Prepare to embark on a decadent journey of pure chocolate bliss with Lauren's Latest Chocolate Cream Pie - a dessert so irresistibly creamy and rich that it will have your family and friends begging for seconds! This isn't just another chocolate pie; it's a luxurious, silky-smooth experience that transforms simple ingredients into a masterpiece of culinary delight. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe promises to deliver a show-stopping dessert that looks like it came straight from a professional bakery.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pie crust
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 3/4 cups milk
- 4 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped cream for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the pie crust by placing the pre-made pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish. Crimp the edges decoratively and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt until well combined and no lumps remain.
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to create a smooth mixture without any dry ingredient clumps.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring continuously with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula to prevent scorching.
- In a separate bowl, carefully separate the egg yolks from the whites, whisking the yolks until they are smooth.
- When the milk mixture begins to thicken and bubble, temper the egg yolks by slowly adding a small amount of the hot mixture while whisking vigorously to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
- Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan, stirring constantly until the filling becomes thick and glossy, approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and immediately stir in the unsalted butter and vanilla extract until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Pour the hot chocolate filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Allow the pie to cool at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes, then cover the surface directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming.
- Refrigerate the pie for at least 3-4 hours or until completely chilled and set.
- Before serving, top the pie with generous dollops of whipped cream, creating decorative swirls or peaks.
- Slice and serve chilled, optionally garnishing with chocolate shavings or a light dusting of cocoa powder.
Tips
- Use high-quality cocoa powder for the most intense chocolate flavor.
- When tempering egg yolks, pour the hot mixture very slowly and whisk constantly to prevent scrambling.
- Make sure to use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent scorching the filling.
- Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the filling to prevent a skin from forming during chilling.
- For extra elegance, use a piping bag to create beautiful whipped cream decorations.
- Chill the pie for the full recommended time to ensure the perfect set and texture.
- For a professional touch, use a microplane to create delicate chocolate shavings for garnish.
- If you're short on time, you can use a store-bought whipped cream, but homemade always tastes better.
- Serve the pie well-chilled for the most luxurious texture and flavor experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 42g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 120mg
