If you are looking for a luscious, deeply satisfying dessert that’s both classic and effortlessly elegant, this Chocolate Pie Recipe | Hersheyland Recipe is a total game-changer. Imagine biting into a velvety chocolate filling made from rich HERSHEY’S SPECIAL DARK Mildly Sweet Chocolate Chips set in a crisp pie shell – it’s truly the kind of dessert that feels like a warm hug from the inside. This recipe balances sweetness and chocolate intensity perfectly, and the texture is so smooth it almost melts on your tongue. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a comforting treat, this pie will quickly become your go-to favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Chocolate Pie Recipe | Hersheyland Recipe is carefully chosen to create that irresistibly creamy texture and deep chocolate flavor. These are simple pantry staples with a special touch thanks to the high-quality chocolate chips, which make all the difference.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances and balances the sweetness for a richer chocolate flavor.
- 1 Tbsp vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic note that rounds out the chocolate perfectly.
- 2 cups HERSHEY’S SPECIAL DARK Mildly Sweet Chocolate Chips (12-oz. bag), divided: The star ingredient delivering smooth, deeply chocolatey goodness.
- 4 egg yolks: Give the filling its creamy, custard-like consistency.
- 1/3 cup cornstarch: Acts as a natural thickener for the filling without overpowering its silkiness.
- 2/3 cup sugar: Sweetens the pie just enough to complement the dark chocolate.
- 3 cups milk: Creates a luscious base for the filling—whole milk is ideal for richness.
- 2 Tbsps butter or margarine, softened: Adds smoothness and shine to the pie’s texture.
- 1 pie shell (9 inch): A crisp, flaky foundation that holds all the creamy filling beautifully.
- Sweetened whipped cream or whipped topping (optional): Perfect for a light, airy contrast topping your creation.
How to Make Chocolate Pie Recipe | Hersheyland Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Shell and Custard Mixture
Start by baking your 9-inch pie shell according to package instructions and allow it to cool completely. This simple base ensures the perfect balance between flaky crust and creamy filling. Meanwhile, in a 2-quart saucepan, stir together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt—this dry mixture will gently thicken and sweeten the filling. Combine the egg yolks with the milk in a container that’s easy to pour, and gradually blend this liquid into the dry ingredients. The slow combining helps prevent lumps, resulting in a silky smooth custard once cooked.
Step 2: Cook the Filling to Perfection
Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly as you bring the mixture to a boil. This step is crucial for achieving that lush, pudding-like consistency without burning or curdling. Once boiling, continue to stir for one full minute to ensure the filling thickens properly. Then, remove the pan from the heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract—this adds glossy richness and aromatic depth. Next, fold in 1 3/4 cups of HERSHEY’S SPECIAL DARK Mildly Sweet Chocolate Chips, stirring continuously until the chocolate melts completely and the filling becomes uniformly creamy and dark.
Step 3: Chill and Set the Pie
Pour the luscious chocolate filling into your cooled pie shell with care, smoothing the surface evenly. To prevent a skin from forming on top of your pie, press plastic wrap gently onto the surface of the filling. Refrigerate the pie for several hours or until it is thoroughly chilled and set firm, allowing all those wonderful flavors to meld and intensify. This patient cooling step is where the magic solidifies into the perfect sliceable pie.
How to Serve Chocolate Pie Recipe | Hersheyland Recipe
Garnishes
When it’s time to serve, a cloud of sweetened whipped cream or whipped topping makes an ideal partner to this rich pie, adding lightness and a decorative flair. You can also sprinkle a few leftover HERSHEY’S SPECIAL DARK chocolate chips on top for texture and extra chocolate bursts. A dusting of cocoa powder or a few fresh berries can elevate the look and taste further, transforming your dessert into a visual and flavorful masterpiece.
Side Dishes
While this pie is heavenly on its own, consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of crème fraîche to introduce a cool, creamy contrast. Fresh fruit on the side, such as raspberries or sliced strawberries, adds a pleasant tartness that complements the deep chocolate flavor beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual mini pies or chocolate cups made with the same filling to impress guests at your next dinner party. Layer the filling with crushed cookies or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added texture and decadence. You can even make elegant chocolate shards or curls on top as a gorgeous finishing touch that will wow everyone at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Chocolate Pie Recipe | Hersheyland Recipe keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days when covered properly. Storing it airtight prevents the filling from drying out or absorbing other fridge odors, ensuring each slice stays just as luscious as the first.
Freezing
If you want to prepare in advance, you can freeze the pie, though texture may be slightly affected. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to protect it from freezer burn, and it will keep for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving for the best results.
Reheating
Since this pie is best served chilled, reheating is generally not recommended. However, if you prefer a slightly softer filling, allow slices to sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before enjoying to let flavors and texture mellow nicely.
FAQs
Can I use milk chocolate chips instead of HERSHEY’S SPECIAL DARK?
Absolutely! While the HERSHEY’S SPECIAL DARK offers a rich, mildly sweet flavor that balances the pie perfectly, milk chocolate chips will give you a sweeter, creamier pie if that’s your preference.
Do I need to bake the pie shell before adding the filling?
Yes, pre-baking the shell ensures it stays crisp and firm under the moist chocolate filling, preventing sogginess and creating a great texture contrast.
Is the pie suitable for freezing after it has been chilled?
It is, but keep in mind that freezing can affect the texture of the creamy filling slightly. Wrapping it tightly is key to preserving flavor as much as possible.
Can I substitute cornstarch with flour as a thickener?
You can, though cornstarch creates a smoother, more translucent filling. Flour may produce a slightly grainier texture and cloudier appearance, but the pie will still taste delicious.
How long does it typically take to chill the pie fully?
Plan for at least 3 to 4 hours in the refrigerator, though overnight chilling is ideal for optimal flavor and firmness before serving.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about this Chocolate Pie Recipe | Hersheyland Recipe that makes it a standout dessert for any occasion. Its rich chocolate flavor combined with a silky texture is the perfect way to end a meal or brighten a cozy afternoon. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try—you won’t regret the smiles it brings to your table.
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Chocolate Pie Recipe | Hersheyland Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 (9-inch) pie, serves 8 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy and decadent Chocolate Pie features a rich HERSHEY’S SPECIAL DARK Mildly Sweet Chocolate filling set in a crisp, baked pie shell. The luscious custard is made by combining egg yolks, milk, sugar, and cornstarch, then enriched with butter, vanilla, and melted dark chocolate chips. Chilled until firm and optionally topped with whipped cream and extra chocolate chips, this pie is a perfectly indulgent dessert for chocolate lovers.
Ingredients
Pie Shell
- 1 pie shell (9 inch), baked and cooled
Chocolate Filling
- 2/3 cup sugar
- 1/3 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4 egg yolks
- 3 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons butter or margarine, softened
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups HERSHEY’S SPECIAL DARK Mildly Sweet Chocolate Chips (12-oz. bag), divided (1 3/4 cups for filling, remainder for garnish)
- Sweetened whipped cream or whipped topping, as desired
Optional Topping
Instructions
- Prepare Pie Shell: Bake the 9-inch pie shell according to package or recipe instructions until golden and fully cooked. Allow it to cool completely before filling.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a 2-quart saucepan, combine 2/3 cup sugar, 1/3 cup cornstarch, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Stir well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate container with a pouring spout, whisk together 4 egg yolks and 3 cups milk until smooth and well blended.
- Blend Mixtures: Gradually pour the milk and egg yolk mixture into the saucepan with the sugar and cornstarch, stirring constantly to form a smooth base for the custard.
- Cook Filling: Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly to prevent lumps and scorching. Continue until it comes to a boil, then boil and stir for 1 full minute to thicken.
- Add Flavorings and Chocolate: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons softened butter and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract. Then add 1 3/4 cups of HERSHEY’S SPECIAL DARK Mildly Sweet Chocolate Chips, stirring until the chocolate is fully melted and the filling is smooth and glossy.
- Fill Pie Shell: Pour the warm chocolate filling into the prepared cooled pie shell. To avoid a skin forming on the surface, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the filling.
- Chill Pie: Refrigerate the pie for several hours, or until fully chilled and firmly set.
- Serve: Before serving, garnish the pie with sweetened whipped cream or whipped topping, and sprinkle with the remaining chocolate chips if desired.
Notes
- Ensure the pie shell is completely cooled before adding filling to prevent melting or sogginess.
- Constant stirring during cooking is important to avoid lumps and to prevent the custard from burning on the bottom of the pan.
- Pressing plastic wrap directly on the pie filling prevents a skin from forming as it cools.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter and milk with plant-based alternatives.
- Use high-quality dark chocolate chips for the best chocolate flavor.
