Easy Hot Fudge Pie is the perfect dessert for chocolate lovers who want a rich, decadent treat without the fuss. This pie has a velvety, gooey center that pairs beautifully with a crisp graham cracker crust, making each bite a delightful combination of textures. The simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make it a fantastic dessert to whip up for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. Serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent experience.
With its deep chocolate flavor and melt-in-your-mouth consistency, this hot fudge pie is bound to become a favorite in your household. Whether you choose to make it with the optional graham cracker crust or go crustless for a more fudgy treat, this pie will not disappoint.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
• Rich and Fudgy Texture: The pie has a gooey, decadent center that melts in your mouth.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal preparation time mean you can enjoy this dessert with little effort.
• Versatile: Serve it warm, at room temperature, or even chilled for different experiences.
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
• 1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
For the Optional Graham Cracker Crust:
• 1 package (about 14 ounces) graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 2 tablespoons sugar
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure the pie bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Optional Graham Cracker Crust
• If using a crust, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl until the mixture resembles wet sand.
• Press the mixture firmly into an 8-inch pie pan to form an even layer.
• Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
• In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together 1 stick of softened butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Beat for about 3 minutes until light and fluffy.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
• Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
• Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to add depth to the flavor.
Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
• Sift the cocoa powder, salt, and flour into the wet mixture. This step helps maintain a smooth texture by preventing lumps.
• Gently stir by hand until just combined. Avoid overmixing, which could result in a dense pie.
Step 6: Assemble the Pie
• Pour the chocolate filling into the prepared graham cracker crust or, if not using a crust, into a greased 8-inch pie pan.
Step 7: Bake
• Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The center should be set but still slightly gooey, and a toothpick inserted should come out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).
Step 8: Cool and Serve
• Let the pie cool completely at room temperature, or refrigerate for quicker cooling.
• Slice into 8 pieces and serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent touch.
Tips:
• Check for Doneness: The center should appear slightly underbaked when you remove it from the oven, as it will continue to set as it cools.
• Enhance the Flavor: Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before serving for a sophisticated sweet-and-salty contrast.
• Serve Warm: For a gooier center, warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving.
Storage Options:
• Room Temperature: Store the pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Easy Hot Fudge Pie is a simple yet irresistible dessert that’s perfect for any chocolate lover. With its rich, fudgy interior and optional crunchy crust, it’s sure to satisfy your sweet cravings every time. Enjoy!
