I’m so excited to share this Bourbon Cherry Chocolate Slab Pie with you today. It’s the dessert that always makes people ask for the recipe, with its perfect balance of boozy warmth, chocolate richness, and sweet-tart cherries. The slab format? Pure genius for serving a crowd. No more awkward pie-cutting or tiny slices that leave guests wanting more. And that first bite, where the flavors meld together on your tongue? That’s the moment that turns ordinary dessert lovers into bourbon cherry chocolate devotees.
Why You’ll Love this Bourbon Cherry Chocolate Slab Pie
When you’re looking for a dessert that’ll make everyone at the table swoon, this Bourbon Cherry Chocolate Slab Pie delivers in every possible way.
The combination of dark chocolate and bourbon-infused cherries creates a flavor profile that’s sophisticated yet comforting.
I love how the slab format makes serving a crowd so much easier than traditional round pies.
No more awkward triangular slices that fall apart! Plus, the ratio of filling to crust is absolutely perfect.
The slight warmth from the bourbon cuts through the sweetness, while the chocolate adds that decadent touch we all crave.
What Ingredients are in Bourbon Cherry Chocolate Slab Pie?
To create this showstopping dessert, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that combine to create something truly magical.
- Pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
- Pitted cherries
- Brown sugar
- Cornstarch
- Bourbon
- Vanilla extract
- Dark chocolate
When shopping for these ingredients, I recommend splurging a little on the bourbon and chocolate—they’re the star flavor-makers in this recipe, and using quality versions will elevate your pie from good to unforgettable.
How to Make this Bourbon Cherry Chocolate Slab Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
Roll out your favorite pie crust (homemade or store-bought) and carefully line your baking pan, making certain to press it into the corners and up the sides.
There’s something so therapeutic about working with pie dough, letting it stretch and settle into its new home.
Step 2: Create the Cherry Filling
In a large bowl, combine pitted cherries, brown sugar, and cornstarch, mixing gently until the cherries are evenly coated.
The cornstarch is your secret weapon here, transforming what could be a soggy mess into a perfectly thickened filling that holds its shape when sliced.
Step 3: Add the Bourbon and Vanilla
Pour in bourbon and vanilla extract, then stir to incorporate these flavor powerhouses.
The bourbon adds complexity without overwhelming—think warm caramel notes that perfectly complement the sweet-tart cherries.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Spread your bourbon-cherry filling evenly across the prepared crust, making certain every inch gets its fair share of fruit.
This is where patience pays off; an even distribution means every slice will deliver the perfect cherry-to-crust ratio.
Step 5: Drizzle with Chocolate
Melt your dark chocolate until smooth and glossy, then drizzle it artfully over the cherry filling.
The contrast of dark chocolate against the ruby-red cherries creates both a flavor explosion and visual appeal that’s hard to beat.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide your pie into a preheated 400°F oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust turns a beautiful golden brown and the filling bubbles around the edges.
Your kitchen will smell like heaven, I promise.
Using a premium stand mixer would make the preparation process much more efficient and thorough, especially when mixing your filling ingredients.
Step 7: Cool Completely
Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing—I know it’s torture to wait, but this vital step guarantees clean, picture-perfect slices.
The filling needs time to set up properly, transforming from molten deliciousness to sliceable perfection.
What to Serve with Bourbon Cherry Chocolate Slab Pie
This decadent dessert deserves some thoughtful accompaniments to really make it shine. A generous dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream is practically mandatory—its cloud-like texture perfectly balances the rich filling.
For something more substantial, a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates that magical hot-and-cold contrast when the pie is served slightly warm.
Coffee lovers will appreciate a strong espresso or French press coffee alongside, as the bitter notes complement the sweet-tart cherries beautifully.
For a truly indulgent pairing, serve with a small glass of the same bourbon you used in the recipe—trust me, the flavors mirror each other in the most delightful way.
And don’t forget a sprinkle of chocolate shavings or fresh cherries on top for that picture-perfect finishing touch.
Bourbon Cherry Chocolate Slab Pie Substitutions and Variations
• Seasonal Twists: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg for fall flavor.
Summer version? Mix in fresh basil or mint leaves with the cherries.
- Extra Texture: Sprinkle chopped almonds or pistachios over the filling before baking for a delightful crunch.
- Garnish Ideas: Dust with powdered sugar, add chocolate curls, or candy some fresh cherries for a gorgeous topping.
Leftovers and Storage for this Bourbon Cherry Chocolate Slab Pie
This slab pie keeps remarkably well, maintaining its delicious flavor for up to 4 days when stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy leftover pie, let refrigerated slices come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving, or warm gently in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes.
For frozen slices, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming.
To prevent soggy bottom crust, store the pie on a wire rack inside your container to allow air circulation.
Notably, many people find the flavors meld and deepen overnight, making day-two pie even more flavorful than fresh-baked!
Final Thoughts
This Bourbon Cherry Chocolate Slab Pie brings together three irresistible flavors in a rustic, crowd-pleasing dessert.
There’s something undeniably comforting about the combination of boozy cherries and rich chocolate nestled in a buttery crust.
It’s the kind of dessert that feels special without being fussy. Perfect for holiday gatherings or summer potlucks when cherries are at their peak, this slab pie format means everyone gets their fair share of that gorgeous filling.
The best part? The bourbon adds a sophisticated warmth that elevates this pie beyond the ordinary, making it memorable long after the last crumb disappears from the plate.