Chocolate Chip Pie Recipe

Name: Chocolate Chip Pie Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pre-made 9-inch pie crust (or homemade if preferred); 1 cup brown sugar (packed); 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 3 large eggs; 1 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp salt; 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (you can also mix in milk chocolate chips); 1 cup chopped nuts (optional; pecans or walnuts work well)

By funsmagcom@gmail.com

January 27, 2025

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Chocolate Chip Pie Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about a rich, gooey chocolate chip pie. With a golden, buttery crust and a filling packed with chocolate chips, this pie strikes the perfect balance between a classic chocolate chip cookie and a decadent dessert pie. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, a holiday, or just because you’re craving something sweet, this pie will satisfy every chocolate lover’s dreams. It’s easy to prepare, can be made in advance, and serves as a show-stopping dessert.

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This chocolate chip pie recipe uses simple ingredients but offers incredible results. The best part? It’s versatile enough to allow you to experiment with various add-ins, toppings, and flavors.

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Pie Crust (if using homemade)

Making your own pie crust is highly recommended for the best flavor and texture, but if you’re short on time, store-bought pie crusts work just as well.

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Step 1: In a large bowl, combine 1 1/4 cups of flour and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
Step 2: Add in the cold, cubed butter. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, with pea-sized pieces of butter throughout.
Step 3: Gradually add in cold water, starting with 2 tablespoons, mixing with a fork until the dough begins to come together. Add the remaining tablespoon of water as needed.
Step 4: Gather the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This helps the dough firm up and prevents shrinkage when baking.
Step 5: After chilling, roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface into a circle that fits a 9-inch pie dish. Transfer the dough into the dish, pressing it gently along the sides. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to your liking.
Step 6: Pre-bake the crust if desired (to avoid a soggy bottom). To do this, line the crust with parchment paper, fill with pie weights or dried beans, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until slightly golden. Remove the weights and parchment and let it cool while you prepare the filling.

2. Prepare the Filling

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar and granulated sugar, whisking until smooth.
Step 3: Add in the melted butter and whisk again until the mixture is combined and smooth.
Step 4: Crack the eggs into the bowl and whisk until fully incorporated. Add the vanilla extract and salt and mix again.
Step 5: Slowly fold in the flour, mixing just until combined. Do not over-mix.
Step 6: Toss the chocolate chips (and nuts, if using) with 1 tablespoon of flour. This helps prevent the chocolate chips from sinking to the bottom during baking.
Step 7: Fold the coated chocolate chips (and nuts) into the pie filling. The filling should be thick and slightly chunky.

3. Assemble the Pie

Step 1: Pour the chocolate chip filling into the prepared pie crust. Use a spatula to evenly spread the filling out.
Step 2: Place the pie in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. Start checking the pie at the 40-minute mark. The edges should be set and golden, while the center will still be slightly wobbly. The pie will continue to set as it cools.
Step 3: Let the pie cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This allows the filling to firm up and makes it easier to cut neat slices.

4. Serve and Enjoy

Once the pie has cooled, slice it into wedges and serve. This pie is delicious on its own, but you can also top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

Variations and Add-ins

1. Nuts:

You can add chopped nuts like pecans, walnuts, or even almonds for an extra crunch and flavor. Make sure to chop them coarsely so they mix evenly into the filling.

2. Different Chocolate Chips:

While semisweet chocolate chips are traditional, you can mix it up by using:

Milk chocolate chips for a sweeter pie.
Dark chocolate chips for a more intense chocolate flavor.
A mix of chocolate chips and white chocolate chips for a fun twist.

3. Spice It Up:

If you love a bit of spice, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick. These warm spices complement the chocolate beautifully.

4. Caramel or Peanut Butter:

For an indulgent twist, you can swirl in some caramel sauce or peanut butter into the filling. Simply drop spoonfuls of either ingredient into the pie and use a knife to swirl it through the batter before baking.

5. Coffee or Espresso:

For a deeper flavor, try adding a teaspoon of instant coffee or espresso powder to the batter. The coffee enhances the chocolate flavor without being overwhelming.

Serving Suggestions

1. Toppings:

A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream is a classic choice to complement the rich, gooey chocolate chip filling.
Whipped cream is another fantastic addition. Try a dollop of homemade whipped cream for a lighter topping.
A drizzle of hot fudge sauce or caramel sauce makes the pie even more decadent.
Fresh berries like raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries can cut through the sweetness and add a refreshing contrast.

2. Coffee or Tea Pairing:

Serve with a cup of coffee or tea to balance out the sweetness. A rich dark roast coffee pairs particularly well with the chocolate flavor, while a chai tea can add a warm, spiced note.

Tips for Success

Don’t Overmix the Filling:
Over-mixing the filling can result in a denser pie. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for the best texture.
Chill the Dough:
If making your own pie crust, be sure to chill the dough before rolling it out. This helps the crust stay flaky and prevents shrinkage during baking.
Check for Doneness:
The pie is done when the edges are golden and the center is slightly wobbly but not liquid. If the edges are browning too quickly, cover the pie with foil to prevent burning.
Let the Pie Cool Completely:
Let the pie cool for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the filling set and makes it easier to slice.
Make Ahead:
The pie can be made a day ahead and stored at room temperature. If you want to reheat it, warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or reheat the whole pie at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes.

Detailed Variations for Chocolate Chip Pie

While the classic chocolate chip pie is already indulgent and delicious, you can easily tweak it to match different preferences or seasonal flavors. Here are some ideas to customize the pie to your liking:

1. Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Pie

For an irresistible balance of sweet and salty, add caramel into your chocolate chip pie:

Caramel Sauce: Swirl in store-bought or homemade caramel sauce into the pie filling before baking. This will create a rich, gooey texture and enhance the chocolate chips.
Sea Salt: After the pie comes out of the oven, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top to contrast with the sweetness and elevate the flavor profile. It adds a sophisticated touch and a pop of flavor with each bite.

2. Mint Chocolate Chip Pie

For mint chocolate lovers, a fresh mint twist can take this pie to a whole new level:

Mint Extract: Replace the vanilla extract with mint extract for a refreshing, cool flavor. Start with 1 teaspoon of mint extract (it’s potent, so be careful not to overdo it).
Chocolate Mint Chips: Use mint-flavored chocolate chips or chocolate chunks for a rich, chocolaty, and minty filling. You can also add a handful of crushed Andes mint chocolates to the filling for added texture and flavor.

3. Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Pie

If you adore the combination of chocolate and peanut butter, this variation is perfect for you:

Peanut Butter Swirl: Before baking, drop spoonfuls of creamy peanut butter (or chunky if you prefer) throughout the pie filling. Swirl it in with a knife for a marbled effect.
Peanut Butter Chips: Add peanut butter chips along with the chocolate chips to enhance the peanut butter flavor in every bite.

4. Coconut Chocolate Chip Pie

Coconut lovers can make this pie even more irresistible with the addition of coconut flakes:

Shredded Coconut: Stir in about 1/2 cup of unsweetened shredded coconut into the pie filling for a chewy, tropical texture.
Coconut Oil: For a slightly different flavor and texture, substitute the melted butter with coconut oil. This adds a subtle coconut flavor throughout the pie and pairs perfectly with the chocolate.

5. S’mores Chocolate Chip Pie

The classic camping treat, s’mores, gets a decadent pie makeover:

Graham Cracker Crust: Instead of a traditional pie crust, use a graham cracker crust to mimic the base of a s’more. You can make this easily by combining crushed graham crackers, sugar, and melted butter.
Mini Marshmallows: Fold in mini marshmallows into the pie filling, or sprinkle them on top during the last 5-10 minutes of baking so they get toasty and golden without burning.

6. Double Chocolate Chip Pie

For those who want an extra-chocolatey experience, make a double chocolate chip pie:

Cocoa Powder: Add 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder to the filling along with the flour. This deepens the chocolate flavor and creates a more intense chocolate filling.
Chocolate Chunks: Instead of regular chocolate chips, use coarsely chopped chocolate chunks or a mix of dark chocolate and milk chocolate for varied textures and richer chocolate flavor.

7. Fruit and Chocolate Chip Pie

Add some fruit to your pie for a burst of freshness:

Chopped Berries: Fold in fresh or frozen berries, like raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries. The fruit will break up the sweetness and add natural tartness, creating a beautiful contrast with the rich chocolate chips.
Dried Cherries or Cranberries: Dried fruit like dried cherries or cranberries will add a chewy texture and a slightly tart flavor that complements the sweetness of the chocolate.

How to Make the Perfect Chocolate Chip Pie

1. Choose the Right Chocolate Chips

The type of chocolate you choose can significantly impact the flavor of your pie. Here’s a breakdown of the most common options:

Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: The most traditional option. It balances sweetness with the depth of cocoa flavor.
Milk Chocolate Chips: For a sweeter pie, milk chocolate adds extra creaminess and a mellow chocolate flavor.
Dark Chocolate Chips: If you’re a fan of bittersweet chocolate, opt for dark chocolate chips with 60% cocoa or higher for a more intense, rich flavor.
White Chocolate Chips: For a contrast in flavor and color, consider adding white chocolate chips, which add sweetness and creaminess.
Chocolate Chunks: Use coarsely chopped chocolate bars for an extra-melty, gooey texture. This creates pockets of molten chocolate that make each slice more indulgent.

2. Don’t Overmix the Batter

When making the pie filling, it’s important to mix the ingredients just until combined. Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense texture, which is not what you want for this recipe. Mixing the ingredients until they just come together ensures a light, fluffy, and perfectly chewy filling.

3. Bake Until Golden and Set

Baking times for pies can vary depending on your oven, so it’s important to check the pie periodically. The edges should be golden and slightly puffed, while the center will still be a little wobbly. A slight jiggle in the middle indicates that the pie is fully baked and will firm up as it cools. Don’t worry if the center is soft when it first comes out of the oven—it will continue to set as it cools down.

4. Let It Cool Before Slicing

As tempting as it may be to dive in immediately, letting the pie cool for at least 30 minutes is essential. This cooling period helps the filling set and makes the pie easier to slice. If you skip this step, the filling may be too runny and difficult to serve in neat slices.

5. Serve It with Toppings

To elevate the pie, consider adding a fun topping:

Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream is a classic, light accompaniment to the rich pie.
Ice Cream: Vanilla, chocolate, or even mint chocolate chip ice cream would be an excellent complement.
Hot Fudge: For even more chocolate indulgence, drizzle some warm hot fudge sauce over the pie just before serving.

Tips for Perfecting Your Chocolate Chip Pie

Chill the Pie Crust: If you’re using homemade pie crust, be sure to chill it before rolling it out. This helps the dough stay firm and prevents it from shrinking during baking.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow the butter and eggs to come to room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smoother, more consistent batter.
Check the Oven Temperature: Oven temperatures can vary, so use an oven thermometer to ensure your pie is baking at the correct temperature. If your crust is browning too quickly, cover the edges with foil to prevent burning while the filling finishes baking.
Adjust Sweetness to Your Taste: Depending on the type of chocolate you use, you may want to adjust the sugar in the recipe. Darker chocolates are less sweet, so you may want to add a little more sugar if you’re using a high-percentage dark chocolate.

Serving Chocolate Chip Pie for Special Occasions

1. Holidays:

Chocolate chip pie is perfect for holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or even Easter. Serve it as a delicious alternative to traditional pies, or as a second dessert alongside classics like pumpkin or apple pie.

2. Birthdays:

For a birthday celebration, chocolate chip pie is a great choice. You can even decorate the pie with birthday candles and serve it warm with ice cream for a birthday treat that’s sure to impress.

3. Potlucks and Family Gatherings:

Chocolate chip pie is always a hit at potlucks, barbecues, or family gatherings. It’s easy to transport and can be made ahead of time, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the event.

4. Bake Sales:

This pie is also perfect for bake sales. It can be pre-sliced into individual portions, making it easy for people to grab a piece to enjoy. The pie’s appearance—golden crust, gooey filling, and melty chocolate—will attract customers every time.

Conclusion: The Perfect Chocolate Chip Pie

This Chocolate Chip Pie is a sweet, indulgent dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a holiday, a family gathering, or a simple weeknight treat, this pie is sure to impress. With its rich, gooey chocolate filling, flaky crust, and endless possibilities for customization, it’s a dessert everyone will love. Easy to make yet full of flavor, this pie will quickly become a go-to recipe in your collection.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to bake a dessert that will be the highlight of any meal.

The Chocolate Chip Pie recipe is a versatile and decadent dessert that can be tailored to your taste. Whether you’re looking for a traditional chocolate chip pie or a fun variation like salted caramel or peanut butter, this recipe offers endless possibilities for customization. It’s easy to make, and its rich, gooey center and golden, buttery crust make it a dessert everyone will rave about.

Whether for a special occasion or just a casual weeknight treat, this pie will become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. With a few simple ingredients, a bit of patience, and some creativity, you can create a dessert that is truly exceptional. Enjoy!

Yield: 8-10