Description
This classic Chocolate Cream Pie features a rich and creamy chocolate pudding filling made from scratch, poured into a prepared pie crust and topped with fluffy whipped cream and chocolate garnish. Perfect for chocolate lovers, this pie combines smooth, velvety chocolate custard with a buttery crust for an irresistible dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Pie Crust
- 1 Pie Crust (Prepared)
Filling
- ¾ cup sugar (granulated)
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 1 pinch salt
- 2 egg yolks
- 3 cups milk (whole)
- 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate (chopped, or dark chocolate)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- 2 cups whipped cream (optional)
- Additional chopped chocolate (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the pudding mixture: Whisk together the cornstarch, sugar, and salt in a medium bowl. Add the egg yolks and milk, whisking until the mixture is completely combined and smooth. Stir in the chopped semi-sweet chocolate evenly.
- Cook the pudding: Place the mixture in a saucepan and set over medium heat. Whisk constantly, using a spatula to scrape the edges to prevent sticking. Continue whisking carefully as the pudding thickens.
- Thicken the pudding: Cook the mixture for about 8 minutes until it reaches a thick custard consistency and large bubbles are forming and popping on the surface. Remove from heat immediately to avoid overcooking.
- Strain and finish the filling: Pour the pudding through a fine mesh strainer into a clean bowl, using a spatula to push all the thickened pudding through. This step ensures a smooth, silky texture. Whisk in the butter and vanilla extract until fully incorporated and fluffy.
- Assemble the pie: Pour the warm chocolate pudding into the prepared pie crust and smooth the surface with a spatula. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight to set completely.
- Add the topping and garnish: Once chilled, spread whipped cream evenly over the top of the pie using a spatula. Garnish with additional chopped chocolate for a decorative and flavorful finish. Keep the pie chilled until ready to serve.
Notes
- For best results, use a prepared but fully baked pie crust to avoid sogginess.
- Chilling the pie overnight enhances the flavors and helps the filling set properly.
- Use high-quality chocolate for a richer taste.
- You can substitute dark chocolate if you prefer a less sweet pie.
- Whipped cream is optional but adds a light contrast to the dense chocolate filling.
- To save time, prepare the pudding the day before and store it in the fridge, then fill the pie crust before serving.
