If you’ve been on the hunt for a fun, vibrant dessert that’s as easy as it is delicious, you’re in for a treat. This Cherry Kool-Aid Pie Recipe combines creamy, dreamy filling with that nostalgic black cherry Kool-Aid flavor we all love—without turning on the oven. Let me show you how to whip up this no-bake summer favorite in no time!
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
I remember making this pie for a summer BBQ with friends, and everyone kept asking for seconds (and the recipe!). It’s simple, satisfying, and brings back memories of carefree days and childhood flavors in the best way.
- Super Easy to Make: No baking means minimal effort and mess.
- Refreshing & Light: Perfectly cool and creamy for hot summer afternoons.
- Classic Flavor Combo: The tartness of black cherry Kool-Aid pairs so well with creamy filling.
- Eye-Catching Presentation: Those bright maraschino cherries on fluffy Cool Whip swirls are just adorable.
Ingredients & Why They Work
Before heading to the store or raiding your pantry, here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need and why each ingredient plays a starring role in this no-bake Cherry Kool-Aid Pie.

- Pre-made graham cracker crust: Saves you time and adds that perfect crunchy, slightly sweet base.
- Cream cheese: Provides creaminess and a mild tang to balance the sweet Kool-Aid flavor.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Adds rich sweetness and helps everything set without baking.
- Unsweetened black cherry Kool-Aid mix: The key flavor powerhouse giving the pie its signature bold cherry taste.
- Cool Whip: Lightens the filling and makes it irresistibly fluffy.
- Extra Cool Whip for garnish: For that pretty finishing touch on each slice.
- Maraschino cherries with stems: Classic pie garnish that ties everything together visually and flavor-wise.
Make It Your Way
One of the best parts about this Cherry Kool-Aid Pie Recipe is how easily it adapts to your personal taste or dietary needs. Whether you want to change up the flavor or add a twist on the garnish, this no-bake treat welcomes creativity!
- Variation: I once swapped the black cherry Kool-Aid with raspberry flavor and it was a hit at a summer barbecue. The tartness gave the pie a bright, fresh kick that my guests loved!
- Dairy-Free Option: To make it dairy-free, try using a vegan cream cheese and a dairy-free whipped topping. The texture stays creamy and delightful.
- Garnish Ideas: Instead of maraschino cherries, you can top with fresh berries or even a drizzle of chocolate syrup for an indulgent twist.
- Make It Mini: Use small graham cracker crusts to create individual-sized pies for a fun party presentation.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Cherry Kool-Aid Pie Recipe

Step 1: Beat the Cream Cheese to Perfection
Start by placing the softened 8 ounces of cream cheese in a medium mixing bowl. Using a handheld mixer on medium-high speed, beat it for about 1 minute. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s completely smooth, with no lumps left behind. This step ensures your filling will be nice and creamy.
Step 2: Mix in the Sweetened Condensed Milk
Next, add the entire 14-ounce container of sweetened condensed milk to the cream cheese. Continue mixing on medium speed for another minute. The mixture should look velvety and well combined, which means all that sweetness is perfectly blended now.
Step 3: Add the Black Cherry Kool-Aid Mix
Sprinkle the 0.13-ounce packet of unsweetened black cherry Kool-Aid mix into the bowl. Keep mixing until the filling has an even, vibrant cherry color throughout. This adds that signature fruity flavor without any additional sugar—just pure cherry goodness!
Step 4: Fold in the Cool Whip
Now gently add the 8-ounce container of thawed Cool Whip. Use your mixer on low speed to fold it in until smooth and fully integrated. This keeps the filling light and fluffy—exactly what you want to balance the tangy cherry notes.
Step 5: Fill the Crust and Chill
Spoon the creamy filling evenly into your 6-ounce pre-made graham cracker crust. Spread it gently with a spatula for a smooth top. Cover the pie tightly and pop it in the fridge for at least 4 hours. This chilling time sets the filling perfectly so it slices beautifully.
Step 6: Slice and Garnish Like a Pro
Once chilled and firm, carefully slice the pie into 8 equal wedges. For the garnish, put the extra 1 cup of Cool Whip into a decorator’s bag or a ziplock with a corner snipped off, then pipe a pretty swirl on the edge of each slice. Top each swirl with one maraschino cherry with stem to really make this pie pop.
Top Tip
Making the Cherry Kool-Aid Pie Recipe is wonderfully simple, but these little tips will help ensure every slice turns out perfectly creamy and bursting with cherry flavor.
- Smooth Cream Cheese: Beating the cream cheese until super smooth before adding anything else makes mixing the filling easier and prevents lumps.
- Uniform Color and Flavor: Sprinkle the Kool-Aid powder gradually while mixing to help it fully dissolve and give that gorgeous, even cherry color.
- Gentle Folding: When incorporating the Cool Whip, use the mixer on low or fold gently by hand to keep the filling light and fluffy.
- Keep It Chilled: Don’t skip the 4-hour chill time — it’s key to letting the pie set properly and making slicing neat and clean.
How to Serve Cherry Kool-Aid Pie Recipe

Garnishes
This pie is delightful with its classic Cool Whip swirls and bright maraschino cherries perched on each slice. For an extra fresh touch, you can add a few mint leaves or a sprinkle of finely chopped nuts on top. If you’re feeling adventurous, a drizzle of chocolate or cherry syrup also pairs beautifully with the creamy filling.
Side Dishes
Keep things light and summery by serving slices alongside fresh fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A crisp lemonade or an iced tea complements the sweet, tangy flavors perfectly for a refreshing dessert experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Cherry Kool-Aid Pie, store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to 4 days. Using the plastic lid from the graham cracker crust (after removing the paper center) makes for a handy cover that locks in freshness.
Freezing
You can freeze the pie for longer storage — just be sure to remove the Cool Whip swirls and cherries first. Wrap the pie tightly with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, and if you’re using the plastic crust lid, cover the pie with a layer of foil over it for extra protection. Freeze for up to 1 month, then thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
This is a no-bake, chilled pie, so reheating isn’t necessary. Simply keep the pie chilled in the refrigerator until ready to serve for the best texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute any Kool-Aid flavor you love. Just match the garnish to the flavor for the best presentation, like strawberries for strawberry Kool-Aid or lemon slices for lemonade flavor.
Yes, the 4-hour refrigeration is essential to let the filling set firmly so the pie slices cleanly and holds its shape. It also helps develop the flavors fully.
Definitely. This pie is perfect for make-ahead dessert plans since it requires minimal prep and benefits from resting in the fridge. Just prepare it a day in advance for stress-free entertaining.
Stored properly covered, your Cherry Kool-Aid Pie will stay fresh for up to 4 days refrigerated. Just keep it chilled between servings!
Final Thoughts
This Cherry Kool-Aid Pie Recipe is one of those joyful summer treats—a simple, no-bake dessert with bright cherry flavor and creamy texture that everyone can enjoy. Whether you're cooling down after a sun-soaked day or looking for an easy crowd-pleaser at your next gathering, this pie delivers on both flavor and fun with minimal fuss. Treat yourself, your family, and your friends to a slice (or two!) and savor that nostalgia with every bite.
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Cherry Kool-Aid Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cherry Kool-Aid Pie is a no-bake, easy-to-make, and refreshing dessert perfect for hot summer days. Combining a pre-made graham cracker crust with a creamy filling flavored with unsweetened black cherry Kool-Aid and topped with cool whip and maraschino cherries, this pie serves 8 and requires minimal prep time with a chilling period to set.
Ingredients
Crust
- 6 ounce pre-made graham cracker crust
Filling
- 8 ounce cream cheese, softened
- 14 ounce container sweetened condensed milk
- 0.13 ounce packet unsweetened black cherry Kool-Aid mix
- 8 ounce container Cool Whip, thawed
Garnish
- 1 cup Cool Whip, thawed (optional, for garnish)
- 8 maraschino cherries with stems
Instructions
- Beat cream cheese: Using a medium-size mixing bowl and a handheld mixer on medium-high speed, beat the softened cream cheese for 1 minute until smooth.
- Add condensed milk: Add the sweetened condensed milk and continue mixing for 1 more minute until completely combined.
- Mix Kool-Aid: Sprinkle the unsweetened black cherry Kool-Aid mix into the mixture and continue mixing until the color is uniform.
- Incorporate Cool Whip: Add the thawed Cool Whip and mix on low speed until the pie filling is well incorporated and smooth.
- Fill crust and chill: Spoon the pie filling evenly into the graham cracker crust. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours to set.
- Slice the pie: Once chilled and firm, slice the pie into 8 equal pieces.
- Garnish slices: Using a decorator's bag or a quart size ziplock with a corner snipped off, pipe swirls of the extra Cool Whip on the edges of each slice.
- Add cherries: Place one maraschino cherry on top of each Cool Whip swirl. Keep the pie chilled until ready to serve.
Notes
- Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- You can freeze the pie (without Cool Whip and cherry garnish) for up to 1 month. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
- Any flavor of Kool-Aid can be substituted for the black cherry.
- You can use the plastic cover from the graham cracker crust as a lid for storage; remove the paper center in the lid to cover the pie.
- If freezing with the plastic lid, wrap the pie tightly with aluminum foil over the lid to prevent freezer burn.
- When using different Kool-Aid flavors, garnish with the corresponding fruit for best presentation.
- Keep the pie chilled until serving to maintain texture and freshness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (⅛ pie)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 30 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg


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