A creamy, chocolate pie that is easy to make and tastes great.
introduction
This Chocolate Cream Pie is smooth, rich, and simple. It uses a pre-baked crust and a homemade chocolate filling. Chill it until it sets, then add whipped cream on top. The steps are clear and the result is a classic dessert everyone likes.
why make this recipe
Make this pie when you want a quick, impressive dessert without hard work. It comes together fast, uses few ingredients, and tastes like a bakery pie. If you like classic sweets, you might also enjoy this chipwich ice cream cake for another easy treat.
how to make Chocolate Cream Pie
Follow these simple steps to make the pie:
- Mix dry ingredients and add milk and cream. In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until smooth.
- Cook until thick. Heat the mixture over medium heat. Stir often. When it thickens and starts to boil, keep stirring for about 1 minute.
- Add chocolate and vanilla. Remove from heat. Stir in the chopped dark chocolate and vanilla until smooth.
- Fill the crust. Pour the hot chocolate filling into the pre-baked pie crust. Smooth the top.
- Chill to set. Cover with plastic wrap touching the filling to prevent a skin. Chill in the fridge at least 4 hours or until fully set.
- Serve with whipped cream. Add whipped cream on top before serving.
Ingredients :
- 1 pre-baked pie crust
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
- Whipped cream for topping
Directions :
- In a medium saucepan, mix the sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and starts to boil.
- Stir in the chopped dark chocolate and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- Pour the chocolate filling into the pre-baked pie crust.
- Cover with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until set.
- Once set, top with whipped cream before serving.
how to serve Chocolate Cream Pie
Cut the pie into slices. Serve chilled. Add a dollop or a piped border of whipped cream. You can add shaved chocolate or a light dusting of cocoa on the whipped cream for a pretty look. Serve with coffee or milk.
how to store Chocolate Cream Pie
Cover the pie with plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator. It stays good for 3 to 4 days. Do not freeze the pie with whipped cream on top. If you must freeze, freeze the filling-only pie for up to 1 month, then thaw in the fridge and add fresh whipped cream before serving.
tips to make Chocolate Cream Pie
- Use a pre-baked crust so the filling sets well.
- Stir constantly when cooking so the filling does not burn.
- Press plastic wrap onto the surface of the filling to stop a skin from forming.
- Chop the chocolate small so it melts quickly and smooths into the filling.
- Taste the filling after adding chocolate and vanilla; adjust a bit of salt or sugar if needed.
variation (if any)
- Use milk or semi-sweet chocolate for a milder flavor.
- Add a tablespoon of espresso or instant coffee for deeper chocolate taste.
- Make a chocolate-vanilla swirl by pouring half the filling with dark chocolate and half with white chocolate.
- Use a graham or chocolate cookie crust for a change in texture.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a homemade crust?
A: Yes. A homemade baked crust works well. Make sure it is fully baked and cooled before adding filling.
Q: Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
A: You can, but the filling will be a bit less rich. Heavy cream gives a creamier texture.
Q: How do I prevent lumps in the filling?
A: Whisk the dry ingredients well first. Add the milk and cream slowly and whisk constantly while heating.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes. Make the pie a day before serving and keep it chilled until ready. Add whipped cream just before serving.
Q: Is the pie safe to leave out?
A: No. Keep the pie refrigerated. Do not leave it out at room temperature for more than two hours.
Conclusion
For more ideas and step-by-step photos, see this detailed Chocolate Cream Pie guide from Tastes Better From Scratch. You can also compare notes with the classic version at Allrecipes Chocolate Cream Pie Recipe.
Chocolate Cream Pie
Ingredients
Method
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until smooth.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat. Stir often. When it thickens and starts to boil, keep stirring for about 1 minute.
- Remove from heat. Stir in the chopped dark chocolate and vanilla until smooth.
- Pour the hot chocolate filling into the pre-baked pie crust. Smooth the top.
- Cover with plastic wrap touching the filling to prevent a skin. Chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours or until fully set.
- Add whipped cream on top before serving.