Pumpkin haters, this dark chocolate chess pie is the perfect Thanksgiving dessert for you! My homemade all-butter pie crust serves as the most delicious vessel for a creamy, custardy dark chocolate filling. Indulging in this decadent treat makes any occasion feel special, whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy family dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: The rich combination of dark chocolate and bittersweet cocoa creates an irresistible taste that will delight any chocolate lover.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this stunning dessert without stress.
- Versatile Dessert: Perfect for Thanksgiving, birthdays, or just a weekend treat, this pie suits any celebration or casual get-together.
- Impressive Presentation: The glossy top and deep chocolate color make it an eye-catching centerpiece on your dessert table.
- Custardy Texture: The unique custard-like filling brings a delightful softness that contrasts beautifully with the flaky crust.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience. Having the right equipment ready will help you achieve the best results for your dark chocolate chess pie.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Pie dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rolling pin
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Pie dish: Essential for shaping and holding the pie as it bakes to perfection.
- Mixing bowls: Needed for combining ingredients efficiently without spills.
- Whisk: Helps incorporate air into the filling for a light texture.
- Rolling pin: Makes it easy to roll out the dough evenly for a flawless crust.
Ingredients
For this delicious dark chocolate chess pie, gather the following ingredients:
For the Pie Crust
- 200 g all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 140 g unsalted butter (cold)
- 24 g vodka (optional)
- 1 cup ice water
For the Filling
- 113 g unsalted butter
- 56 g bittersweet chocolate
- 21 g dutch process cocoa powder
- 1 tsp espresso powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 113 g whole milk
- 200 g granulated sugar
- 106 g dark brown sugar
- 25 g cornmeal
- 4 eggs (room temp)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
How to Make Dark Chocolate Chess Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
- In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and kosher salt.
- Cut in cold unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in vodka (if using) and ice water until combined.
- Shape dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare the filling.
Step 3: Make the Filling
- In a saucepan over low heat, melt unsalted butter and bittersweet chocolate together until smooth.
- Remove from heat and whisk in cocoa powder, espresso powder, and salt until well combined.
- Add whole milk, granulated sugar, dark brown sugar, cornmeal, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
- Roll out your chilled pie crust on a floured surface to fit your pie dish.
- Transfer crust to the dish and trim excess edges; crimp as desired.
- Pour the prepared filling into the crust evenly.
Step 5: Bake
Bake in preheated oven for about 90 minutes or until set in center but slightly jiggly.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow your dark chocolate chess pie to cool completely before slicing. Enjoy every rich bite!
How to Serve Dark Chocolate Chess Pie
Dark chocolate chess pie is a rich and indulgent dessert that pairs beautifully with various accompaniments. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or an intimate dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your dessert experience.
With Whipped Cream
- Light and airy whipped cream adds a delightful contrast to the dense filling of the pie. You can make your own by beating heavy cream until soft peaks form and adding a touch of sugar.
A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream
- The creamy, cool vanilla ice cream complements the richness of the dark chocolate, making each bite even more satisfying. Opt for high-quality ice cream for the best flavor.
Fresh Berries
- Adding fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries not only enhances the visual appeal but also balances the sweetness of the pie with their tartness.
Chocolate Sauce Drizzle
- A drizzle of warm chocolate sauce can intensify the chocolate flavor in this decadent pie. Simply melt some dark chocolate with a bit of cream for a smooth sauce.
Dusting of Powdered Sugar
- A light dusting of powdered sugar on top of the pie adds a touch of elegance and sweetness without overwhelming the rich flavors.
How to Perfect Dark Chocolate Chess Pie
To ensure your dark chocolate chess pie turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
Chill Your Dough: Make sure to chill your pie crust dough before rolling it out. This helps maintain its shape during baking and results in a flakier crust.
Use Quality Chocolate: Opt for high-quality bittersweet chocolate for the filling. The better the chocolate, the richer and more delicious your pie will be.
Room Temperature Eggs: Bring your eggs to room temperature before mixing them into the filling. This helps create a smoother texture and better combines with other ingredients.
Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on your pie while it bakes. The center should be set but still slightly jiggly when you take it out to ensure a creamy texture.
Let It Cool Completely: Allowing your pie to cool completely before slicing helps it set properly, ensuring clean slices that hold their shape.
Best Side Dishes for Dark Chocolate Chess Pie
Pairing side dishes with dark chocolate chess pie can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Consider these delightful options for a well-rounded dessert table.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness, balancing out the richness of the pie.
Coffee or Espresso: A cup of strong coffee or espresso complements the chocolate flavors beautifully, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses like brie or aged cheddar provides savory notes that contrast nicely with the sweet pie.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some homemade caramel sauce over each slice for an added layer of flavor and decadence.
Chocolate Mousse: Serve alongside a light chocolate mousse for double the chocolate delight without being overly heavy.
Nutty Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti offers a perfect textural contrast, making it ideal for dipping into coffee or enjoying alongside the pie.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Dark Chocolate Chess Pie, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Avoiding these mistakes ensures your pie turns out delicious and perfectly textured.
Skipping the chilling time: Failing to chill the pie crust can lead to shrinkage during baking. Always refrigerate your crust for at least 30 minutes before filling.
Using warm ingredients: Mixing warm butter or chocolate into your filling can cause curdling. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth consistency.
Overbaking the pie: Cooking too long can lead to a dry texture. Bake until just set in the center; it should still have a slight jiggle when you take it out.
Neglecting proper measuring: Accurate measurements are crucial for the perfect balance of flavors. Use a kitchen scale for consistent results, especially with flour and sugar.
Not preheating the oven: Baking in a cold oven can affect the rise and set of your pie. Preheat your oven thoroughly to achieve that ideal flaky crust.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers if stacking slices to prevent sticking.
Freezing Dark Chocolate Chess Pie
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating Dark Chocolate Chess Pie
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-60 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Dark Chocolate Chess Pie that might help you while preparing this delightful dessert.
What is Dark Chocolate Chess Pie?
Dark Chocolate Chess Pie is an American dessert known for its rich, custard-like filling made with dark chocolate, eggs, and sugar. It’s typically baked in a buttery pie crust.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare Dark Chocolate Chess Pie a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator after cooling completely.
How do I know when my chess pie is done?
The pie is done when it’s set but still slightly jiggly in the center. It will firm up as it cools.
What can I serve with Dark Chocolate Chess Pie?
Dark Chocolate Chess Pie pairs wonderfully with whipped cream, ice cream, or fresh berries for added flavor and texture.
Can I customize this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add flavors like orange zest or peppermint extract to enhance the chocolate taste or mix in nuts for added crunch.
Final Thoughts
This Dark Chocolate Chess Pie is not only an indulgent treat but also incredibly versatile. You can adjust flavors and toppings according to your tastes. Perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike—give it a try!
Dark Chocolate Chess Pie
Discover the ultimate indulgence with this Dark Chocolate Chess Pie, a rich and creamy dessert that will satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any festive gathering, this pie features a luscious filling made from high-quality dark chocolate, ensuring every slice is a delightful experience. The buttery, flaky crust complements the silky texture of the custard-like filling, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Serve it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of decadence. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a cozy night in, this easy-to-follow recipe will impress your family and friends.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 200 g all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 140 g unsalted butter (cold)
- 24 g vodka (optional)
- 1 cup ice water
- 113 g unsalted butter
- 56 g bittersweet chocolate
- 21 g Dutch process cocoa powder
- 1 tsp espresso powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 113 g whole milk
- 200 g granulated sugar
- 106 g dark brown sugar
- 25 g cornmeal
- 4 eggs (room temp)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- For the crust: Mix flour and salt in a bowl, cut in cold butter until crumbly. Add ice water to form dough and chill for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- For the filling: Melt butter and bittersweet chocolate over low heat, then whisk in cocoa powder and other ingredients until smooth.
- Roll out chilled dough, place in pie dish, fill with chocolate mixture.
- Bake for about 90 minutes until set but slightly jiggly in the center.
- Allow to cool completely before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
