Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I sifted through the enticing aroma of chocolate wafting through my kitchen, I stumbled upon a moment of pure joy: a slice of Chocolate Cream Pie waiting to be devoured. This delightful dessert, featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, is a crowd-pleaser that effortlessly blends rich flavors and creamy textures—a true gem for any chocolate lover. The best part? You can whip it up in just 15 minutes and once chilled, it transforms into a luxurious treat that fits perfectly into any gathering or quiet night at home. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or indulge your sweet tooth, this easy no-bake pie promises an irresistible experience. Are you ready to create a heavenly dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds? Why is this Chocolate Cream Pie the best? Simplicity: This recipe requires just 15 minutes of prep and zero baking, making it perfect for busy home cooks. Decadent Experience: With a creamy chocolate filling and a crunchy graham cracker crust, this pie satisfies even the deepest chocolate cravings. Impressive Presentation: Topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, it’s not just delicious but also looks stunning for any occasion. Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment; try using an Oreo crust or a no-bake version for added fun! Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s a family get-together or a casual weeknight dessert, this Chocolate Cream Pie is sure to become a favorite, just like my Fudgy Chocolate Brownies or a comforting Chicken Pot Pie. Dive into a slice of sheer bliss with this irresistible treat! Chocolate Cream Pie Ingredients For the Graham Cracker Crust Graham crackers – The crunchy, sweet base that provides the perfect contrast to the creamy filling. Butter – Binds the crust ingredients while adding richness; use unsalted for better control. Granulated sugar – Sweetens the crust and helps it hold together; total of 1 cup is used in the recipe. For the Chocolate Filling Cornstarch – Thickens the filling; ensure you measure correctly for that perfect smooth texture. Salt – Enhances the flavor; just a pinch elevates the sweetness beautifully. Whole milk – Adds creaminess; for lighter fare, feel free to substitute with low-fat milk. Heavy cream – Essential for both the filling and the whipped topping, contributing to richness. Bittersweet chocolate chips – Provide the main chocolate flavor; dark chocolate can enrich it even further. Semisweet chocolate – Balances the sweetness for a well-rounded chocolate filling; freshly chopped yields a smoother mix. Egg yolks – Adds richness and helps set the filling; make sure they’re tempered properly to avoid scrambling. Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor; opt for pure vanilla for the best results. For the Whipped Topping Powdered sugar – Sweetens the whipped cream; you can skip this for a less sweet topping. Chocolate for shavings – A decorative garnish; use a vegetable peeler to create beautiful flakes. With these Chocolate Cream Pie ingredients, you’ll be on your way to creating a slice that’s simply indulgent! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Cream Pie Step 1: Prepare the Crust Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grab a 9-inch pie plate. In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, and granulated sugar until it resembles wet sand. Firmly press this mixture into the bottom and up the sides of the pie plate, using the back of a measuring cup for a smooth finish. Bake for 7-8 minutes until lightly golden, then allow to cool completely. Step 2: Create the Chocolate Filling In a large saucepan, whisk together granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt over medium-low heat. Gradually stir in the milk and 1 cup of heavy cream, along with the bittersweet chocolate chips and semisweet chocolate. Keep whisking continuously until the mixture thickens and reaches a gentle boil, about 1-2 minutes after boiling, becoming glossy and smooth. Step 3: Temper the Egg Yolks To prevent scrambling, temper the egg yolks by slowly adding small amounts of the hot chocolate mixture into them, whisking constantly. Once combined, pour the egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining chocolate filling. Cook on low heat for another 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously until the filling thickens and is smooth, then remove from heat. Step 4: Combine Flavors Stir in the vanilla extract, allowing its rich aroma to enhance the filling. Carefully pour this luxurious chocolate mixture into the cooled graham cracker crust, ensuring it evenly fills the base. Cover the pie with plastic wrap directly on the filling surface to prevent a skin from forming, then refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Step 5: Make the Whipped Topping When ready to serve the Chocolate Cream Pie, prepare the whipped topping by placing the remaining heavy cream in a mixing bowl. Beat with an electric mixer until soft peaks form, then gradually add powdered sugar while continuing to whip until stiff peaks are achieved. This delightful cream will add a fluffy contrast to the rich filling. Step 6: Garnish and Serve After the pie has chilled and set, remove it from the refrigerator. Generously spread or pipe the whipped cream on top for an inviting finish. For an elegant touch, garnish with chocolate shavings made using a vegetable peeler. Slice, serve, and enjoy this decadent Chocolate Cream Pie that promises to please every chocolate lover! Expert Tips for Chocolate Cream Pie Whisk Constantly: To prevent burning, ensure you keep whisking when cooking the chocolate filling. This step is essential for achieving that smooth, velvety texture. Temper Your Yolk: When incorporating egg yolks, remember to temper them slowly with hot chocolate mixture. This minimizes the risk of scrambling, ensuring a luscious filling. Chill Your Equipment: For fluffy whipped cream, chill the mixing bowl and beaters beforehand. It helps achieve the best volume and an airy texture for your topping. Even Crust Layer: Press the graham cracker crust mixture evenly into the pie plate. An even layer bakes consistently, providing the perfect base for your Chocolate Cream Pie. Refrigerate Overnight: While 4 hours is the minimum chilling time, letting the pie set overnight enhances flavor and texture, making it even more indulgent. Experiment with Crusts: Don’t hesitate to switch up your crust! An Oreo crust or a flaky homemade pie crust can add delightful twists to the classic Chocolate Cream Pie. Make Ahead Options These Chocolate Cream Pies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify their meal planning! You can prepare the graham cracker crust and make the chocolate filling up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen while you save precious time. Simply cover the pie with plastic wrap directly on the filling to prevent a skin from forming, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve. When it’s time to delight your guests, whip the remaining heavy cream, add a sprinkle of powdered sugar if desired, and spread it generously on top. This way, your Chocolate Cream Pie will be just as decadent and impressive, but with minimal last-minute effort! Chocolate Cream Pie Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative with your Chocolate Cream Pie! With just a few simple substitutions or twists, you can take this dessert to the next level. Gluten-Free Crust: Use gluten-free graham crackers or ground nuts for a delicious gluten-free crust that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Alternative Sweeteners: Swap granulated sugar for coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like stevia for a lower-calorie option. This can also add a unique flavor. No-Bake Option: If you prefer not to bake, try a no-bake filling using cold heavy cream and instant pudding mix, creating a lighter, airy dessert. Vegan Version: Substitute egg yolks with silken tofu or a chia seed mixture, and replace dairy with coconut milk and coconut cream for a luscious vegan treat. Flavor Boost: Add a splash of espresso or coffee to the chocolate filling for a mocha twist or a few drops of peppermint extract for a fresh, minty flavor. Nutty Crunch: Fold in some chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, into the filling for a delightful texture contrast. It adds a nice crunch that complements the creamy texture beautifully. Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle with homemade or store-bought caramel sauce before topping with whipped cream for a rich, sweet addition—a perfect pairing with chocolate. Personalize the Topping: Instead of traditional whipped cream, try a flavored whipped topping like hazelnut or almond for an exciting twist. These variations will help you showcase your creativity while still providing that delicious Chocolate Cream Pie experience. For more indulgent chocolate treats, be sure to check out my Dark Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake or some classic Fudgy Chocolate Brownies! What to Serve with Decadent Chocolate Cream Pie Pair this luxurious chocolate dessert with delightful sides and finishing touches for a complete celebration of taste. Fresh Berries: Their tartness perfectly balances the rich chocolate, adding a refreshing burst with every bite. Strawberries or raspberries can also elevate your dessert’s presentation. Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream on the side not only enhances the pie experience but adds a creamy texture that melts in your mouth. Espresso or Coffee: The bold flavors of coffee harmonize with chocolate’s richness, making it the perfect beverage pairing to elevate your dessert time. Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: A rich chocolate sauce on top creates an indulgent, luxurious touch, intensifying each decadent bite while adding an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal. Whipped Cream: Although it’s included on the pie, a dollop of freshly whipped cream alongside offers an airy contrast to the rich filling, making each slice feel even more indulgent. Nutty Biscotti or Cookies: A crunchy accompaniment, like almond biscotti or chocolate chip cookies, can add a delightful texture while complementing the dessert’s richness. Sparkling Water or Champagne: A refreshing sparkling drink can cleanse the palate between bites, enhancing the overall dining experience and adding a touch of celebration. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: For a sweet and salty twist, serve chocolate-covered pretzels on the side, providing a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the pie. How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Cream Pie Fridge: Keep leftover Chocolate Cream Pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the pie without the whipped cream topping for up to 2 months. Wrap securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the frozen Chocolate Cream Pie in the fridge overnight and add fresh whipped cream before serving for the best texture. Serving Tips: Always enjoy your pie chilled, as this enhances the rich flavors and creamy texture of the filling! Chocolate Cream Pie Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe ingredients for the Chocolate Cream Pie? Absolutely! For this recipe, while you won’t need ripe fruits, choosing high-quality chocolate is essential. Look for bittersweet or semisweet chocolate that has a rich aroma. Also, opt for fresh eggs and heavy cream that are within their expiration date for the best results. How should I store my Chocolate Cream Pie? Very! Keep any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help maintain the pie’s creamy texture and delightful flavor. I often use plastic wrap or an airtight container to keep it fresh. Can I freeze the Chocolate Cream Pie? If so, how? Absolutely! To freeze, omit the whipped cream topping and wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be kept for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and add freshly whipped cream before enjoying! What if my chocolate filling doesn’t thicken properly? No worries! If your filling doesn’t thicken as expected, it could be that the heat was too low or the mixture wasn’t whisked constantly. Try returning it to the heat and whisking vigorously until it reaches the desired thickness. If you find it still isn’t thickening, you can create a slurry by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold milk and stirring it into the filling while heating. Is this Chocolate Cream Pie safe for those with allergies? Definitely! However, note that it contains eggs, dairy, and gluten (from graham crackers). For a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free graham crackers. Always check ingredient labels for any potential allergens, especially if serving to guests with dietary restrictions. How do I add a personal twist to my Chocolate Cream Pie? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of crusts like an Oreo or chocolate cookie crust for a distinct flavor. You can also play with adding liqueurs to the chocolate filling—like peppermint or orange—before chilling for a delightful surprise! Decadent Chocolate Cream Pie That's a Breeze to Make Indulge in this easy Chocolate Cream Pie featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and creamy chocolate filling, perfect for any gathering. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 8 minutes minsChilling Time 4 hours hrsTotal Time 4 hours hrs 23 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Graham Cracker Crust1 cup Graham crackers, crushed5 tablespoons Unsalted butter, melted1 tablespoon Granulated sugarFor the Chocolate Filling3 tablespoons Cornstarch1 pinch Salt2 cups Whole milk or low-fat milk1 cup Heavy cream1 cup Bittersweet chocolate chips4 ounces Semisweet chocolate, chopped2 large Egg yolks tempered1 teaspoon Vanilla extract preferably pureFor the Whipped Topping1 tablespoon Powdered sugar optional for less sweetness1 bar Chocolate for shavings for garnish Equipment 9-inch pie plateMixing bowlSaucepanElectric mixerMeasuring CupWhisk Method Prepare the CrustPreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grab a 9-inch pie plate. In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, and granulated sugar until it resembles wet sand. Firmly press this mixture into the bottom and up the sides of the pie plate, using the back of a measuring cup for a smooth finish. Bake for 7-8 minutes until lightly golden, then allow to cool completely.Create the Chocolate FillingIn a large saucepan, whisk together granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt over medium-low heat. Gradually stir in the milk and 1 cup of heavy cream, along with the bittersweet chocolate chips and semisweet chocolate. Keep whisking continuously until the mixture thickens and reaches a gentle boil, about 1-2 minutes after boiling, becoming glossy and smooth.Temper the Egg YolksTo prevent scrambling, temper the egg yolks by slowly adding small amounts of the hot chocolate mixture into them, whisking constantly. Once combined, pour the egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining chocolate filling. Cook on low heat for another 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously until the filling thickens and is smooth, then remove from heat.Combine FlavorsStir in the vanilla extract, allowing its rich aroma to enhance the filling. Carefully pour this luxurious chocolate mixture into the cooled graham cracker crust, ensuring it evenly fills the base. Cover the pie with plastic wrap directly on the filling surface to prevent a skin from forming, then refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.Make the Whipped ToppingWhen ready to serve the Chocolate Cream Pie, prepare the whipped topping by placing the remaining heavy cream in a mixing bowl. Beat with an electric mixer until soft peaks form, then gradually add powdered sugar while continuing to whip until stiff peaks are achieved.Garnish and ServeAfter the pie has chilled and set, remove it from the refrigerator. Generously spread or pipe the whipped cream on top for an inviting finish. For an elegant touch, garnish with chocolate shavings made using a vegetable peeler. Slice, serve, and enjoy this decadent Chocolate Cream Pie that promises to please every chocolate lover! Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 4gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg NotesKeeping the pie chilled enhances the rich flavors and creamy texture of the filling. For best results, refrigerate overnight after preparing. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
