What To Know
- Get ready to indulge in the velvety smooth chocolate filling and the flaky, buttery crust – a true culinary masterpiece.
- Gradually add the chilled butter to the flour mixture, using a pastry blender or your fingertips, until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Drizzle in the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough just comes together.
Are you craving a rich, chocolatey dessert that’s guaranteed to impress? Look no further than the iconic Hershey chocolate pie. This timeless recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of making this delectable treat. Get ready to indulge in the velvety smooth chocolate filling and the flaky, buttery crust – a true culinary masterpiece!
Gather Your Ingredients
Before you embark on your pie-making journey, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients. Here’s a comprehensive list:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
- 1/4 cup ice water
For the Filling:
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips
Prepare the Crust
The foundation of any great pie is a perfectly crafted crust. Follow these steps for a flaky and flavorful base:
1. Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Cut in the butter: Gradually add the chilled butter to the flour mixture, using a pastry blender or your fingertips, until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Avoid overworking the dough.
3. Add the water: Drizzle in the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough just comes together. Don’t add too much water!
4. Form the dough: Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, resulting in a tender crust.
5. Roll out the dough: Once chilled, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to a 12-inch circle. Gently transfer it to a 9-inch pie plate.
6. Crimp the edges: Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to create a decorative finish.
7. Blind bake the crust: Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork and line it with parchment paper or foil. Fill it with pie weights or dry beans. Bake for 15 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Remove the weights and parchment paper and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until lightly golden.
Create the Decadent Filling
Now comes the exciting part – crafting the rich chocolate filling that will make your taste buds sing:
1. Combine the ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
2. Cook the filling: Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and reaches a simmer. Remove from heat and stir in the milk.
3. Add the chocolate chips: Stir in the chocolate chips until melted and fully incorporated.
4. Pour the filling into the crust: Pour the warm chocolate filling into the pre-baked pie crust.
5. Bake the pie: Bake for 15-20 minutes at 350°F (175°C) or until the filling is set.
6. Cool and serve: Allow the pie to cool completely before serving. For an extra touch of indulgence, top it with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or fresh berries.
Tips for a Perfect Hershey Chocolate Pie
- Use high-quality cocoa powder: Opt for Dutch-processed cocoa powder for a richer, deeper chocolate flavor.
- Don’t overbake the crust: Overbaking can lead to a tough crust. Keep a close eye on the pie while it bakes.
- Chill the pie completely: Allowing the pie to cool completely ensures a smooth, set filling.
- Experiment with toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Try adding a drizzle of caramel sauce, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of sea salt.
A Sweet Finale: Time to Enjoy!
Congratulations, you’ve just created a masterpiece of chocolatey goodness! The Hershey chocolate pie is a delightful dessert that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. With its velvety smooth filling and flaky crust, it’s a classic recipe that will always be a crowd-pleaser. Share it with your loved ones, savor every bite, and let the rich chocolate flavor transport you to a world of pure indulgence.
Common Questions and Answers
1. Can I substitute the sweetened condensed milk?
While sweetened condensed milk is the traditional ingredient, you can use evaporated milk with a little sugar added for a similar effect.
2. How long can I store the pie?
The Hershey chocolate pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
3. Can I make the pie ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the pie and refrigerate it overnight for a convenient dessert.
4. What are some other variations of the Hershey chocolate pie?
You can add a layer of chocolate chips to the bottom of the crust for extra chocolatey goodness. You can also add a tablespoon of coffee to the filling for a richer flavor.
5. Can I freeze the pie?
It’s best to avoid freezing the Hershey chocolate pie, as the crust can become soggy.
