Chocolate Cream Pie Recipe.

Introduction

A rich, silky, and indulgent chocolate cream pie with a buttery crust and fluffy whipped cream topping. This classic dessert is a chocolate lover’s dream, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Chocolate cookies

200 g (crushed)

Unsalted butter

100 g (melted)

Whole milk

500 ml

Heavy cream

200 ml

Granulated sugar

150 g

Cornstarch

30 g

Salt

¼ tsp

Egg yolks

3

Dark chocolate

150 g (finely chopped)

Vanilla extract

1 tsp

Heavy cream (for topping)

250 ml

Powdered sugar

20 g

Chocolate shavings

(for garnish)

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 4 hours 35 minutes

Yield: 8 servings

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 175°C. Mix crushed chocolate cookies with melted butter and press into a 23 cm pie dish. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
2. In a saucepan, whisk together milk, heavy cream, sugar, cornstarch, and salt over medium heat. Stir continuously until warmed.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks. Slowly pour some of the warm milk mixture into the yolks while whisking to temper them.
4. Pour the tempered yolks back into the saucepan and cook until the mixture thickens, stirring constantly. Remove from heat.
5. Add the chopped chocolate and vanilla extract, stirring until smooth. Pour the filling into the cooled crust.
6. Cover the surface with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours.
7. Whip heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Spread over the chilled pie and garnish with chocolate shavings.
8. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). In a mixing bowl, combine 200 g of crushed chocolate cookies with 100 g of melted unsalted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press this mixture firmly into a 23 cm pie dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. After baking, remove the crust from the oven and let it cool completely.

Step 2: Warm the Filling

In a medium saucepan, whisk together 500 ml of whole milk, 200 ml of heavy cream, 150 g of granulated sugar, 30 g of cornstarch, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir continuously until the mixture is warmed through and begins to steam.

Step 3: Temper the Egg Yolks

In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 egg yolks. Once the milk mixture is warm, slowly pour a small amount of it into the egg yolks while whisking vigorously to temper the yolks and prevent them from curdling.

Step 4: Cook the Filling

Pour the tempered egg yolks back into the saucepan with the remaining warm milk mixture. Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the saucepan from heat.

Step 5: Combine Chocolate and Flavoring

Add 150 g of finely chopped dark chocolate and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the thickened mixture. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the filling is smooth.

Step 6: Fill the Crust

Pour the chocolate filling into the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. To prevent a skin from forming on the surface of the filling, cover it with a sheet of plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until set.

Step 7: Prepare the Topping

Once the pie filling is set, make the topping by whipping 250 ml of heavy cream with 20 g of powdered sugar in a mixing bowl. Whip until soft peaks form.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Spread the whipped cream over the chilled pie and garnish with chocolate shavings. Serve slice by slice, chilled, and enjoy!

Notes

Storage Instructions

This chocolate cream pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover it loosely with plastic wrap to avoid absorbing any odors from the fridge.

Flavor Variations

For a touch of flavor, consider adding a splash of coffee or espresso to the chocolate filling for a mocha flavor, or a dash of peppermint extract for a minty twist.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this delightfully rich pie with fresh berries for added texture and flavor. A drizzle of chocolate sauce on top can also enhance the presentation.

Cooking Tips

Make sure to continually whisk the filling to avoid lumps. When adding the egg yolks, gradual incorporation of the warm mixture is key to preventing cooking the eggs too quickly.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration

Store the chocolate cream pie in the refrigerator. Cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing any odors. It can be kept for up to 3 days.

Freezing

If you wish to store the pie for a longer period, you can freeze it. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Note that the texture may change slightly after freezing.

Serving Suggestions

Garnishes

For an extra touch, serve slices of the pie with additional chocolate shavings, fresh berries, or a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce.

Beverage Pairing

Pair the chocolate cream pie with a glass of cold milk, coffee, or a dessert wine to enhance the chocolate flavor.

Portion Size

This pie serves 8 people. For larger gatherings, consider doubling the recipe and making two pies.

Nutritional Information

Calories

Each serving of the chocolate cream pie has approximately 350-450 calories, depending on the specific ingredients used.

Macronutrients

- Total Fat: 27 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugars: 20 g
- Protein: 4 g

Vitamins and Minerals

The pie also provides small amounts of calcium and iron, primarily from the chocolate and dairy ingredients.

Ingredient Substitutions

Chocolate Cookies

You can substitute chocolate cookies with graham cracker crumbs or any similar cookie variety if desired.

Unsalted Butter

If you need a dairy-free option, use coconut oil or margarine as a replacement for unsalted butter.

Heavy Cream

For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk in place of heavy cream.

Cocoa Powder

If you want a more intense chocolate flavor, consider adding unsweetened cocoa powder to the filling. Adjust sugar accordingly.

Sugar Alternatives

You may substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute, keeping in mind the differences in sweetness levels.

Cook Techniques

Crust Preparation

Combine crushed chocolate cookies with melted butter until well mixed. Press the mixture into a pie dish and bake to create a firm crust.

Tempering Egg Yolks

To prevent curdling, slowly pour a portion of the warm milk mixture into the egg yolks while whisking continuously. This technique warms the yolks gradually.

Thickening the Filling

Stir the milk mixture on medium heat until it thickens. This process requires constant stirring to ensure an even consistency and prevent burning.

Chilling the Pie

Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours. This step helps the filling set properly and enhances the flavors.

Whipping Cream

Beat heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. This creates a light and airy topping that complements the rich filling.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?

Yes, you can use other types of cookies such as graham crackers or Oreo cookies, but it may change the flavor slightly.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you don't have heavy cream, you can use a combination of milk and butter as a substitute, but the texture will be different.

How long will the pie last in the refrigerator?

The chocolate cream pie can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator if properly covered.

Can I make the pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pie a day in advance. Just be sure to keep it refrigerated until serving.

Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?

You can use dairy-free alternatives like coconut milk and dairy-free cream, but the taste and texture might differ from the original recipe.

Conclusion

This rich chocolate cream pie is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that satisfies any chocolate lover's craving. Its buttery crust, silky filling, and fluffy whipped cream topping create a harmonious dessert that is sure to impress at any gathering. Whether it's a holiday celebration or a casual get-together, this pie is a perfect ending to a meal and invites everyone to indulge in its creamy goodness.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Mint Chocolate Cream Pie

Add a refreshing twist to your chocolate cream pie by incorporating mint extract into the filling and topping it with whipped cream mixed with crushed mint candies.

Peanut Butter Chocolate Cream Pie

Swirl creamy peanut butter into the chocolate filling for a delightful combination of chocolate and peanut butter, and consider topping with crushed peanuts for added texture.

Espresso Chocolate Cream Pie

Enhance the chocolate flavor by adding espresso powder to the filling. This coffee-infused version offers a gourmet touch that is perfect for coffee enthusiasts.

Chocolate Hazelnut Cream Pie

Mix in hazelnut spread with the chocolate filling or incorporate crushed hazelnuts into the crust for a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate.

Caramel Chocolate Cream Pie

Drizzle homemade or store-bought caramel sauce on top of the chocolate filling before adding the whipped cream layer for a rich and decadent treat.

Fruit-Topped Chocolate Cream Pie

Bring freshness to your pie by adding a layer of fruits like raspberries or strawberries on top of the whipped cream, providing a lovely contrast to the chocolate richness.