Indulge in the luxurious taste of this Chocolate Chess Pie, a sumptuous dessert that blends the fudgy richness of a brownie with the crispy, sugary crust of a classic chess pie. Featuring high-quality dark chocolate, espresso, and a touch of bourbon, this pie is a perfect treat for any occasion that calls for a rich and sophisticated dessert.
Ingredients:
- 1 (9-inch) pie shell, homemade or store-bought, unbaked
- 1/2 cup (4 ounces) unsalted butter
- 3 ounces high-quality dark chocolate (70-72% cacao), broken into pieces
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups (10 1/2 ounces) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons fine yellow cornmeal
- 2 tablespoons bourbon (optional)
- 1 teaspoon finely ground instant espresso powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- Flaky sea salt, for garnish
Directions:
- Prepare the Pie Shell:
- Roll out your homemade dough and fit into a 9-inch pie plate, crimping the edges for a decorative touch. Freeze for at least one hour. If using a store-bought crust, follow the package instructions for thawing.
- Make the Filling:
- In a double boiler or microwave, melt the butter and chocolate together until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, cocoa powder, cornmeal, bourbon (if using), espresso powder, vanilla extract, kosher salt, and heavy cream. Gradually stir in the melted chocolate mixture until well combined.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the chocolate filling into the prepared pie shell. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the surface is slightly crackly.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack. The filling will puff up during baking but will settle as it cools, creating a crackly top. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt before serving.
- Serving Suggestions:
- Serve slices of this rich pie with a dollop of unsweetened whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the intense chocolate flavor.
Preparation Tips:
- The addition of espresso powder and bourbon enhances the chocolate flavor, making it more robust and complex.
- Ensure all ingredients, particularly the eggs and cream, are at room temperature to ensure a smooth filling.
- The pie can be served at room temperature or chilled. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator.
Total Time:
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 65 minutes
Conclusion:
Chocolate Chess Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience. The combination of rich chocolate with the subtle heat of pink peppercorns makes for a dessert that’s as exciting as it is satisfying. Perfect for special occasions or as a luxurious treat to end a meal, this pie promises delight in every bite.