Hot Fudge Pie

If you’re craving a dessert that’s as indulgent as it is irresistible, look no further than the Hot Fudge Pie. This rich, gooey treat combines a luscious chocolate fudge filling with a buttery pie crust, creating a dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself, this Hot Fudge Pie is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your guests.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
• 1/4 cup ice water (more if needed)

For the Fudge Filling:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional, for extra gooeyness)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust:
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour and sugar.
3. Add the cold butter pieces and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Form the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
6. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

1. Roll Out the Dough:

• On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish.
• Gently transfer the dough to the pie dish, pressing it into the bottom and sides. Trim any excess dough.

1. Bake the Crust:

• Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans.
• Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the parchment and weights. Bake for an additional 5 minutes. Set aside to cool.

1. Prepare the Fudge Filling:
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
3. Stir in the sugar, cocoa powder, and salt until well combined.
4. Remove from heat and whisk in the eggs, one at a time, until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Fold in the flour until just combined. If using, mix in the chocolate chips.
6. Assemble and Bake:

• Pour the fudge filling into the pre-baked crust and smooth the top.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly gooey.

1. Cool and Serve:

• Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing.
• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of decadence.

Tips for Success

• Chill the Dough: For a flakier crust, ensure that the dough is well-chilled before rolling it out.
• Check for Doneness: The pie should be firm around the edges with a slightly wobbly center. It will continue to set as it cools.
• Customize Your Pie: Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the filling before baking for a delightful sweet-and-salty contrast.

Why You’ll Love Hot Fudge Pie

Hot Fudge Pie combines the best elements of chocolate desserts into one easy-to-make pie. Its rich, fudgy filling is a chocolate lover’s dream, while the buttery crust provides the perfect contrast. This pie is ideal for any event, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings, and it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Serving and Storage Tips for Hot Fudge Pie

Serving Tips

1. Allow to Cool: Let the Hot Fudge Pie cool completely before slicing. This helps the filling set properly and makes it easier to cut neat slices.
2. Warm or Cold: Serve the pie warm or at room temperature. For a warm treat, you can briefly reheat individual slices in the microwave or oven.
3. Accompaniments: Enhance the dessert experience by pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of extra hot fudge sauce. Fresh berries or a sprinkle of sea salt can also add a delightful contrast.
4. Garnishes: Consider garnishing each slice with a dusting of powdered sugar, chocolate shavings, or a few chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
5. Presentation: Serve slices on individual dessert plates or in bowls for a more elegant presentation. A light drizzle of caramel sauce can also elevate the visual appeal.

Storage Tips

1. Refrigeration: Store leftover Hot Fudge Pie in the refrigerator. Cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other flavors. It will keep well for up to 5 days.
2. Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze Hot Fudge Pie. Wrap the entire pie or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. The pie can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
3. Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the pie in the refrigerator overnight. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, but be cautious not to overheat as this can affect the texture.
4. Serving from Frozen: If you prefer, you can serve the pie straight from the freezer for a frozen treat. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to soften slightly before slicing.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Hot Fudge Pie remains delicious and enjoyable for days to come.

1. Can I use a store-bought pie crust instead of making my own?

Yes, you can use a store-bought pie crust if you prefer convenience. Just be sure to pre-bake it according to the package instructions before adding the hot fudge filling. This will help prevent the crust from becoming soggy.

2. Can I make Hot Fudge Pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! Hot Fudge Pie can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 2-3 months. If making in advance, be sure to cover the pie tightly to maintain its freshness. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving, and reheat if desired.

3. How do I know when the Hot Fudge Pie is done baking?

The pie is done when the edges are set and the center is slightly wobbly but not liquid. It will continue to set as it cools. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.

4. Can I add mix-ins to the fudge filling?

Yes, you can customize the fudge filling by adding mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or even a swirl of caramel or peanut butter. Just fold them into the filling before pouring it into the pre-baked crust. This will add extra flavor and texture to your pie.