Chocolate Cream Pie
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10-12 full sheets)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Chocolate Filling:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups whole milk
- 4 large egg yolks
- 6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Whipped Cream Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Chocolate shavings or curls (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar.
- Add the melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool completely on a wire rack.
2. Make the Chocolate Filling:
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
- Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth.
- Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble, about 7-10 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks.
- Slowly whisk about 1 cup of the hot milk mixture into the yolks to temper them, then pour the yolk mixture back into the saucepan.
- Continue cooking over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture is thick and bubbly, about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the chopped chocolate, butter, and vanilla extract until the chocolate and butter are melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Pour the filling into the cooled crust. Cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the filling to prevent a skin from forming. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until set.
3. Make the Whipped Cream Topping:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the whipped cream over the chilled pie.
4. Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with chocolate shavings or curls if desired.
- Slice and serve chilled. Enjoy!
This Chocolate Cream Pie is rich, creamy, and sure to satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings.
