Hot Fudge Pie is a rich, decadent dessert that offers a gooey, fudgy texture with a deep chocolate flavor. Perfect for any occasion, this dessert is simple to make yet indulgent enough to impress guests. Whether served warm with ice cream or chilled for a refreshing treat, this pie is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients
For the Pie:
- 1 stick butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
Instructions
1. Preparing the Batter
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and sugar until fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Incorporate the Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the mixture. Mix well by hand to ensure they are fully incorporated.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in the cocoa powder, salt, and flour. Mixing by hand will help maintain the gooey texture, so avoid using a mixer at this stage.
2. Baking the Pie
- Prepare the Pie Pan: Grease an 8-inch pie pan with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Pour the Batter: Transfer the prepared batter into the greased pie pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Place the pie in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the center is set but still gooey. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions:
- Warm or Chilled: Enjoy Hot Fudge Pie warm from the oven or chilled for a cool, refreshing treat.
- Toppings: Top each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or drizzle with extra hot fudge sauce for indulgence.
- Garnish: Add a sprinkle of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings for an elegant presentation.
Storage Tips:
- Room Temperature: Leftover pie can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days. Be sure it’s covered to maintain its gooey texture.
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temperature or reheat gently before serving.
- Freezing: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. To serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Reheating Instructions:
- Microwave: Warm individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds or reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat to maintain the pie’s gooey texture.
Variations
- Peanut Butter Hot Fudge Pie: Swirl ½ cup of creamy peanut butter into the batter for a peanut butter-chocolate combo.
- Mint Chocolate Hot Fudge Pie: Add ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract and drizzle with melted chocolate and crushed peppermint candies.
- Nutella Hot Fudge Pie: Swap out cocoa powder for Nutella for a hazelnut-chocolate flavor. Add extra Nutella on top before baking.
- S’mores Hot Fudge Pie: Mix in 1 cup of mini marshmallows and ½ cup of crushed graham crackers. Top with chocolate chunks before baking.
- Salted Caramel Hot Fudge Pie: Drizzle caramel sauce over the pie before baking and sprinkle with sea salt.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter?
Yes, you can use unsalted butter. Just add a pinch of salt to the batter to maintain the flavor balance.
How do I know when the Hot Fudge Pie is done?
The pie is ready when the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the pie ahead of time and store it. Reheat slightly before serving for the best texture.
Can I use a different size pie pan?
Yes, adjust the baking time based on the size of the pan. A larger pan may require less time, while a smaller one will need more.
How should I store leftover pie?
Store leftover pie covered at room temperature for 2 days, or refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Conclusion
Hot Fudge Pie is a quick and indulgent dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its fudgy interior and rich chocolate flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite. Whether enjoyed warm with ice cream or chilled for a refreshing treat, this pie is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Explore the delicious variations for even more flavor combinations, and enjoy this decadent dessert with friends and family!