The Ultimate Chocolate Cream Pie Recipe There is nothing more serious than a chocolate lover. Whether you make a classic homemade version or take a shortcut using the microwave, this rich dessert is sublime at a family gathering or special holiday. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll show you how to make the easiest, richest, creamiest chocolate cream pie that you’ll actually want to eat.

Ingredients for Chocolate Cream Pie Recipe

Now before we get into the details step-by-step instructions, let’s start with the ingredients that you will need for these chocolate cream pie. We’ll get into the crust, the filling and whipped cream topping.

For the Pie Crust:

You can use your favorite crust, but here are the most common options:

Oreo crust (or chocolate wafer crust)

Graham cracker crust

A traditional pie crust (blind-baked or homemade)

For the Filling:

This is where the magic happens! The filling can be made using either a stovetop or microwave method, depending on the time you have available. For the stovetop method, you’ll need:

• ½ cup sugar
• ⅓ cup cornstarch
• 2 tbsp Dutch-processed cocoa powder
• ⅛ tsp salt
• 3 cups whole milk
• 3 large egg yolks
• 4 oz (about ¾ cup) 60–70% chocolate baking chips or chopped chocolate
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Whipped Cream Topping:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Chopped chocolate (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chocolate Cream Pie

Making chocolate cream pie is easy enough, but there are a few steps to guide you to a smooth filling, a pie crust just how you like it, and a light and fluffy whipped cream topping. Below, we break down the steps for filling on the stovetop and in the microwave.

Method 1: Stovetop Chocolate Pudding Filling

This method creates a rich, custard-like filling for the pie, perfect for those who want a more traditional approach.

1. Prepare the Pie Crust:

   Option1: Pre-Baked Pie Crust: If you’re using a store-bought or homemade pie crust, ensure it is pre-baked and cooled before adding the filling.

   Option 2: Oreo or Graham Cracker Crust: Prepare the crust according to instructions and bake ahead of time. Let it cool completely.

2. Make the Chocolate Pudding Base:

   In a medium saucepan combine sugar, cornstarch, cocoa powder and salt with a whisk.

   Slowly whisk in ½ cup of the milk to form a smooth paste. This will help prevent lumps.

   Whisk in the egg yolks, then the remaining 2 ½ cups of milk.

   Cook over medium heat, whisking continuously, until beginning to thicken, 5–8 minutes.

   Once thickened, lower the heat and keep whisking for another minute.

   Add the Chocolate and Butter:

   Remove from the heat and add flour, chopped chocolate, butter and vanilla extract, mixing until chocolate is completely melted and mixture is smooth.

   Fill the Crust with the Filling:

   Pour the chocolate pudding mixture into the cooled pie crust and smooth the top with a spatula.

   Let it cool at room temperature for 1 hour.

   Chill in the refrigerator for about 4 hours (or overnight) until pie is fully set.

3. Make the Whipped Cream:
   • In a chilled mixing bowl, beat heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract on high speed until soft peaks form.
   • Spread the whipped cream over the chilled pie.
4. Garnish and Serve:
   • Top the whipped cream with chopped chocolate or chocolate shavings.
   • Serve and enjoy!

Method 2: Microwave Chocolate Pudding Filling

For those in a hurry or looking for a simpler version, the microwave method is a great alternative. It’s quicker and still delivers a rich, creamy filling.

1. Prepare the Pie Crust:

   See the stovetop method above for the bottom crusts notes, but be sure the pie crust is blind-baked and completely cool.

   To Make the Chocolate Pudding in the Microwave:

   In a microwave-safe bowl, whisk sugar, cornstarch, cocoa powder and salt together until fully combined.

   Stir in ½ cup milk and whisk until smooth.

   Whisk in the egg yolks, then the remaining 2 ½ cups milk.

2. • Loosely cover the bowl with a paper towel or plastic wrap and microwave on high for 3 minutes.

     Remix the mixture, and microwave for 2 additional minutes.

     Microwave in 45-second increments, stirring after each interval, until the pudding thickens and bubbles around the edges (about 6 to 8 minutes total).

3. Sift in the Dry Ingredients:

   Stir in chopped chocolate, butter and vanilla extract until blended.

   Fill the Pie Crust:

   Pour the hot chocolate pudding into the cooled pie crust, and let it cool at room temperature for 1 hour.

   Chill the pie for at least 4 hours (or overnight).

   Make the Whipped Cream:

   In a cold bowl, beat the heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

4. • Spread the whipped cream over the pie and garnish with chopped chocolate.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Below is the approximate nutritional breakdown for each serving of chocolate cream pie. Please note that the nutrition facts will vary depending on the specific ingredients used (e.g., type of chocolate or whipped cream) and portion size.

Tips for Perfect Chocolate Cream Pie

Here are a few helpful tips to ensure your chocolate cream pie comes out perfectly every time:

• Pick good chocolate: The taste of your pie is largely influenced by your chocolate choice. (The best flavor will come from using a quality dark chocolate (60-70%).

  Don’t leave out the cornstarch: It’s the key to thickening the filling. Just make sure to whisk it well into the milk so as not to leave lumps.

  Chill the pie: Allow the pie to chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight, if possible, to allow the filling to set and the pie to hold together.

  Whipped cream: Don’t over-beat the whipped cream. Soft peaks are ideal for spreading on top of the pie.

• Crust options: Feel free to experiment with different crusts, such as graham cracker, Oreo, or even a homemade pastry crust.

Conclusion

Our Chocolate Cream Pie is a classic dessert with three layered components: deep, dark chocolate pudding filling, buttery, flaky crust, and light, fluffy whipped cream. And whether you favor a speedy microwave approach or a classic stovetop method, it’s indulgent perfection in every bite. It’s a crowd-pleasing treat that’s great for holidays, special occasions or just dessert on a weeknight.

Feel free to experiment with different crusts, chocolates, and toppings, but most importantly, enjoy the process of creating this decadent pie