Ingredients
1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk, divided1 ounce unsweetened chocolate1/2 teaspoon almond extract, divided1 frozen pie shell (9 inches), baked1 jar (10 ounces) maraschino cherries, drained1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened1 cup cold water1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped1/2 cup chopped toasted almondsChopped chocolate, optional
Preparation
In a small saucepan over low heat, cook and stir 1/2 cup milk and the chocolate until chocolate is melted and mixture is thickened, about 4 minutes. Stir in 1/4 teaspoon extract. Pour into pie shell; set aside.
Set aside eight whole cherries for garnish. Chop the remaining cherries; set aside. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until fluffy. Gradually beat in water and remaining milk. Beat in pudding mix and remaining extract. Fold in whipped cream. Stir in chopped cherries and almonds.
Pour over pie. Chill 4 hours or until set. Garnish with whole cherries and, if desired, chopped chocolate.
