Here’s a simple and delicious Chocolate Pie recipe that combines a rich, creamy chocolate filling with a buttery crust. This dessert is perfect for any occasion and is sure to satisfy any chocolate lover!
Chocolate Pie Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 pre-made graham cracker crust (or you can use a regular pie crust)
- OR make your own with:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup melted butter
For the Chocolate Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- 4 large egg yolks
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate (chopped, or chocolate chips)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- Whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
- Shaved chocolate or chocolate curls (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
- If using a store-bought graham cracker crust: Skip this step and proceed to the filling.
- To make your own crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined.
- Press the mixture into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie dish, forming an even crust.
- Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes until golden brown. Let it cool completely before adding the filling.
2. Make the Chocolate Filling:
- Heat the Milk and Cream: In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream and whole milk. Heat over medium heat until it just begins to simmer, but do not boil. Remove from heat.
- Whisk the Egg Yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt until smooth.
- Temper the Egg Mixture: Slowly pour a small amount of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture while constantly whisking (this prevents the eggs from curdling). Gradually add the rest of the hot milk, continuing to whisk.
- Cook the Filling: Return the egg-milk mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the Chocolate: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the chopped semi-sweet chocolate (or chocolate chips), butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and the chocolate is completely melted.
- Cool the Filling: Let the chocolate filling cool slightly before pouring it into the cooled pie crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top of the filling.
3. Chill the Pie:
- Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until the filling is set and firm.
4. Serve the Pie:
- Before serving, top the pie with whipped cream and garnish with shaved chocolate or chocolate curls if desired.
Tips:
- For a richer filling, you can use dark chocolate or bittersweet chocolate for a more intense chocolate flavor.
- Whipped Cream: To make homemade whipped cream, beat 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tbsp of powdered sugar and 1 tsp vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Make-Ahead: This pie can be made a day ahead, making it a great option for parties or holidays.
Enjoy your rich, creamy Chocolate Pie – the perfect indulgence for any chocolate lover!