During hot weather, nothing beats the satisfaction of indulging in cold desserts, and one of my absolute favorites is Chocolate Pie. This no-bake recipe is a velvety and delightful treat that brings joy without having to heat up the kitchen with the oven – a true win!
What makes this dessert even more enjoyable is involving the kids in the process. They eagerly lend a helping hand in making the crust and whipping up the cream, and adding the finishing touches of whipped cream and shaved chocolate is a source of great excitement for them. The joy of creating together in the kitchen not only creates sweet memories but also fosters a special bond, just as my mom did with me.
The versatility of this pie extends beyond its flavor. Making it gluten-free is a breeze, and it doesn’t require any extra effort or different processes. Whenever I prepare this pie for a cookout or gathering, I ensure it is gluten-free so that everyone can savor its deliciousness without any restrictions. The best part is, you can’t even taste the difference!
While this pie is a refreshing delight during hot weather, it’s worth noting that it’s a treat for all seasons. I have made it throughout the year, and its chocolate glory never fails to impress, no matter the occasion or weather.
In the end, this Chocolate Pie holds a special place in my heart and kitchen, not only for its irresistible taste but also for the joy it brings in sharing the experience with my kids. From the moment we start crafting the crust to the moment we savor the last bite, every step is an adventure filled with love and laughter.
So, whether it’s a summer cookout, a family gathering, or a simple weekday indulgence, this no-bake Chocolate Pie is a delight that satisfies the senses and warms the heart. It’s a timeless dessert that adds sweetness to life’s moments and continues to be a cherished favorite for me and my loved ones, all year round.
Ingredients
The Cookie Crust – Oreo or Graham Cracker
2 cups Oreo cookies or Graham Crackers (Regular or Gluten-Free) – crushed into crumbs
8 Tbsp. unsalted butter (1 stick) – melted
The Chocolate Ganache Filling
1 ¼ cups cane sugar
¼ cup cornstarch
¼ tsp. salt
3 cups whole milk or half and half (do not use lower fat percentages of milk, your chocolate filling mixture will not set up)
4 egg yolks, large
6 ½ oz. semi-sweet chocolate – chopped finely
2 tsp. bourbon vanilla extract or regular vanilla extract
2 Tbsp. butter – cut into smaller pieces
The Whipped Cream
1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
¼ cup confectioners’ sugar
1 tsp. vanilla extract
Garnish – optional
Shaved chocolate – Good quality
Directions
Crust
In a blender or a food processor, add Oreos or Graham Crackers and pulse until the mixture becomes a wet powder resembling set sand. Alternatively, you can crush by hand in a large and sturdy Ziplock bag with a rolling pin.
Melt the ¼ cup butter and mix with the crumbs.
Press evenly into a 9-inch, deep dish pie plate, and put in the freezer to chill for at least 1 hour.
Filling
Combine sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a medium saucepan, whisk to combine.
Add milk/half and half and egg yolks, whisk until lighter in color.
Place pan over medium low to medium heat, stirring constantly until mixture barely reaches a simmer, becoming thick – this will take about 8 minutes (if the doubling the recipe it will take about 15 minutes).
It will take a bit, but will suddenly start getting thick, like pudding. This is when you remove from heat.
Stir in chopped chocolate, butter, and vanilla extract, stirring until smooth and combined.
Let mixture cool for about 15 minutes – whisk occasionally so a skin does not form on the top.
The Pie
Retrieve the crust from the freezer – it needs to be very cold.
Pour chocolate pudding mixture into pie crust and let sit for 10 minutes on the counter.
Place in fridge uncovered to chill and set for 4 hours or overnight.
Whipped Cream
Place mixing bowl and the whisk attachments for a hand mixer in the freezer for about 15 minutes.
Pour cold heavy whipping cream, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract into the mixing bowl.
Using a hand mixer fitted with cold whisk attachments, whip on high speed until stiff peaks form.
Cover the mixing bowl, or scoop into a piping bag with a tip, and store in the coldest spot in the fridge.
Assemble and Serve
When the pie is set and cold, pipe the whipped cream over the top and sprinkle shaved chocolate if desired.
You can also cut into slices and add whipped cream and shaved chocolate to each slice.
Serve immediately!
Notes
• Freezing the Pie: You can freeze the pie – without the whipped topping – for up to 2 months – which means you can make an extra one and stash it away for when you need a quick dessert, or you need chocolate!
Wrap in plastic wrap and then with foil for a double layer. Freeze for up to 2 months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
• Storing the Pie: Cover loosely with plastic wrap – use toothpicks to keep it from squishing the whipped topping. Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Store-Bought Crust: If you use a store-bought pie crust, make sure you place in the freezer to get it very cold, and you will probably have leftover filling since these are not usually as deep.
• Shaved Chocolate Garnish: This makes for beautiful presentation. Choose a chocolate bar that is high quality chocolate and one with a higher percentage of cacao – it is firmer and easier to shave.
• Espresso Powder: Adding 1 tsp. of espresso powder with the chocolate when making the filling deepens the chocolate flavor. It is delicious but not required.
• Pie plate or Tart Pan: Make sure to use a deep-dish pie plate. A tart pan is another option and makes for a beautiful dessert. It also makes a graham cracker crust a little easier to cut.
• Cutting the Pie: If you run a sharp knife under hot water just before cutting the pie, the slices are smooth. Your first slice will likely crumble much like every other pie!
Conclusion:
No-Bake Chocolate Pie is a divine dessert that combines simplicity, velvety texture, and rich chocolate flavor in a perfect harmony. This delightful treat brings immense joy, especially during hot weather when the last thing you want is to heat up the kitchen with the oven.
The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its mouthwatering taste but also in the fun and bonding it creates when involving the kids in the kitchen. From making the crust to whipping up the cream, it becomes a delightful family activity that fosters precious memories and strengthens the connection between generations.
An added advantage of this pie is its gluten-free adaptability, making it a dessert that can be enjoyed by everyone without any taste difference or compromise on its delectable appeal.
As I prepare this no-bake pie for various occasions throughout the year, it never fails to impress and delight. Its chocolatey goodness knows no season, and it brings a smile to the faces of all who savor its delectable glory.
Whether it’s a cookout, a family gathering, or a simple treat to satisfy a sweet craving, No-Bake Chocolate Pie is a reliable and cherished favorite that leaves an indelible mark on every dessert lover’s heart.
So, whether you’re seeking relief from the summer heat or looking for a delightful dessert to share with loved ones, this no-bake chocolate pie is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its ease of preparation, heavenly taste, and family-friendly nature make it a timeless and treasured recipe that will continue to grace dessert tables and create sweet memories for years to come.