Chocolate Cream Pie is the ultimate indulgence for chocolate lovers! This rich and creamy dessert combines a silky chocolate filling with a flaky pie crust and a generous topping of whipped cream. It’s a decadent treat that’s surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion, from dinner parties to a special weekend dessert.
Table of Contents
- Chocolate Cream Pie Recipe
- Ingredients for Chocolate Cream Pie
- How to Make Chocolate Cream Pie
- Tips for Making Chocolate Cream Pie
- Make-Ahead Instructions
- Storing Leftovers
- Freezing Chocolate Cream Pie
- Reheating Chocolate Cream Pie
- Serving Suggestions
- FAQs
- Try these chocolate cream pie related recipes next!
- Easy Chocolate Pudding Pie
- No-Bake Chocolate Cheesecake
- Chocolate Mousse Cupcakes
- Chocolate Banana Pudding
Chocolate Cream Pie Recipe
- Effortlessly Delicious. This Chocolate Cream Pie is not only rich and creamy, but it’s also easy to make, giving you a gourmet dessert without all the fuss. You can prepare this in under an hour, with most of the time spent just waiting for it to chill!
- Decadent Layers. The combination of a crunchy pie crust, smooth chocolate filling, and cloud-like whipped cream creates a dessert that excites the senses and delights the palate.
Ingredients for Chocolate Cream Pie
- Chocolate Pie Crust: A pre-baked pie crust that provides the perfect base for the creamy filling. You can use a store-bought or homemade crust.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the filling, balancing the rich chocolate flavor without overpowering it.
- Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder adds deep chocolate flavor and enhances the color of the pie.
- Milk: Essential for creating the creamy texture of the filling. Whole milk is recommended for richness.
- Eggs: Provides structure and helps thicken the filling as it cooks, resulting in a velvety texture.
- Butter: Adds richness and flavor, making the filling smooth and creamy.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the chocolate flavor with its aromatic sweetness, balancing the richness.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: Used for making the topping, providing a light and airy finish to the pie.
- Chocolate Shavings: Optional garnish for added texture and elegance when serving.
How to Make Chocolate Cream Pie
- Prepare the pie crust according to package instructions or your homemade recipe, then allow it to cool completely.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually stir in milk until well combined.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, constantly stirring until the sugar and cocoa are dissolved.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs until slightly beaten. Slowly add a few spoonfuls of the hot chocolate mixture to the eggs, whisking continuously to temper them.
- Pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan, then cook over medium heat while whisking until the mixture thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract until melted and incorporated. Allow it to cool slightly.
- Pour the chocolate filling into the prepared pie crust and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
- Before serving, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form and spread it over the set chocolate filling.
- Garnish with chocolate shavings, slice, and enjoy your delicious Chocolate Cream Pie!
Tips for Making Chocolate Cream Pie
- Use High-Quality Chocolate: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate brands.
- Let it Chill: Don’t rush the chilling process; letting it sit overnight improves the texture and flavor.
- Stir Constantly: While cooking the filling, be sure to stir constantly to avoid lumping and scorching.
Make-Ahead Instructions
- You can prepare the chocolate filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to pour into the crust.
- The whipped cream topping can also be made ahead and refrigerated separately.
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Chocolate Cream Pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the pie has not been sliced, cover it loosely with plastic wrap to prevent the crust from becoming soggy.
Freezing Chocolate Cream Pie
- If you want to freeze your pie, make sure it’s completely set and chilled.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating Chocolate Cream Pie
- Chocolate Cream Pie is best enjoyed cold; reheating is not recommended as it can affect the texture.
- Allow it to come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving if it has been frozen.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a slice of Easy Chocolate Pudding Pie for a double chocolate treat!
- Pair with No-Bake Chocolate Cheesecake for an elegant dessert spread.
FAQs
Can I use a store-bought pie crust?
Absolutely! A store-bought crumb crust will save you time and will work perfectly for this recipe.
How long does it take for the pie to set?
It typically takes at least 4 hours in the refrigerator to set properly.
Can I make this pie without eggs?
Yes, you can substitute the eggs with cornstarch as a thickening agent if you prefer a vegan version.
How do I know when the filling is thick enough?
The filling should coat the back of a spoon and hold its shape when you run your finger through it.
Can I add other flavors to the filling?
Definitely! You can add a dash of peppermint extract for a minty twist or espresso powder for a mocha flavor.
Try these recipes next!
Easy Chocolate Pudding Pie
No-Bake Chocolate Cheesecake
Chocolate Mousse Cupcakes
Chocolate Banana Pudding
Chocolate Cream Pie
- Total Time: 4+ hours chilling
- Yield: 8 servings
Description
Decadent Chocolate Cream Pie made with a chocolate filling in a flaky crust and topped with fresh whipped cream.
Ingredients
- Chocolate Pie Crust
- Granulated Sugar
- Cocoa Powder
- Milk
- Eggs
- Butter
- Vanilla Extract
- Heavy Whipping Cream
- Chocolate Shavings (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the pie crust according to package instructions and let cool.
- In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, cocoa, and salt. Gradually stir in milk.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly.
- Temper the eggs with the hot chocolate mixture, then add back to saucepan.
- Cook until thickened, then remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla.
- Pour into crust and refrigerate until set.
- Whip cream and spread over set filling, garnish with chocolate shavings if desired.
Notes
- Use high-quality cocoa for best flavor.
- Let chill overnight for improved texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Refrigerate, Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 175mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: Chocolate Cream Pie, Pie, Dessert
