Name: Frozen Chocolate-Chestnut Pie Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 4 h
Yield: 8
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 24 chocolate wafer cookies; ¼ cup hazelnuts; 1 tbsp sugar; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 5 oz bittersweet chocolate; 1 cup heavy cream; 18 oz sweetened chestnut puree with vanilla; 1 pinch salt; ½ tsp unflavored gelatin; 1 tbsp cold water

Indulge in the decadent flavors of this frozen chocolate-chestnut pie. With layers of rich chocolate and creamy chestnut puree, this dessert is a perfect treat for any special occasion. The hazelnut crust adds a delightful crunch, while the smooth mousse and ganache provide an irresistible finish.

Photos of Frozen Chocolate-Chestnut Pie Recipe

Some ingredients in this recipe might not be commonly found in your pantry. The chestnut puree, particularly the sweetened version with vanilla, might require a trip to a specialty store or an online order. Likewise, gelatin in its unflavored form is essential for achieving the right texture for the mousse, so make sure to pick that up as well.

Ingredients For Frozen Chocolate-Chestnut Pie

Chocolate wafer cookies: These provide the base for the crust, delivering a rich cocoa flavor.

Hazelnuts: Adds a nutty, crunchy texture to the crust.

Sugar: Sweetens the crust mixture.

Unsalted butter: Binds the crust ingredients together.

Bittersweet chocolate: Used for both the mousse and the ganache, offering a deep, rich chocolate flavor.

Heavy cream: Creates the smooth, creamy texture for the mousse and ganache.

Sweetened chestnut puree with vanilla: Adds a unique, sweet and nutty flavor to the mousse.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the mousse.

Unflavored gelatin: Ensures the mousse sets properly.

Cold water: Used to dissolve the gelatin.

One reader, Desiree Salmon says:

This frozen chocolate-chestnut pie is a delightful treat! The rich chocolate and creamy chestnut puree create a perfect harmony of flavors. The hazelnut crust adds a wonderful crunch. It's a bit of effort, but the result is absolutely worth it. A must-try for dessert lovers!

Desiree Salmon

Mastering the Techniques for Frozen Chocolate-Chestnut Pie

How to use a food processor: Explanation on how to combine ingredients in a food processor until fine crumbs form. How to bake a crust: Explanation on how to bake the crust until set and then tamp it down with a flat-bottomed glass. How to melt chocolate: Explanation on how to melt chocolate using hot cream. How to make ganache: Explanation on how to combine melted chocolate with cream and chestnut puree to make ganache. How to make mousse: Explanation on how to refrigerate the mixture and then beat it until soft peaks form. How to use gelatin: Explanation on how to soften gelatin in water and then melt it in the microwave. How to assemble the pie: Explanation on how to layer the chestnut puree, mousse, and ganache in the crust and freeze until set.

How To Make Frozen Chocolate-Chestnut Pie

Whip up this lusciously flavorful chestnut pie, a dessert that offers a rich chocolatey and nutty mousse, and topped with a smooth ganache.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Cool and Chill Time: 3 hours 35 minutes

Total: 4 hours

Serves:

Ingredients

24chocolate wafer cookies
¼cuphazelnuts,blanched, toasted
1tbspsugar
4tbspunsalted butter
5ozbittersweet chocolate,(1 scant cup)
1cupheavy cream,plus an additional 2 tbsp
18ozsweetened chestnut puree with vanilla,(1 can)
1pinchsalt
½tspunflavored gelatin
1tbspcold water

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
In a food processor, combine the cookie crumbs with the hazelnuts and sugar, and pulse until fine crumbs form. Add the butter and process until incorporated.
Press the crumbs evenly over the bottom and up the side of a 9-inch glass pie plate.
Bake the crust for 8 minutes, or until set.
Using a flat-bottomed glass, lightly tamp down the crust and let cool.
Put ⅔ cup of the chocolate in a large bowl. Put the remaining chocolate in a small bowl.
In a saucepan, heat the cream until bubbles appear around the edge of the pan.
Spoon 2 tablespoons of the cream into the small bowl of chocolate to melt it. Stir in 2 tablespoons of the chestnut puree. Set the ganache aside.
Pour the remaining 1 cup of hot cream into the large bowl to melt the chocolate. Whisk in ⅔ cup of the chestnut puree and salt.
Refrigerate the chocolate-chestnut mousse mixture for about 2 hours until very cold.
Using an electric mixer, beat the mousse until soft peaks form.
In a glass bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the water and let soften. Microwave for about 8 seconds on high to melt the gelatin.
Beat the gelatin into the mousse. Stir the remaining plain chestnut puree and spread it in the cookie crust.
Spread the mousse on top and freeze until firm.
Rewarm the ganache in the microwave for 10 seconds, then spread it over the frozen mousse.
Freeze until just set. Refrigerate the pie for 10 minutes before cutting into wedges.
Serve and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Make-Ahead: The pie can be wrapped in plastic and frozen for up to 1 week.

Nutrition

Calories: 533.26kcal
Fat: 27.24g
Saturated Fat: 14.60g
Trans Fat: 0.23g
Monounsaturated Fat: 9.25g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.88g
Carbohydrates: 35.58g
Fiber: 2.07g
Sugar: 27.04g
Protein: 3.39g
Cholesterol: 56.38mg
Sodium: 142.97mg
Calcium: 44.28mg
Potassium: 249.64mg
Iron: 1.56mg
Vitamin A: 171.42µg
Vitamin C: 0.44mg

Expert Advice for Perfecting This Pie Recipe

To ensure a smooth and lump-free gelatin mixture, sprinkle the gelatin evenly over the cold water and let it sit undisturbed for a few minutes to fully hydrate. Then, gently heat it in the microwave for about 8 seconds until completely melted. This will help it incorporate seamlessly into the mousse without any grainy texture.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Pie Recipe

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and organize chocolate, hazelnuts, and chestnut puree ahead of time to streamline the process.

Use a food processor: Quickly create fine cookie crumbs and hazelnut mixture using a food processor.

Chill the mousse efficiently: Place the chocolate-chestnut mousse in the freezer for 30 minutes instead of refrigerating for 2 hours to speed up the cooling process.

Microwave shortcuts: Melt the gelatin and rewarm the ganache using the microwave for quicker results.

Substitute Ingredients For Frozen Chocolate-Chestnut Pie Recipe

chocolate wafer cookies - Substitute with graham crackers: Graham crackers provide a similar texture and can be combined with cocoa powder to mimic the chocolate flavor.
hazelnuts - Substitute with almonds: Almonds have a similar nutty flavor and texture, making them a good alternative.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add sweetness and a slight floral note, though it may slightly alter the texture.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content and can help bind the crust, though it will add a slight coconut flavor.
bittersweet chocolate - Substitute with semi-sweet chocolate: Semi-sweet chocolate has a similar cocoa content and sweetness level, making it a good alternative.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream has a similar richness and can be whipped, though it will add a coconut flavor.
sweetened chestnut puree with vanilla - Substitute with sweetened pumpkin puree: Sweetened pumpkin puree can provide a similar texture and sweetness, though the flavor will be different.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide the same level of saltiness and enhance the flavors similarly.
unflavored gelatin - Substitute with agar-agar: Agar-agar is a plant-based gelling agent that can provide a similar texture and is suitable for vegetarians.
cold water - Substitute with cold milk: Cold milk can be used to dissolve the gelatin or agar-agar and will add a slight creaminess.

Presenting the Perfect Chocolate-Chestnut Pie

Serve smaller portion sizes: Slice the frozen chocolate-chestnut pie into elegant, thin wedges to ensure a refined presentation. Each slice should be no more than 1-inch wide at the crust.
Use decoration: Garnish each plate with a delicate drizzle of chocolate ganache and a few whole hazelnuts for a sophisticated touch. Add a light dusting of cocoa powder around the edges of the plate.
Add texture contrast: Place a small quenelle of lightly sweetened whipped cream beside the pie slice. This adds a creamy contrast to the rich, dense chocolate-chestnut mousse.
Incorporate color: Add a few fresh raspberries or red currants on the plate to introduce a pop of color and a hint of tartness that complements the sweetness of the pie.
Highlight the crust: Ensure the cookie crust is visible by slightly elevating the pie slice on a small pedestal made of tempered chocolate shards. This adds height and visual interest to the presentation.
Use elegant plating: Serve the pie on a pristine white plate to make the rich colors of the chocolate and chestnut puree stand out. The simplicity of the plate will highlight the dessert's intricate details.
Add a touch of gold: For a luxurious finish, lightly brush the edges of the chocolate ganache with edible gold dust. This subtle shimmer will elevate the dessert's visual appeal and make it worthy of a Michelin-starred presentation.

Essential Tools for Making This Pie Recipe

Oven: Used to preheat and bake the crust until set.
Food processor: Combines the cookie crumbs, hazelnuts, and sugar into fine crumbs.
9-inch glass pie plate: Holds the crust and the pie filling.
Flat-bottomed glass: Tamps down the crust after baking.
Large bowl: Melts the chocolate and holds the mousse mixture.
Small bowl: Melts a portion of the chocolate for the ganache.
Saucepan: Heats the cream until bubbles appear.
Whisk: Mixes the melted chocolate, chestnut puree, and salt.
Electric mixer: Beats the mousse until soft peaks form.
Glass bowl: Softens and melts the gelatin.
Microwave: Melts the gelatin and rewarms the ganache.
Spatula: Spreads the chestnut puree and mousse in the crust.
Knife: Cuts the pie into wedges before serving.

Storing and Freezing Frozen Chocolate-Chestnut Pie

Let the pie cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store in the refrigerator, cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the fridge for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freeze the pie:
- Wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap, making sure to remove as much air as possible.
- Cover the wrapped pie with aluminum foil for an extra layer of protection against freezer burn.
- Label the pie with the date and contents, then place it in the freezer.
- The frozen chocolate-chestnut pie can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
To serve the frozen pie:
- Remove the pie from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Once thawed, you can serve the pie cold or let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before slicing and serving.
- If you prefer a softer texture, you can also reheat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

Interesting Trivia About Chocolate-Chestnut Pie

A unique aspect of this frozen chocolate-chestnut pie recipe is its use of sweetened chestnut puree with vanilla, which adds a rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture to the mousse and ganache.

Budget-Friendly: Making Frozen Chocolate-Chestnut Pie at Home

This frozen chocolate-chestnut pie recipe is moderately cost-effective. The main ingredients like chocolate wafer cookies, hazelnuts, and heavy cream are relatively affordable, but the sweetened chestnut puree and bittersweet chocolate can be pricier. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $20-$25. Overall Verdict: 7/10.

Is This Dessert Healthy or Unhealthy?

This frozen chocolate-chestnut pie recipe, while indulgent and delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:

High in saturated fat from the heavy cream and butter
Significant amount of sugar from the sweetened chestnut puree and added sugar
Refined carbohydrates from the chocolate wafer cookies
Low in nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and fiber

However, the recipe does include some beneficial ingredients like hazelnuts and dark chocolate, which provide healthy fats, antioxidants, and minerals.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace some of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or a plant-based alternative like almond milk
Reduce the amount of sugar by using unsweetened chestnut puree and adding natural sweeteners like dates or maple syrup
Use whole-grain or nut-based cookies for the crust to increase fiber and nutrient content
Incorporate more nuts and seeds for added protein, healthy fats, and texture
Serve smaller portions and pair with fresh fruit to balance out the richness and add more nutrients

By making these adjustments, you can still enjoy the delightful flavors and textures of this frozen chocolate-chestnut pie while reducing its overall calorie, sugar, and fat content. Remember, indulging in treats like this is okay in moderation, but it's essential to maintain a balanced diet overall.

Editor's Opinion on This Decadent Dessert

This frozen chocolate-chestnut pie recipe is a delightful fusion of rich flavors and textures. The combination of bittersweet chocolate and sweetened chestnut puree creates a luxurious mousse, while the hazelnut-infused chocolate wafer crust adds a satisfying crunch. The use of gelatin ensures a stable yet creamy consistency. The final touch of ganache elevates the dessert to a gourmet level. However, the multiple steps and waiting periods require patience and precision, making it more suitable for experienced bakers. Overall, it's a sophisticated and indulgent treat worth the effort for special occasions.

Enhance Your Frozen Chocolate-Chestnut Pie Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Elevate your dining experience with a side of crispy brussels sprouts drizzled in a tangy balsamic glaze. The earthy flavors of the sprouts perfectly complement the rich, sweet notes of the chocolate-chestnut pie.

Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus: Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus: Add a touch of elegance with tender asparagus spears wrapped in savory prosciutto. The salty, smoky taste of the prosciutto pairs beautifully with the creamy, sweet layers of the dessert.

Citrus Arugula Salad: Citrus Arugula Salad: Brighten up your meal with a refreshing arugula salad tossed with juicy citrus segments and a light vinaigrette. The zesty flavors and peppery greens provide a delightful contrast to the decadent pie.

Butternut Squash Soup: Butternut Squash Soup: Warm up with a velvety butternut squash soup that boasts a hint of nutmeg and cinnamon. The creamy texture and subtle sweetness of the soup harmonize wonderfully with the rich chocolate-chestnut pie.

Caramelized Pears with Blue Cheese: Caramelized Pears with Blue Cheese: Delight your taste buds with pears caramelized to perfection and topped with crumbles of sharp blue cheese. The sweet and savory combination is a sophisticated match for the luscious dessert.

Similar Dessert Recipes to Try

Chocolate Hazelnut Tart: Indulge in a rich and creamy dessert that combines the nutty flavor of hazelnuts with the deep, luxurious taste of chocolate. This tart features a buttery crust filled with a smooth chocolate-hazelnut ganache, topped with a sprinkle of sea salt for a perfect balance of sweet and savory.

Chestnut Mousse Cake: Experience the delicate and airy texture of a mousse cake infused with the subtle sweetness of chestnuts. This cake layers light chestnut mousse with a moist sponge cake, all enveloped in a glossy chocolate glaze. Perfect for any special occasion or a sophisticated dessert.

Chocolate Chestnut Truffles: These bite-sized desserts are a perfect blend of rich chocolate and sweet chestnut puree. Rolled in cocoa powder or finely chopped nuts, these truffles are a decadent treat that melts in your mouth, making them an ideal gift or a luxurious after-dinner indulgence.

Hazelnut Chocolate Cheesecake: Elevate your dessert game with a creamy cheesecake that marries the flavors of hazelnut and chocolate. This cheesecake features a crunchy hazelnut crust, a velvety chocolate filling, and a topping of roasted hazelnuts for added texture and flavor. A true showstopper for any gathering.

Chestnut Chocolate Soufflé: Delight in the light and airy texture of a classic soufflé with a twist. This chestnut chocolate soufflé combines the earthy sweetness of chestnuts with the rich taste of chocolate, creating a dessert that rises beautifully and impresses with every spoonful. Serve it warm with a dusting of powdered sugar.

Appetizers and Main Dishes to Serve With This Dessert

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Transform your next gathering with these Stuffed Mushrooms. Imagine plump mushrooms filled with a savory blend of breadcrumbs, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. The mushrooms are baked until golden and crispy on top, while remaining juicy and tender inside. A touch of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness, making this dish not only delicious but also visually appealing. Serve these delightful bites warm, and watch them disappear in no time.

Caprese Skewers: Elevate your appetizer game with Caprese Skewers. These vibrant skewers feature juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, and fragrant basil leaves. Drizzle with a rich balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness and tang. The combination of flavors and textures is a true celebration of fresh, simple ingredients. Perfect for any occasion, these skewers are easy to assemble and sure to impress your guests.

Main Courses:

Grilled Herb-Marinated Chicken: Grilled Herb-Marinated Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the smoky flavors of the grill with the aromatic essence of fresh herbs. Start by marinating the chicken in a blend of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and a mix of thyme, rosemary, and parsley. Allow the flavors to meld together for a few hours. Once marinated, grill the chicken until it reaches a perfect golden-brown hue, ensuring it's juicy and tender inside. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal that’s both healthy and satisfying.**

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed Bell Peppers offer a colorful and nutritious main course that’s sure to impress. Hollow out vibrant bell peppers and fill them with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and spices. Top with a generous layer of cheese and bake until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden. This dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds. Pair with a side of garlic bread or a simple caesar salad to round out the meal.**

Why trust this Frozen Chocolate-Chestnut Pie Recipe:

This recipe combines the rich flavors of bittersweet chocolate and sweetened chestnut puree to create a decadent dessert. The chocolate wafer cookie crust adds a delightful crunch, while the chocolate-chestnut mousse offers a creamy, luxurious texture. The use of hazelnuts enhances the nutty undertones, making each bite a harmonious blend of flavors. With clear, step-by-step instructions, even novice bakers can achieve a professional-quality pie. Trust this recipe for its balance of textures and flavors, ensuring a memorable dessert experience.

Want to share your experience making this Frozen Chocolate-Chestnut Pie or have any tips to perfect the recipe? Join the discussion in the Baking and Desserts forum!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?

Absolutely! If you can't find chocolate wafer cookies, you can use graham crackers or any other type of cookie you prefer. Just keep in mind that it might slightly change the flavor and texture of the crust.

What if I can't find sweetened chestnut puree with vanilla?

No worries! You can use plain chestnut puree and add a bit of vanilla extract and sugar to taste. It should work just fine and still give you that lovely chestnut flavor.

How do I know when the mousse is ready to be beaten?

The mousse mixture should be very cold, which usually takes about 2 hours in the fridge. When you touch the bowl, it should feel cold to the touch. This helps it whip up to soft peaks more easily.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can! This pie freezes well, so you can make it a day or two in advance. Just make sure to let it thaw in the fridge for about 10 minutes before serving to make cutting easier.

Is there a substitute for gelatin if I'm vegetarian?

You can use agar-agar as a vegetarian substitute for gelatin. Just follow the package instructions for the equivalent amount needed to set the mousse.