Craving a rich, creamy chocolate treat? This Silk Chocolate Pie delivers a luxurious dessert experience that’s surprisingly easy to make, perfect for any chocolate dessert recipe enthusiast. You’ll create a smooth, decadent filling set in a crisp crust, making a truly irresistible pie.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Pie Crust: Use a store-bought chocolate or graham cracker crust for ease, or make your own.
- Chocolate: Good quality semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped baking chocolate work best.
- Heavy Cream: Essential for richness; avoid light cream for this recipe.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds sweetness and creamy texture.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances chocolate flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 (9-inch) pre-made chocolate or graham cracker pie crust
- 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: Whipped cream or chocolate shavings for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes (includes chilling)
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Tools Needed: Medium saucepan, whisk, spatula, mixing bowl.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Melt the Chocolate
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and heavy cream. Stir constantly until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. Be careful not to let it burn.
2. Combine with Sweetened Condensed Milk
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well combined. The mixture should be thick and glossy.
3. Pour into Crust
Carefully pour the chocolate mixture into your prepared pie crust. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the bottom.
4. Chill Until Set
Place the pie in the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or until completely firm. This allows the chocolate dessert to set perfectly.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Once chilled, you can slice your Silk Chocolate Pie. Garnish with whipped cream or chocolate shavings if you like, and enjoy your delicious chocolate dessert.
Variation Ideas:
- Mint Chocolate: Add ½ teaspoon peppermint extract with the vanilla for a refreshing twist.
- Espresso Kick: Dissolve 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder in the heavy cream as it heats for a deeper chocolate flavor.
- Nutty Crust: Use a crust made with crushed chocolate cookies and pecans for added texture.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover Silk Chocolate Pie covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This chocolate dessert recipe is best enjoyed cold. Freezing is not recommended as it can alter the creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can you use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate, but your pie will be sweeter. Adjust the sweetness to your liking.
- What if the chocolate seizes?
If your chocolate mixture becomes grainy, try adding a tablespoon of hot heavy cream and whisking vigorously until smooth.
- Can you make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! This chocolate dessert recipe is perfect for making a day in advance as it needs significant chilling time.
- Why is my pie not setting?
Ensure you use full-fat heavy cream and sweetened condensed milk, as these are crucial for proper setting. Also, make sure it chills for the full recommended time.
- Can you make a gluten-free version?
Yes, simply use a gluten-free pie crust to make this a gluten-free chocolate dessert.
- How do you get clean slices?
For clean slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it clean between each cut.