any of the traditional baking hurdles. First, its completely no-bake nature makes it accessible year-round, especially during hot weather when oven use is undesirable, and it’s virtually foolproof for cooks of all levels. Second, it features a beloved, classic flavor combination—cherry and almond—that evokes feelings of nostalgia and comfort, yet feels fresh in its individual presentation. Third, the individual serving style is a major convenience. It eliminates the mess of slicing a pie, ensures perfect portion control, and makes serving at gatherings effortless and stylish. Furthermore, its popularity is sustained by its make-ahead flexibility and stunning visual appeal. All components can be prepared separately hours or days in advance and assembled just before serving, and the vibrant red cherry layer against the white cream and golden crust is incredibly inviting. It’s popular because it delivers a dessert that tastes lovingly homemade, looks professionally crafted, and requires minimal active kitchen time.
Why You’ll Love This No-Bake Cherry Almond Pie Cups:
- No Oven Required: A cool, refreshing dessert perfect for any season and any kitchen skill level.
- Quick & Easy Assembly: Layer store-bought or homemade components for stunning results with little effort.
- Perfect for Parties: Individual servings are easy to transport, serve, and eat.
- Customizable: Use different pie fillings (blueberry, peach), crusts, or extracts to make it your own.
- Family-Friendly Flavor: The cherry-almond combo is a timeless crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Almond Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 ½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup (40g) finely ground blanched almonds or almond flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract
- 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, melted
For the Almond Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 ounces (225g) full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- ⅓ cup (40g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ – 1 teaspoon pure almond extract (to taste)
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream, cold
For the Cherry Compote Topping:
- 1 lb (about 4 cups) fresh sweet cherries, pitted, OR 2 (14.5 oz) cans pitted tart cherries in water, drained
- ⅓ cup (65g) granulated sugar (adjust based on cherry sweetness)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or ½ teaspoon almond extract
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with ¼ cup (60ml) cold water or cherry juice (slurry)
- Optional: 1-2 drops red food coloring for enhanced color
For Assembly & Garnish:
- 6-8 clear dessert cups or glasses (8-10 oz size)
- Toasted sliced almonds
- Whipped cream
- White chocolate curls or drizzle
How to Make No-Bake Cherry Almond Pie Cups:
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps for making this delightful No-Bake Cherry Almond Pie Cups. It’s as easy as pie, and I promise you’ll feel like a culinary superstar!
Step 1: Make the Cherry Compote (can be made ahead)
In a medium saucepan, combine pitted cherries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cherries release their juices and the sugar dissolves, about 5-7 minutes for fresh, 3-4 minutes for canned. In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch slurry until smooth. Slowly stir the slurry into the simmering cherry mixture. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens to a glossy, pie-filling consistency. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla/almond extract and optional food coloring. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until completely cold.
Step 2: Prepare the Almond Graham Crust
In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, ground almonds, and sugar. Stir in the almond extract and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand and holds together when pinched. Divide the mixture evenly among your dessert cups (about 3-4 tablespoons per cup). Press firmly into an even layer using the bottom of a glass or tamper. Place cups in the refrigerator to set while you make the filling.
Step 3: Whip the Almond Cream Cheese Filling
In a large bowl using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and almond extract on medium speed until completely smooth and creamy. In a separate chilled bowl, whip the cold heavy cream to stiff peaks. Gently fold about one-third of the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to lighten it. Then, fold the lightened mixture back into the remaining whipped cream until no white streaks remain. Be gentle to maintain the airy texture.
Step 4: Assemble the First Layers
Remove the cups from the refrigerator. Spoon or pipe a generous layer of the almond cream cheese filling over the crust in each cup, dividing it evenly. Smooth the tops. Return to the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the filling to firm up slightly.
Step 5: Add the Cherry Topping and Chill
Once the filling layer is firm, spoon the chilled cherry compote over the top, dividing it evenly among the cups. Gently spread it into an even layer. Cover the cups loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until completely chilled and set.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, add the final garnishes. Top each cup with a dollop of fresh whipped cream, a sprinkle of toasted sliced almonds, and a few white chocolate curls or a delicate drizzle of melted white chocolate.
Step 7: Enjoy!
Serve the pie cups cold, with a long spoon to enjoy all the layers in every bite.
Tips for Success:
- Pit Cherries Easily: Use a cherry pitter, or the back of a chopstick to push the pit out through the stem end.
- Control Compote Thickness: The cornstarch slurry will continue to thicken as it cools. If your compote seems too thick after chilling, stir in a teaspoon of water or juice to loosen it.
- Room Temperature Cream Cheese: This is crucial for a smooth, lump-free filling. Let it soften on the counter for 1-2 hours.
- Chill Components Separately: For the cleanest layers and best texture, chill the compote and the filling (in the cups) separately before final assembly.
- Toast the Almonds: Toasting the almonds for the garnish (and grinding fresh for the crust) maximizes their flavor.
- Use Clear Cups: The visual appeal of the distinct red, white, and golden layers is a big part of the dessert’s charm.
Equipment Needed:
- 6-8 Clear Dessert Cups/Glasses
- Medium Saucepan
- Mixing Bowls
- Electric Mixer
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Cherry Pitter (optional but helpful)
- Piping Bag (optional, for neat filling layers)
Variations of No-Bake Cherry Almond Pie Cups:
- Chocolate Cherry: Add 2 tbsp cocoa powder to the crust and use a chocolate cookie base. Add chocolate shavings as garnish.
- Cheesecake Style: Increase cream cheese to 12 oz and add ¼ cup sour cream to the filling for a tangier, denser layer.
- Blueberry or Mixed Berry: Substitute cherries with blueberries, raspberries, or a mix. Use lemon zest in the compote.
- Vegan/Dairy-Free: Use vegan butter, vegan cream cheese, coconut cream for whipping, and maple syrup as sweetener.
- Individual Pie Jars: Layer in 4 oz mason jars for a perfectly portable picnic dessert.
- With a Cookie Base: Use crushed amaretti cookies or shortbread cookies instead of graham crackers for the crust.
Serving Suggestions for No-Bake Cherry Almond Pie Cups:
- For a Summer BBQ: The perfect refreshing, make-ahead dessert to bring to outdoor gatherings.
- As a Romantic Dessert for Two: Prepare in two larger wine glasses for a special treat.
- On a Brunch Buffet: A sweet addition to a special weekend brunch spread.
- For a Holiday Potluck: The red and white layers make them festive for Christmas parties.
- As a Quick Weeknight Treat: Assemble with pre-made cherry pie filling for an ultra-fast version.
Prep Time:
30 minutes (plus chilling time)
Cooking Time:
10 minutes (for compote)
Total Time:
40 minutes (plus 3+ hours chilling)
Nutritional Information:
(Estimated per cup, based on 8 servings)
- Calories: ~420
- Protein: 5g
- Sodium: ~180mg
- Sugar: 35g
- Fat: 29g (Saturated Fat: 16g)
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
FAQs about No-Bake Cherry Almond Pie Cups:
Q: Can I use canned cherry pie filling?
A: Yes, for a major shortcut, you can use a high-quality canned cherry pie filling. Warm it slightly to loosen before layering. The flavor of homemade compote is superior, but canned works in a pinch.
Q: How far in advance can I assemble these?
A: You can assemble the crust and filling layers up to a day ahead. Add the cherry topping within 4-6 hours of serving to prevent the crust from getting soggy. Add final garnishes right before serving.
Q: Can I make these gluten-free?
A: Absolutely. Use certified gluten-free graham crackers or gluten-free cookies (like Schär brand) for the crust.
Q: My cream cheese filling is runny. What happened?
A: Likely causes: cream cheese wasn’t at room temperature, cream was under-whipped, or you over-mixed when folding. Ensure proper whipping and chill the assembled cups thoroughly to firm up.
Q: Can I freeze these?
A: It’s not recommended. The creamy filling and fruit topping can become icy and separate upon thawing, compromising the texture.
Q: What can I use instead of almonds for a nut-free version?
A: Omit the ground almonds from the crust and use an extra ¼ cup of graham crumbs. Use vanilla extract instead of almond extract throughout. Garnish with sprinkles or graham crumbs.
Final Thoughts:
No-Bake Cherry Almond Pie Cups are the ultimate smart dessert—a treat that delivers incredible flavor, stunning presentation, and total convenience. This recipe celebrates the art of assembly, showing how a few well-prepared components can come together to create something far greater than the sum of its parts. They are a joyful dessert to make and an even greater joy to share, perfect for turning an ordinary day into a small celebration or for effortlessly impressing guests. So, pit those cherries, whip that cream, and layer up these delightful cups. They’re a guaranteed way to bring a smile and a taste of homemade comfort to any table.
