If you’ve been dreaming of a dessert that’s richly indulgent yet utterly comforting, this Chocolate Cream Pie Recipe is going to be your new best friend. It boasts a luscious, silky chocolate filling nestled in a buttery deep-dish crust, all topped with a cloud of softly whipped cream. Every bite melts in your mouth with just the right balance of chocolatey goodness and creamy smoothness. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just treating yourself on an ordinary day, this pie feels like a warm, delicious hug.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Chocolate Cream Pie Recipe lies in its straightforward, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role: the pie crust forms a perfect buttery base, the chocolate filling is silky and decadent, and the whipped cream topping adds a light, fluffy finish that complements the richness beautifully.
- 1 (9-inch) deep-dish pie crust (baked and cooled): Provides a sturdy and flaky foundation to hold all the creamy filling.
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps smooth out the chocolate mixture.
- 1â…“ cups semisweet chocolate (chopped): The hero of the dish, giving it that intense, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate flavor.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Brings out the chocolate’s natural sweetness and rounds out the flavor.
- â…” cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling just right without overpowering the chocolate.
- 3 Tbsp cornstarch: Thickens the filling perfectly so it sets beautifully in the pie shell.
- 2 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder: Deepens the chocolate flavor and adds color.
- 1/8 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 3 large egg yolks: Gives the filling a rich, custardy texture.
- 1 cup heavy cream (divided): Used in both the filling and the topping to keep things luxuriously creamy.
- 2 cups milk: Lightens the filling while preserving richness.
- ¼ cup confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream topping delicately.
- ½ tsp vanilla extract: Adds a subtle fragrant note to the whipped cream.
How to Make Chocolate Cream Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Mixture
Start by placing the chopped semisweet chocolate, butter, and vanilla extract into a mixing bowl. This will be your base for the filling. Setting it aside now gives you a smooth surface to pour your cooked custard onto later, allowing the chocolate to melt perfectly for that rich texture we all love.
Step 2: Whisk Together Dry Ingredients and Egg Yolks
Whisk the granulated sugar, cornstarch, cocoa powder, and salt together in a medium saucepan while it’s off the heat. Gradually incorporate 1/4 cup of cold heavy cream at a time until the mixture is silky and lump-free. Now, add the egg yolks, which are going to turn this into the luscious custard that makes this Chocolate Cream Pie Recipe so irresistible.
Step 3: Cook the Custard
Place the saucepan over medium heat and slowly whisk in the remaining cream and the milk. Keep whisking constantly as the mixture heats up — patience here ensures your pudding will be perfectly smooth and thickened without any lumps. Once it comes to a boil and starts thickening, let it cook for an extra minute to develop that custardy body.
Step 4: Combine Custard with Chocolate Base
Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately pour the hot custard over the prepared chocolate mixture. Whisk energetically until the chocolate is fully melted and the filling is perfectly smooth, luxuriously glossy, and ready to chill.
Step 5: Chill the Filling
To keep the filling from forming a skin as it cools, place plastic wrap or buttered parchment paper directly on its surface. Then refrigerate thoroughly until it’s completely set, usually at least a few hours or overnight — this step is essential for that firm yet creamy texture.
Step 6: Make the Whipped Cream Topping
For that final fluffy touch, whip the remaining heavy cream in a chilled bowl until soft peaks begin to form. Add the confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract, then continue whipping until the cream holds medium peaks. This topping adds a dreamy sweetness and lightness to balance the rich filling perfectly.
Step 7: Assemble the Pie
Once the filling is fully chilled and set, carefully spoon it into the cooled deep-dish pie crust. Smooth the top with a spoon or spatula. Then crown your pie generously with the whipped cream—either dolloped spoonfuls or pretty piped swirls, depending on your mood. Chill the entire pie until you’re ready to slice and serve.
How to Serve Chocolate Cream Pie Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your pie’s presentation and flavor, consider adding a few simple garnishes. A light dusting of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings adds an elegant touch. For a bit of crunch and contrast, sprinkle some toasted nuts or crushed cookies on top. Fresh berries also bring a lovely burst of color and a hint of tartness.
Side Dishes
While this pie is a satisfying dessert all on its own, pairing it with fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream complements the richness and adds some balance. A small cup of espresso or a glass of dessert wine can also enhance the chocolate experience beautifully, rounding out the indulgence.
Creative Ways to Present
Change things up by serving individual chocolate cream pie parfaits in clear glasses, layering crust crumbs, chocolate filling, and whipped cream. For a fun twist, drizzle caramel or raspberry sauce on top for extra flair. You might also try adding a few mint leaves or edible flowers for a charming, restaurant-worthy look.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Chocolate Cream Pie Recipe tastes fantastic even the next day. Keep leftovers covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This ensures the pie stays moist and creamy without absorbing fridge odors.
Freezing
If you want to make this pie ahead for a special occasion, it freezes well without losing its indulgent texture. Wrap it carefully with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and add fresh whipped cream topping before serving for best results.
Reheating
Since this is a chilled dessert, reheating isn’t necessary and can ruin the pie’s delicate texture. Just serve it cold straight from the fridge or after thawing if frozen — that cool temperature is part of its charm.
FAQs
Can I use a store-bought pie crust for this Chocolate Cream Pie Recipe?
Absolutely! A good-quality store-bought deep-dish pie crust works perfectly and saves time, just be sure to bake it fully before adding the filling to keep the crust crisp.
What type of chocolate is best for this pie?
Semisweet chocolate is ideal because it balances the sweetness without overpowering the creaminess, but you can also experiment with bittersweet for a richer edge or milk chocolate for a sweeter twist.
Can I make this pie vegan or dairy-free?
This recipe relies heavily on dairy for its creamy texture, but you can try substituting coconut cream for heavy cream and a plant-based milk for regular milk, along with dairy-free chocolate. The results will be delicious but slightly different in texture.
How long should I chill the pie before serving?
To get the best consistency, chill the pie for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This helps the filling set firm enough to slice cleanly.
Is it possible to make this pie without eggs?
The egg yolks provide important structure and creaminess in the filling, so removing them would change the texture. If you need to avoid eggs, consider a custard made with cornstarch and dairy only, but it won’t be quite the same as in this classic Chocolate Cream Pie Recipe.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something so special about a well-made chocolate cream pie: it’s comforting, dreamy, and feels like a little celebration every time you take a bite. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this Chocolate Cream Pie Recipe as much as I do. It’s perfect for those moments when you want to indulge yourself or impress loved ones with an irresistibly luscious dessert.
Print
Chocolate Cream Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This rich and decadent Chocolate Cream Pie features a smooth chocolate custard filling nestled in a buttery baked deep-dish pie crust, topped with fluffy homemade whipped cream. Made with quality semisweet chocolate, cocoa powder, and cream, it is the perfect dessert to satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 (9-inch) deep-dish pie crust, baked and cooled
Chocolate Filling
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 1â…“ cups semisweet chocolate, chopped
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- â…” cup granulated sugar
- 3 Tbsp cornstarch
- 2 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1 cup heavy cream, divided
- 2 cups milk
Whipped Cream Topping
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup confectioners’ sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare chocolate mixture: Place the chopped semisweet chocolate, unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract in a 2-quart mixing bowl. Set aside while you prepare the custard base.
- Mix dry ingredients and yolks: In a medium saucepan away from heat, whisk together the granulated sugar, cornstarch, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually whisk in ¼ cup cold heavy cream until smooth with no lumps. Repeat with another ¼ cup heavy cream. Whisk in the 3 large egg yolks until combined.
- Cook custard base: Place the saucepan over medium heat and slowly whisk in the remaining ½ cup heavy cream and 2 cups milk. Continuously whisk as the mixture heats up and thickens. Bring it to a boil and maintain for 1 minute, whisking constantly to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth thick custard.
- Combine custard and chocolate: Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately pour the hot custard mixture over the reserved bowl of chopped chocolate, butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk vigorously until the chocolate and butter have melted completely and the filling is smooth and glossy.
- Chill filling: Place plastic wrap or buttered parchment paper directly on the surface of the chocolate filling to prevent a skin from forming. Chill the mixture thoroughly in the refrigerator until fully set.
- Prepare whipped cream topping: In a chilled mixing bowl, pour 1 cup cold heavy cream. Whip with a whisk or electric mixer until the cream starts to thicken and whisk marks hold. Add the confectioners’ sugar and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, then continue whipping until soft to medium peaks form.
- Assemble the pie: Transfer the chilled chocolate filling into the cooled baked pie crust. Use the back of a spoon or an offset spatula to level and smooth the filling surface. Spoon or pipe the freshly whipped cream decoratively over the top.
- Final chill and serve: Refrigerate the assembled pie until fully chilled and set, at least 1 hour. Serve cold for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the pie crust is fully baked and cooled before filling to prevent sogginess.
- Whipping the cream in a chilled bowl helps achieve a better texture.
- Placing plastic wrap directly on the filling prevents skin formation which can affect the pie’s smoothness.
- For a deeper chocolate flavor, use high-quality semisweet chocolate.
- Pie can be refrigerated for up to 2 days for optimal freshness.
