Cozy Up with Chocolate Cream Pie with Autumn Spice
Introduction
As the gentle breezes of autumn start to whisper and the leaves form a vibrant tapestry on the ground, there’s nothing quite like indulging in a dessert that captures the essence of the season. This Chocolate Cream Pie with Autumn Spice is a beautiful twist on a classic—combining the rich, velvety taste of chocolate with the warm embrace of cinnamon and nutmeg. It’s a pie that promises comfort and joy with every bite! Want to keep this recipe close at hand? Subscribe to our newsletter, and we’ll deliver it right to your inbox.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This delightful pie is bursting with flavor, effortlessly bringing together the richness of chocolate and the heartwarming spices of fall. It’s easy to prepare, making it the ideal choice for both novice and seasoned bakers. Plus, it’s perfect for family gatherings or simply treating yourself to a moment of indulgence. Whether you’re a chocolate lover or someone who appreciates the magic of autumn spices, this pie is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
– 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
– ⅓ cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups whole milk
– ½ cup heavy cream
– 4 large egg yolks
– ¾ cup granulated sugar
– ⅓ cup cornstarch
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– 3 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
– 2 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
– Chocolate shavings, for garnish
Necessary Tools
– 9-inch pie pan
– Medium bowl
– Medium saucepan
– Whisk
– Plastic wrap
– Mixing bowls
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
Feel free to experiment with the spices—try adding a pinch of ginger for additional warmth. For a different crust, consider using gingersnap cookies instead of graham crackers. You can also opt for dark chocolate if you prefer a more intense chocolate flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine graham cracker crumbs, ⅓ cup sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie pan. Bake for 10 minutes and let it cool.
2. Heat milk and ½ cup of heavy cream in a saucepan until just simmering. In another bowl, whisk egg yolks, ¾ cup sugar, cornstarch, and salt until smooth. Slowly add the hot milk mixture, whisking constantly.
3. Pour the combined mixture back into the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring until it thickens and bubbles.
4. Remove from heat and add chopped chocolates, 2 tablespoons butter, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg, stirring until smooth. Fill the cooled crust with the chocolate mixture, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight.
5. Before serving, whisk 1 cup heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar to soft peaks. Spread over the chocolate filling and garnish with chocolate shavings. Then slice and enjoy your pie chilled!
Serving Suggestions
Pair your pie with a warm cup of spiced tea or coffee for an extra dash of comfort. It also makes a wonderful addition to any autumn dessert spread, holding its own alongside apple crisps or pumpkin pies.
Pro Tips for Success
– Ensure the plastic wrap touches the filling to prevent a skin from forming.
– Chill the pie sufficiently to achieve the perfect set.
– Whip the cream just until soft peaks for a light, airy topping.
Storing and Reheating
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you prefer a slightly warmer slice, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving again.
FAQ Section
Q: Can I make this pie ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This pie is perfect for making a day in advance.
Q: Can I use a store-bought crust?
A: Yes, if you’re short on time, a store-bought graham cracker crust will work fine.
Conclusion
This Chocolate Cream Pie with Autumn Spice is a simple yet elegant dessert that perfectly captures the essence of fall. Its uncomplicated preparation and comforting flavors make it a wonderful treat to share with loved ones—or enjoy all to yourself! We’d love to see your version, so be sure to share your photos or tag us on Pinterest and Instagram.
Nutritional Information
Approximate per serving: 410 calories, 24g fat, 45g carbohydrates, 5g protein.
