If you’re craving a slice of pure, nostalgic decadence, Chocolate Cream Pie delivers every dreamy bite. Silky-smooth, luscious chocolate custard rests in a buttery pie crust, capped with a cloud of fresh whipped cream and a sprinkling of chocolate shavings. This pie isn’t just a treat for chocolate lovers—it’s a feast for all your senses, from the glossy sheen of the chocolate filling to the irresistible aroma wafting from your refrigerator while it chills. Whether you serve it at a holiday gathering or sneak a forkful at midnight, this classic dessert never fails to speak to the heart.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Chocolate Cream Pie is how it turns a handful of simple ingredients into something magical. Each component—from creamy milk to deep, rich chocolate—plays a starring role in creating this showstopping dessert that’s as impressive as it is approachable.
- 1 9-inch pre-baked pie crust: Provides the crisp, golden shell that anchors the velvety chocolate filling—homemade or store-bought will work just fine.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the custard base and brings out the chocolate’s natural flavor notes.
- 1/4 cup cornstarch: This thickening agent ensures a firm yet creamy texture for that perfect custard slice.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch, but it heightens flavor and balances the sweetness nicely.
- 3 cups whole milk: Adds richness and sets the creamy tone of the filling—you want the full-fat version here.
- 4 large egg yolks: These give the custard its body and signature silkiness.
- 6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate (chopped): The star of the show—choose good quality chocolate for an exceptional filling.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Lends extra gloss and smoothness to the chocolate cream.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic finish that rounds out the chocolate flavor.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream: Whipped to plush peaks, it’s the ideal soft topper for the pie.
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the homemade whipped cream.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Just a hint for flavoring the whipped cream itself.
- Chocolate shavings for garnish (optional): Make your pie look irresistibly bakery-worthy with curls or shavings on top.
How to Make Chocolate Cream Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Custard Base
Start by whisking together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a medium saucepan. This blend is the foundation of your creamy chocolate filling, ensuring every bite is perfectly sweet and buttery-smooth throughout. Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure your mixture stays lump-free and glossy.
Step 2: Thicken the Mixture
Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly with a heatproof spatula or whisk. The transformation happens in about 8 to 10 minutes—watch as the liquid thickens and begins to bubble gently. This signals your base is ready for the next rich step.
Step 3: Temper the Egg Yolks
In a separate bowl, lightly beat your egg yolks. To avoid curdling, gently whisk about 1/2 cup of that hot milk mixture into the yolks, tempering them. This slow introduction brings the eggs to temperature smoothly—no scrambled eggs here! Pour the warmed eggs back into the saucepan and continue to cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the custard is decadently thick.
Step 4: Melt Chocolate and Finish the Cream
Take the saucepan off the heat and immediately stir in the chopped semi-sweet chocolate, butter, and vanilla extract. The heat will melt everything into a shiny, sumptuous filling—keep stirring until you can’t resist sneaking a taste.
Step 5: Fill and Chill
Pour the chocolate mixture into your pre-baked pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. To prevent a skin from forming on the custard, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface. Now comes the hardest part: refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the pie is fully set and sliceable.
Step 6: Whip and Top with Cream
While your Chocolate Cream Pie chills, whip together heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl until soft, fluffy peaks form. Once the pie is completely chilled, gently spread or pipe the whipped cream over the surface for a pillowy crown. Finish with a flourish of chocolate shavings if desired.
How to Serve Chocolate Cream Pie
Garnishes
Chocolate Cream Pie shines with a simple garnish of dark chocolate curls or shavings—but you can take it up a notch with a light dusting of cocoa powder, fresh berries, or even a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for a touch of gourmet flair. The topping not only makes the pie look stunning, it adds extra texture and flavor with every bite.
Side Dishes
Although this pie is perfectly satisfying on its own, pairing it with fresh strawberries or a bright citrus salad can add a burst of freshness to balance its richness. For a more celebratory spread, consider serving alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a cup of robust espresso.
Creative Ways to Present
Go beyond the classic slice and create parfaits by layering cubes of Chocolate Cream Pie with whipped cream in pretty glasses. For parties, use mini tart shells for individual servings, or drizzle each plate with homemade raspberry or caramel sauce for that extra-special touch. However you serve it, the pie will steal the spotlight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got leftovers? Simply cover the pie with plastic wrap or foil, being careful not to smush the whipped cream, and refrigerate. Chocolate Cream Pie will stay delicious for up to three days—though it rarely lasts that long!
Freezing
If you want to make this dessert even further in advance, freeze the pie (without whipped cream) tightly wrapped for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and add the whipped topping just before serving for best texture.
Reheating
Chocolate Cream Pie is meant to be served cold, so there’s no need to reheat. In fact, giving it time in the fridge (even overnight) only enhances the flavor and texture. For the perfect bite, let chilled slices sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Dessert
Absolutely! While semi-sweet chocolate is classic, you can use dark chocolate for a more bittersweet finish, or even a combination of milk and dark to suit your taste. Just make sure the chocolate is good quality to ensure that deep, satisfying flavor.
Is it possible to make Chocolate Cream Pie gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use your favorite gluten-free pre-baked pie crust and double-check that your cornstarch and chocolate are certified gluten-free. The filling is naturally gluten-free, so everyone can indulge.
What if I don’t have cornstarch?
If you’re out of cornstarch, you can substitute with the same amount of arrowroot powder or about twice the amount of all-purpose flour. Keep in mind that the thickening power and texture may vary slightly, but your pie will still set beautifully.
Can I make Chocolate Cream Pie in advance?
Definitely! In fact, this pie is best when it has several hours (or even overnight) to chill. Prepare it up to two days in advance and store it in the fridge; just top with whipped cream and garnishes before serving.
Why did my chocolate filling turn out lumpy?
Lumps often happen if the mixture heats too quickly or isn’t whisked consistently. Be sure to stir constantly, especially after adding the eggs, and don’t rush the thickening process. If lumps develop, pour the custard through a fine mesh sieve before adding it to the crust.
Final Thoughts
I can’t think of a more soul-satisfying dessert than Chocolate Cream Pie, with its luscious filling and billowy cream topping. If you haven’t tried making it at home yet, now’s the time—the process is easier than you think, and the results are guaranteed to impress everyone at the table. Treat yourself and your loved ones to a slice (or two); you’ll be hooked from the very first bite!
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Chocolate Cream Pie Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 8 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and creamy decadence of this Chocolate Cream Pie. A luscious chocolate filling nestled in a flaky pie crust, topped with billowy whipped cream and chocolate shavings, this dessert is a true delight for chocolate lovers.
Ingredients
Pie Crust:
- 1 9-inch pre-baked pie crust
Chocolate Filling:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups whole milk
- 4 large egg yolks
- 6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whipped Cream Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Chocolate Filling: In a saucepan, combine sugar, cornstarch, salt, and milk. Cook until thickened. Temper egg yolks, then add to mixture. Stir in chocolate, butter, and vanilla until smooth. Pour into pie crust.
- Chill: Cover filling with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- Make Whipped Cream: Whip cream with sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
- Finish Pie: Spread whipped cream over pie and garnish with chocolate shavings.
Notes
- Consider using dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- You can use a homemade or store-bought pie crust for convenience.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake (with pre-baked crust)
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
