Dark Chocolate Chess Pie

If you’re looking for a dessert that will impress everyone at your next gathering, look no further! This Dark Chocolate Chess Pie is an absolute showstopper. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, a family birthday, or just a cozy weeknight treat, this pie is perfect for any occasion. The rich dark chocolate filling combined with the flaky homemade all-butter crust is simply irresistible. Trust me, even those who usually shy away from chocolate desserts will be coming back for seconds!

One of the best parts about this recipe is how easy it is to whip up. You don’t need to be a baking expert to create something that looks and tastes like it came from a bakery. Plus, it can easily be made ahead of time, leaving you more time to enjoy with friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and ingredients, this pie comes together quickly.
• Decadent flavor: The combination of dark chocolate and espresso powder gives it a rich taste that chocolate lovers will adore.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual dinner, this pie fits right in.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare it in advance so you can relax and enjoy your company on the big day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Dark Chocolate Chess Pie is a breeze! You’ll find everything you need in your local grocery store. These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully.

For the Crust

• 200 g all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 140 g unsalted butter (cold)
• 24 g white grape juice (optional)
• 1 cup ice water

For the Filling

• 113 g unsalted butter
• 56 g bittersweet chocolate
• 21 g dutch process cocoa powder
• 1 tsp espresso powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 113 g whole milk
• 200 g granulated sugar
• 106 g dark brown sugar
• 25 g cornmeal
• 4 eggs (room temp)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Variations

One of the best things about this Dark Chocolate Chess Pie is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste.

• Add some nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can add an extra crunch to the filling.
• Change up the sweetness: Swap out some of the granulated sugar for coconut sugar for a different flavor profile.
• Spice it up: A pinch of cinnamon or chili powder can give your pie an unexpected kick.
• Go fruity: Add in some fresh raspberries or cherries on top before serving for an added burst of flavor.

How to Make Dark Chocolate Chess Pie

Step 1: Make the Pie Crust

Begin by preparing your pie crust. In a large bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour and kosher salt. Cut in the cold unsalted butter using a pastry cutter until it resembles coarse crumbs. If you choose to use white grape juice, mix that in along with ice water until just combined. Roll out and fit into your pie dish. Chill while you prepare the filling—it helps create that perfect flaky texture!

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate

In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt together the unsalted butter and bittersweet chocolate until smooth. Stir frequently to prevent burning; this step enhances the flavor of your pie by ensuring everything combines beautifully.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

Once melted, remove from heat and whisk in cocoa powder, espresso powder, salt, whole milk, granulated sugar, dark brown sugar, cornmeal, eggs, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. The mixture should be velvety smooth and smell heavenly—this is where all that rich flavor comes from!

Step 4: Bake Your Pie

Pour the filling into your prepared crust and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 90 minutes or until set. The center might still have a little jiggle when you take it out—that’s completely fine! It will firm up as it cools.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Let your Dark Chocolate Chess Pie cool completely before slicing into it. Serving it with whipped cream or fresh berries adds an extra touch! Enjoy every bite as loved ones savor this delightful treat together.

And there you have it—a delicious Dark Chocolate Chess Pie that’s sure to become a favorite in your home!

Pro Tips for Making Dark Chocolate Chess Pie

Making a perfect dark chocolate chess pie is easier than you think! Here are some pro tips to ensure your dessert turns out decadent and delicious.

• Use cold ingredients: Starting with cold butter and water helps create a flaky pie crust. This is crucial for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

• Chill the pie crust: After preparing your crust, let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This prevents shrinking during baking and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

• Don’t overmix the filling: Gently mix your filling ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, resulting in a less creamy, more cake-like texture.

• Check doneness carefully: The pie should have a slight jiggle in the center when done. It will continue to set as it cools, leading to a perfectly custardy consistency.

• Let it cool completely: Patience is key! Allowing your pie to cool completely before slicing helps maintain its structure and enhances the flavor.

How to Serve Dark Chocolate Chess Pie

Serving dark chocolate chess pie is all about enhancing its rich flavors and creating an inviting presentation. Here are some delightful ways to present this dessert at your next gathering!

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light, airy contrast to the rich chocolate filling.
• Fresh berries: Raspberries or strawberries not only add color but also introduce a tartness that balances the sweetness of the pie.
• Chocolate shavings: A sprinkle of chocolate shavings on top gives an extra touch of elegance and amplifies the chocolate experience.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla vegan ice cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream complements the rich chocolate flavor while adding a refreshing element to each bite.
• Caramel sauce: Drizzling homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over each slice introduces a sweet and buttery contrast that’s simply irresistible.
• Coffee or espresso: Serving this pie alongside freshly brewed coffee or espresso enhances its flavors and provides a lovely after-dinner pick-me-up.
• Fruit salad: A light fruit salad can serve as a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of this indulgent pie, making each taste even more enjoyable.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your dark chocolate chess pie will be an absolute showstopper at any gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Dark Chocolate Chess Pie is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a rich dessert without the last-minute rush. It holds up beautifully in storage, making it a fantastic choice for gatherings or cozy evenings at home.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pie to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container.
• Alternatively, you can freeze the whole pie, wrapping it tightly.
• Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For individual slices, microwave for about 20-30 seconds until warmed through.
• For the whole pie, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to prevent over-browning.

FAQs

Here are some common questions readers might have about this delicious recipe.

Can I use dark chocolate instead of bittersweet chocolate in Dark Chocolate Chess Pie?

Yes! You can substitute dark chocolate for bittersweet chocolate based on your preference. Just make sure it’s high-quality for best results.

What makes Dark Chocolate Chess Pie different from regular chess pie?

Dark Chocolate Chess Pie features a rich chocolate flavor thanks to the addition of cocoa powder and melted chocolate, giving it a decadent twist compared to traditional chess pie.

Can I make Dark Chocolate Chess Pie without eggs?

While eggs are essential for the custardy texture of this recipe, you could experiment with egg substitutes like silken tofu or flaxseed meal mixed with water. However, results may vary.

How should I serve Dark Chocolate Chess Pie?

This pie is delightful on its own but pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.

Final Thoughts

This Dark Chocolate Chess Pie is not just a dessert; it’s an experience that combines rich flavors and comforting textures. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself after a long day, this pie will surely impress. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do—happy baking!