Description
Gooey Chocolate Pie
A rich and gooey chocolate pie with a hint of coffee for extra depth!
Ingredients:
1 pie crust
1 cup dark chocolate chips
½ cup butter, melted
1 cup sugar
1 tbsp instant coffee powder
3 eggs
1 tsp vanilla
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place crust in a pie pan.
Melt chocolate chips and butter together, then stir in coffee powder.
Mix sugar, eggs, and vanilla; fold in the chocolate mixture.
Pour into the crust and bake for 30-35 minutes.
#ChocoCoffeePie
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place your chosen pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan, crimping the edges as desired. You can use a store-bought or homemade crust.
2. Melt Chocolate Base: In a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water (double boiler), combine the dark chocolate chips and butter. Stir gently until completely smooth and melted. Remove from heat and immediately whisk in the instant coffee powder until fully dissolved.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate, large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is well-blended and slightly frothy.
4. Fold Everything Together: Gradually pour the warm chocolate and coffee mixture into the egg mixture, folding gently with a spatula. It’s crucial to fold, not whisk vigorously, to maintain the filling’s structure and avoid incorporating too much air.
5. Bake: Pour the rich, glossy filling into the prepared pie crust. Bake on the center rack for 30-35 minutes. The pie is done when the edges are set, but the very center (about a 3-inch diameter) still has a slight, gentle wobble when you jiggle the pan.
6. Cool Completely: Let the pie cool at room temperature for at least 2-3 hours. This allows the filling to set properly into its signature gooey, fudgy texture. For best results, refrigerate for an additional hour before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
This decadent pie is fantastic on its own, but a few accompaniments elevate it. Serve each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. For a contrasting texture and flavor, sprinkle with a pinch of flaky sea salt, a few fresh raspberries, or some chopped toasted nuts like pecans or hazelnuts.
How-to Summary
In short: Preheat oven to 350°F. Melt chocolate and butter, then mix in coffee powder. Separately, whisk sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Fold the chocolate mix into the egg mix. Pour into a pie crust and bake for 30-35 minutes until the center is just set but still wobbly. Cool completely before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I omit the coffee? Yes, the coffee enhances the chocolate flavor without making it taste like coffee. You can omit it or substitute 1 teaspoon of espresso powder for a stronger note.
What’s the best chocolate to use? Use high-quality dark chocolate chips or a chopped bar with 60-70% cocoa for the richest flavor. Semi-sweet chips also work well.
Why is my pie too runny? This is usually due to under-baking. The center should be wobbly, not liquid. Ensure your oven is properly preheated and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely. Bake and cool the pie, then cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before serving.
Is a pre-baked crust necessary? No, the crust bakes perfectly along with the filling in the time given, resulting in a crisp, flaky base.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-baking: This is the most common error. Baking until the center is completely firm will result in a dry, cake-like texture, not a gooey one.
- Adding hot chocolate to eggs too quickly: Pour the chocolate in a slow stream while folding to prevent accidentally cooking the eggs.
- Using cold ingredients: Ensure eggs are at room temperature to help them incorporate smoothly into the sugar.
- Not cooling completely: Slicing into the pie while warm will cause it to fall apart. Patience is key for perfect slices.
Conclusion
This Gooey Chocolate Pie is a stunning yet straightforward dessert that delivers maximum indulgence. The hint of coffee deepens the chocolate flavor, creating a sophisticated treat perfect for any occasion. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve a pie with a crackly top, a luxuriously fudgy center, and a crisp crust. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that proves the best desserts are often the simplest.