Chocolate Pudding Pie Recipe

ByEmma

If you’re looking for a dessert that combines rich, velvety chocolate with a deliciously smooth, creamy filling, this Chocolate Pudding Pie recipe is sure to hit the spot. Perfect for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to more festive celebrations, this pie is a classic treat that never goes out of style.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this decadent pie:

  • 1 pre-baked pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 3 large egg yolks (beaten)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate (chopped or in chips)
  • Whipped cream (for topping, optional)
  • Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pudding Filling

In a medium saucepan, combine milk, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Whisk until the ingredients are well mixed. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly.

  • Pro Tip: Stir the mixture constantly to prevent the cornstarch from clumping and ensure a smooth texture.

Once it starts to simmer, continue stirring until it thickens. This may take 5-7 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the pudding coats the back of a spoon.

2. Add the Egg Yolks

In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks. Gradually temper the yolks by adding a small amount of the hot milk mixture to them, whisking constantly. Then slowly pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the rest of the hot mixture.

  • Pro Tip: Adding the hot liquid to the eggs slowly is crucial to prevent scrambling the eggs!

Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the pudding thickens to the consistency of a custard.

3. Incorporate the Chocolate and Butter

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the chopped chocolate (or chocolate chips) and unsalted butter. Stir until both are fully melted and the pudding becomes smooth and glossy.

  • Pro Tip: Use high-quality semi-sweet chocolate for a richer, more intense flavor.

Add vanilla extract and stir to combine. The chocolate pudding should now have a luxurious texture and flavor.

4. Cool the Pudding

Pour the pudding filling into the pre-baked pie crust. Gently tap the pie on the counter to remove any air bubbles, then smooth the top with a spatula.

Cover the pie with plastic wrap or wax paper, making sure it’s in direct contact with the surface of the pudding. This helps prevent a skin from forming on top as it cools.

  • Pro Tip: To prevent any mess or sticking, let the pudding set at room temperature for 30 minutes before transferring it to the fridge.

Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the filling to set completely.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Once the pudding has fully set, remove the pie from the fridge. Before serving, top it with whipped cream and garnish with chocolate shavings or a light dusting of cocoa powder for an extra touch of elegance.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Chocolate Pudding Pie

  • Pie Crust: A flaky, buttery crust is essential to balance the rich filling. You can use a store-bought crust for convenience, or try making your own for a fresh, homemade touch.
  • Temperature Control: When adding the egg yolks, always temper them with a bit of the hot pudding mixture first. This prevents them from cooking too quickly and turning into scrambled eggs.
  • Smooth Texture: Make sure to stir constantly during the cooking process to avoid lumps. If your pudding does end up lumpy, simply strain it before adding it to the pie crust for a silky smooth result.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Pudding Pie is the ultimate indulgence, with its rich filling and decadent chocolate flavor. It’s the kind of dessert that will impress at any gathering or provide the perfect sweet ending to a meal. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to satisfy a chocolate craving, this recipe is one to keep in your rotation. Enjoy!

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