Name: No-Bake Chocolate Pie Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 8 h 20 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: FOR CRUST:; 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs; ¼ cup white sugar; ½ cup butter; For Chocolate Filling:; 3 cups whole milk; 1 cup white sugar; 2 eggs; 3 tbsp cornstarch; ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; ⅛ tsp salt; 2 tsp vanilla extract

This seductively silky no-bake chocolate pie is an indulgent treat to appease your sweet tooth. With its luscious chocolate filling encased in a crisp graham cracker crust, it offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. Best of all, it requires no baking, so it's a fantastic option for those warm summer days when you don't want to turn on the oven.

Photos of No-Bake Chocolate Pie Recipe

The ingredients for this no-bake chocolate pie are generally staples in most kitchens. However, pay special attention to the graham cracker crumbs. They are essential for the crust and provide a scrumptious contrast to the creamy chocolate filling. If you can't find them in your local supermarket, you can make your own by crushing whole graham crackers.

No-Bake Chocolate Pie Ingredients

Graham cracker crumbs: These are crushed up graham crackers, which serve as the base for our crust. They provide a sweet and crunchy contrast to the soft chocolate filling.

White sugar: This is used in both the crust and filling to add sweetness.

Butter: Butter is used to bind the graham cracker crumbs together to form the crust.

Milk: Whole milk is used to provide a rich and creamy texture to the chocolate filling.

Eggs: These help to thicken the chocolate filling and provide a bit of lift.

Cornstarch: This is used as a thickening agent in the chocolate filling.

Cocoa powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder is used to provide a deep chocolate flavor.

Salt: A small amount is used to enhance the flavors of the other ingredients.

Vanilla extract: This adds a hint of warm, sweet flavoring that complements the chocolate.

One reader, Devon Ledbetter says:

This no-bake chocolate pie recipe is a game-changer! It's incredibly easy to make and tastes absolutely divine. The creamy chocolate filling is a dream, and the graham cracker crust adds the perfect crunch. It's a hit every time I make it, and my friends and family can't get enough!

Devon Ledbetter

Key Techniques for No-Bake Chocolate Pie Recipe

How to prepare crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs and sugar in a 9-inch glass pie dish. Add melted butter and mix together. Press mixture firmly across the pie dish and up the sides. Set aside.

How to prepare chocolate filling: Combine milk, sugar, eggs, cornstarch, cocoa powder, and salt in a bowl and mix until well combined using an electric mixer. Pour into a saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly. Boil for 1 minute. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

How to cool and set the pie: After pouring the filling into the crust, immediately cover with plastic wrap. Cool to room temperature on the counter, then refrigerate for 8 hours or overnight.

How To Make No-Bake Chocolate Pie

Satisfy your chocolate cravings with this no-bake chocolate pie, a sinfully rich dessert that’s overflowing with cocoa flavor.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Chill Time: 8 hours

Total: 8 hours 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Crust:

1½cupsgraham cracker crumbs
¼cupwhite sugar
½cupbuttermelted

For Chocolate Filling:

3cupswhole milk
1cupwhite sugar
2eggs
3tbspcornstarch
⅓cupunsweetened cocoa powder
⅛tspsalt
2tspvanilla extract

Instructions

Combine graham cracker crumbs and sugar in a 9-inch glass pie dish. Add melted butter and mix together.
Press mixture firmly across the pie dish and up the sides. Set aside.
Combine milk, sugar, eggs, cornstarch, cocoa powder, and salt in a bowl and mix until well combined using an electric mixer.
Pour into a saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly. Boil for 1 minute. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
Pour filling into crust and immediately cover with plastic wrap. Cool to room temperature on the counter. Refrigerate for 8 hours or overnight.

Nutrition

Calories: 366.20kcal
Fat: 18.57g
Saturated Fat: 10.16g
Trans Fat: 0.57g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.92g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.11g
Carbohydrates: 46.64g
Fiber: 1.58g
Sugar: 36.85g
Protein: 5.71g
Cholesterol: 79.64mg
Sodium: 164.72mg
Calcium: 129.62mg
Potassium: 207.41mg
Iron: 1.14mg
Vitamin A: 156.33µg

Crucial Technique Tip for No-Bake Chocolate Pie

When pressing the graham cracker crumbs into the pie dish, use the bottom of a measuring cup or glass to ensure an even and firm crust. This will help the crust hold together when you cut the pie. Also, when cooking the chocolate filling, make sure to stir constantly to prevent the mixture from burning or sticking to the bottom of the saucepan. It's important to bring the mixture to a boil for only 1 minute to avoid overcooking the eggs and curdling the mixture. Lastly, allowing the pie to cool at room temperature before refrigerating helps to prevent condensation from forming on the surface, which could make the pie soggy.

Time-Saving Tips for Making No-Bake Chocolate Pie

Prepare the crust: Use store-bought graham cracker crust to save time on making the crust from scratch.

Chill the pie: Place the pie in the freezer for a couple of hours to speed up the setting process.

Use instant pudding: Consider using instant chocolate pudding mix as a quick alternative for the filling.

Garnish creatively: Use ready-made whipped cream and chocolate shavings for a quick and impressive garnish.

Prep ahead: Prepare the pie a day in advance to allow ample time for chilling and setting.

Substitute Ingredients For No-Bake Chocolate Pie Recipe

graham cracker crumbs - Substitute with chocolate wafer crumbs: Chocolate wafer crumbs can provide a rich, chocolatey flavor to the crust, complementing the chocolate filling.
white sugar - Substitute with brown sugar: Brown sugar can add a deeper, caramel-like flavor to the crust and filling.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can provide a subtle coconut flavor and a slightly different texture to the crust.
whole milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk can add a creamy, tropical twist to the chocolate filling.
white sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a natural sweetness and a hint of floral flavor to the chocolate filling.
eggs - Substitute with silken tofu: Silken tofu can provide a creamy texture and act as a binding agent in the chocolate filling.
cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder can thicken the filling and provide a glossy finish.
unsweetened cocoa powder - Substitute with dark chocolate chips: Dark chocolate chips can melt into a rich, velvety chocolate filling.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract can add a nutty, aromatic flavor to the chocolate filling.

How to Beautifully Present No-Bake Chocolate Pie

Elevate the crust: Create a decorative pattern on the crust using a fork or the back of a spoon to add a touch of elegance to the pie.
Garnish with chocolate shavings: Sprinkle delicate chocolate shavings on top of the pie to add a luxurious and visually appealing element.
Add a dollop of whipped cream: Place a small, perfectly swirled dollop of whipped cream on each slice to balance the richness of the chocolate filling.
Dust with cocoa powder: Lightly dust the top of the pie with cocoa powder using a fine sieve to create a professional and polished finish.
Serve on chilled plates: Present the pie on chilled plates to maintain the perfect temperature and enhance the overall dining experience.

Essential Tools for Making No-Bake Chocolate Pie

Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients and mixing the crust and filling for the pie.
9-inch glass pie dish: This dish is used to form and shape the crust for the pie.
Saucepan: A saucepan is used to cook and thicken the chocolate filling for the pie.
Electric mixer: An electric mixer is used to thoroughly combine the ingredients for the chocolate filling until smooth.
Plastic wrap: Plastic wrap is used to cover the pie while it cools and sets in the refrigerator.

Storing and Freezing No-Bake Chocolate Pie

Once the chocolate pie has cooled to room temperature, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
If you want to freeze the pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Label the pie with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
To thaw the frozen chocolate pie, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Do not thaw the pie at room temperature, as this can cause the filling to become watery and the crust to become soggy.
If you have any leftover pie, slice it into individual portions and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 1 month.
To serve the chilled or thawed chocolate pie, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the filling to soften slightly and make it easier to slice.

Interesting Fact About No-Bake Chocolate Pie

The no-bake chocolate pie recipe is a delightful dessert that is perfect for warm weather. It's a great option for those who want to enjoy a delicious chocolate pie without turning on the oven. This recipe is a fantastic choice for gatherings or when you want to satisfy your sweet tooth without spending too much time in the kitchen. Plus, it's a versatile dessert that can be customized with various toppings such as whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or fresh berries. So, next time you're craving a chocolatey treat, consider making this no-bake chocolate pie!

Is Making No-Bake Chocolate Pie Cost-Effective?

This no-bake chocolate pie recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens, and the recipe yields a delicious dessert that can serve a family of four. The use of basic pantry staples like graham crackers, sugar, and cocoa powder keeps the cost low. The total cost for making this pie is approximately $10, making it an affordable and delightful treat for any family. The overall verdict for this recipe is 9/10, considering its simplicity, affordability, and delectable taste.

Is This No-Bake Dessert Healthy or Unhealthy?

This no-bake chocolate pie recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:

High sugar content: The recipe calls for a significant amount of white sugar in both the crust and the filling, which can contribute to obesity, diabetes, and other health issues when consumed in excess.
High fat content: The use of whole milk and butter adds a considerable amount of saturated fat to the recipe, which can increase the risk of heart disease and other health problems.
Refined carbohydrates: Graham crackers, the main component of the crust, are made from refined wheat flour, which has a high glycemic index and can cause blood sugar spikes.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Reduce the amount of sugar in both the crust and the filling, or replace some of the white sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
Use low-fat or skim milk instead of whole milk to decrease the saturated fat content.
Replace some of the butter in the crust with a healthier alternative, such as coconut oil or olive oil.
Incorporate more nutrient-dense ingredients into the filling, such as avocado or silken tofu, to increase the fiber and protein content while reducing the need for cornstarch.
Add fresh fruit, like strawberries or raspberries, on top of the pie to provide additional vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Use whole wheat graham crackers or a nut-based crust to increase the fiber content and reduce the glycemic impact of the dessert.

Editor's Opinion on This No-Bake Chocolate Pie Recipe

This no-bake chocolate pie recipe is a delightful and indulgent treat. The combination of the buttery graham cracker crust and the rich, creamy chocolate filling creates a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. The simplicity of the recipe makes it accessible for all skill levels, and the result is a show-stopping dessert that is sure to impress. The pie can be prepared in advance, making it a convenient option for entertaining. Overall, this recipe is a winner and is guaranteed to satisfy any chocolate lover's cravings.

Enhance Your No-Bake Chocolate Pie Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes with a hint of parmesan cheese

Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears drizzled with balsamic glaze and sprinkled with toasted almonds

Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits tossed in a honey-lime dressing

Similar No-Bake Dessert Recipes to Try

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This creamy tomato basil soup is the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in. The combination of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil creates a rich and flavorful soup that is sure to warm you up.

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled lemon herb chicken is a delicious and healthy option for a summer barbecue. The zesty lemon and aromatic herbs create a flavorful marinade that will make your chicken tender and juicy.

Mixed Berry Crisp: This mixed berry crisp is a delightful dessert that showcases the natural sweetness of fresh berries. The crispy oat topping pairs perfectly with the juicy berries for a satisfying and indulgent treat.

Appetizers and Main Dishes to Complement No-Bake Chocolate Pie

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with savory stuffed mushrooms filled with a flavorful mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. These bite-sized appetizers are perfect for any gathering and will leave your guests wanting more.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Indulge in a creamy and cheesy spinach and artichoke dip served with crispy tortilla chips. This classic appetizer is a crowd-pleaser and is sure to be a hit at any party or event.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Indulge in a creamy, decadent pasta dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and velvety Alfredo sauce. The flavors meld together perfectly, creating a comforting and satisfying meal that is sure to please any palate.

Beef Stir Fry: Whip up a quick and flavorful stir fry that features tender strips of beef, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious and nutritious on the table in no time.

Why trust this No-Bake Chocolate Pie Recipe:

This no-bake chocolate pie recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, featuring a decadent chocolate filling nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust. The creamy filling is made with wholesome whole milk and rich cocoa powder, ensuring a luscious and indulgent texture. With the addition of vanilla extract for a delightful aroma, this recipe promises a delightful balance of sweetness and depth of flavor. Trust in the simplicity and reliability of this recipe, as it has been crafted with precision and passion to deliver a delightful dessert experience.

Want to share your experience making this no-bake chocolate pie or discuss variations on the recipe? Join the conversation in the Baking and Desserts forum!

FAQ:

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

Yes, you can use different types of cookies for the crust, such as chocolate cookies or vanilla wafers. Feel free to experiment and find a flavor that you enjoy.

Can I use a different type of milk for the filling?

Yes, you can use different types of milk for the filling, such as almond milk or coconut milk. However, keep in mind that it may alter the flavor and texture slightly.

Can I add toppings to the pie?

Absolutely! You can add whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or fresh berries on top of the pie to enhance the flavor and presentation.

Can I make the pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the pie ahead of time. It's actually best to refrigerate it for 8 hours or overnight to allow the filling to set properly.

Can I freeze the pie for later?

Yes, you can freeze the pie for later. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.