Description
This Easy Chocolate Cream Pie recipe features a smooth and luscious chocolate pudding filling cooked quickly in the microwave, nestled into a flaky baked pie crust, and topped with freshly whipped cream and chocolate shavings. It’s a no-fuss dessert perfect for chocolate lovers seeking a rich yet simple homemade treat.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pie:
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/3 cup cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons Dutch-processed cocoa powder
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups whole milk
- 3 large egg yolks
- 4 ounces (about 3/4 cup) 60 to 70% chocolate baking chips, wafers, or chopped chocolate
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (9-inch) pie crust, prepared and baked
For the Whipped Cream:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Chopped chocolate, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the pudding base: In a medium microwave-safe bowl, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, cocoa powder, and salt until combined. Stir in 1/2 cup of milk and whisk until smooth. Whisk in the egg yolks, then gradually add the remaining milk, mixing thoroughly.
- Microwave the pudding: Partially cover the bowl to allow steam to escape and microwave on high for 3 minutes. Remove, uncover, and whisk the mixture to ensure even heating. Cover again and microwave for another 2 minutes, then whisk to incorporate.
- Finish cooking the pudding: Continue microwaving in 45-second increments, whisking between each, until the pudding bubbles around the edges and thickens enough for the whisk to leave a ribbon trail. This should take a total of 6 to 8 minutes.
- Add chocolate, butter, and vanilla: Stir in the chocolate chips, butter, and vanilla extract until melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Fill the pie crust: Pour the warm chocolate pudding into the baked pie crust. Allow it to cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then refrigerate uncovered for at least 4 hours or until fully set and firm to the touch.
- Make whipped cream topping: Just before serving, beat the heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla in an electric mixer on medium-high speed until soft peaks form. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the chilled chocolate filling and garnish with chopped chocolate.
- Serve and store: Serve the pie the same day it is made for the best crust texture. Leftovers can be refrigerated loosely covered for up to 3 to 4 days but avoid freezing as the filling may separate.
Notes
- Use a pre-baked pie crust to prevent sogginess; a store-bought or homemade crust is acceptable.
- Microwave cooking times may vary depending on individual appliance wattage—monitor the pudding closely during the final increments.
- Ensure to whisk frequently while microwaving to avoid lumps and promote smooth texture.
- For best results, use high-quality bittersweet chocolate between 60-70% cacao.
- Consume the pie within a few days since the crust tends to become soggy over time.
- This pie does not freeze well due to potential filling separation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Microwave Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: chocolate cream pie, easy chocolate pie, microwave pudding pie, homemade chocolate pie, whipped cream pie
