Short Description
Hot Chocolate Ice Box Pie is a rich and creamy no-bake dessert inspired by the comforting flavors of hot chocolate. With a chocolate cookie crust, a silky chocolate filling, and a fluffy whipped topping, this pie is the perfect make-ahead treat for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No baking required
- Smooth, creamy, and chocolatey
- Perfect for holidays and special occasions
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
- Can be made ahead of time for convenience
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Chocolate cookie crumbs
- Unsalted butter, melted
- Semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- Heavy cream
- Granulated sugar
- Cocoa powder
- Cornstarch
- Egg yolks
- Vanilla extract
- Salt
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Chocolate shavings or marshmallows (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, mix chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a pie dish and refrigerate for 15 minutes to set.
- Make the Filling: In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. Slowly add in egg yolks and heavy cream, whisking continuously until smooth.
- Cook the Mixture: Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble. Remove from heat and stir in chopped chocolate and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Assemble the Pie: Pour the chocolate filling into the prepared crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until fully set.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or mini marshmallows before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8 slices
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Variations
- Spiced Hot Chocolate Pie: Add a pinch of cinnamon and cayenne pepper for a Mexican hot chocolate twist.
- Mocha Chocolate Pie: Stir in a teaspoon of instant espresso powder for a coffee-infused flavor.
- S’mores Pie: Add a layer of toasted marshmallows on top instead of whipped cream.
- Peppermint Hot Chocolate Pie: Mix in crushed peppermint candies for a festive flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Reheating: Not applicable, as this dessert is meant to be served chilled.
FAQs
Can I use a graham cracker crust instead of a chocolate cookie crust?
Yes! A graham cracker crust will work well and give the pie a slightly different flavor.
How do I prevent the filling from becoming lumpy?
Whisk continuously while cooking and make sure the heat is not too high.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Yes, but the pie will be sweeter. Adjust sugar if needed.
Is this pie gluten-free?
Use gluten-free chocolate cookies for the crust to make the pie gluten-free.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! This pie is best made a day in advance to allow it to set properly.
How do I get clean slices when serving?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wipe it clean between cuts.
Can I add marshmallow fluff instead of whipped cream?
Absolutely! Marshmallow fluff will add a gooey and sweet topping.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Keep leftovers covered in the fridge to maintain freshness.
Can I add alcohol to this pie?
Yes! A splash of Baileys or Kahlua can enhance the flavor.
How can I make this pie dairy-free?
Use coconut milk and dairy-free chocolate for a delicious alternative.
Conclusion
Hot Chocolate Ice Box Pie is an indulgent, no-bake dessert that’s perfect for chocolate lovers. With its rich and creamy filling, delicious crust, and fun toppings, this pie is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Make it ahead of time and enjoy a chilled, velvety slice of chocolate bliss!
PrintHot Chocolate Ice Box Pie
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Hot Chocolate Icebox Pie is a smooth and velvety chocolate cream pie with a buttery graham cracker crust, topped with fluffy whipped cream and marshmallows. It’s the perfect make-ahead dessert for cozy nights!
Ingredients
- For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or chocolate cookie crumbs)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
- For the Chocolate Filling:
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate (chopped)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- For Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Mini marshmallows (for garnish)
- Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder (for garnish)
Instructions
- Make the Crust:
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie dish.
- Refrigerate while preparing the filling.
- Make the Chocolate Filling:
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, heavy cream, sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt over medium heat.
- Cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in chopped chocolate and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the chocolate filling into the chilled crust and smooth the top.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) until fully set.
- Make the Whipped Topping:
- In a bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form.
- Spread or pipe whipped cream over the set chocolate filling.
- Garnish & Serve:
- Top with mini marshmallows, chocolate shavings, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder.
- Slice and enjoy this creamy, dreamy Hot Chocolate Icebox Pie!
Notes
- Swap graham crackers for chocolate cookies for an even richer crust!
- Use dark chocolate for a bolder flavor or milk chocolate for extra sweetness.
- Store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for a firmer texture.
- Details
Nutrition
- Calories: ~320
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
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