Chocolate Cream Pie: A Rich, Decadent Dessert

Chocolate Cream Pie is a silky, indulgent dessert that combines a smooth, chocolate filling with a buttery, flaky pie crust. Topped with whipped cream, this pie is perfect for any special occasion or as a luxurious treat to satisfy your chocolate cravings. It’s easy to make, but delivers a stunning, creamy dessert every time!

Ingredients

For the Pie Crust:

• 1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)

For the Chocolate Filling:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4 large egg yolks, beaten
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into cubes
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped

For the Whipped Cream:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the Chocolate Filling:

1. Cook the Chocolate Mixture:
   In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk, sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, whisking constantly. Once it starts to thicken, reduce the heat to low.
2. Add the Egg Yolks:
   Gradually add a small amount of the hot chocolate mixture into the beaten egg yolks, whisking constantly (this helps temper the eggs). Slowly pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan, whisking constantly. Continue to cook for 2-3 more minutes until the mixture is thick and bubbly.
3. Finish the Filling:
   Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the butter, vanilla extract, and chopped chocolate until smooth and creamy.

Assemble the Pie:

4. Fill the Pie Crust:
   Pour the chocolate filling into the pre-baked pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Let the pie cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.

Make the Whipped Cream:

5. Whip the Cream:
   In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
6. Top the Pie:
   Once the pie is fully set, spread the whipped cream on top of the chilled chocolate filling. Garnish with chocolate shavings or cocoa powder, if desired.
7. Serve:
   Slice and enjoy the rich, creamy goodness of your homemade chocolate cream pie!

Tips:

• For an extra rich flavor, add a pinch of espresso powder to the chocolate filling.
• Serve with extra whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an even more indulgent treat!