Hot Fudge Pie is a rich, gooey dessert that combines the best parts of a brownie and a molten lava cake. With a crispy, crackly top and a fudgy, almost underbaked center, this pie is a chocolate lover’s dream. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and you’ve got an indulgent treat that’s impossible to resist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is fast, easy, and utterly decadent. It requires just a handful of pantry staples, comes together in one bowl, and bakes into a dessert that tastes like it came from a fancy restaurant. Whether you’re looking for something special for a dinner party or a simple weeknight indulgence, Hot Fudge Pie is always a hit. The contrast of the warm, gooey chocolate and a cold scoop of ice cream is pure magic.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Unsalted butter
- Granulated sugar
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- Eggs
- All-purpose flour
- Vanilla extract
- Salt
- Optional: chocolate chips or chopped nuts
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, melt the butter. Stir in sugar and cocoa powder until well blended.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
- Stir in flour, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until just combined. Do not overmix.
- If using, fold in chocolate chips or nuts.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9-inch pie plate or baking dish.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is set but the center is still soft and fudgy.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields about 8 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30–35 minutes
Cool time: 5–10 minutes before serving
Variations
- Espresso twist: Add a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.
- Nutty pie: Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch and richness.
- Peanut butter swirl: Drop spoonfuls of peanut butter on top before baking and swirl with a knife.
- Double chocolate: Stir in chocolate chips for extra fudginess.
- Gluten-free: Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make it gluten-free.
storage/reheating
Store leftover pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
To reheat, warm slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or place in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes.
You can also freeze it—wrap tightly and store for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
FAQs
Can I use Dutch-processed cocoa instead of regular cocoa?
Yes, Dutch-processed cocoa works and gives a slightly smoother, richer chocolate flavor.
Should the center still be gooey when it’s done?
Yes! The center should remain soft and fudgy—it’s what makes this pie so irresistible.
Can I use a boxed brownie mix?
You could, but the homemade version has a richer texture and deeper flavor. It’s worth the few extra steps.
Do I need to use a pie dish?
A 9-inch round cake pan or square baking dish will also work. Just keep an eye on baking time.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best served warm. Reheat in the oven or microwave just before serving.
What’s the best way to serve Hot Fudge Pie?
Warm, with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Fresh berries also make a nice addition.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Increase the baking time slightly.
Why is my pie too dry?
Overbaking can dry it out. Check for doneness at 30 minutes—the center should still jiggle slightly.
Can I make this pie without eggs?
It’s possible with egg substitutes like flax eggs or commercial egg replacers, though texture may vary.
Is this pie supposed to be super sweet?
It is rich and sweet by design, but you can reduce the sugar slightly if desired without compromising the structure.
Conclusion
Hot Fudge Pie is the kind of dessert that feels like a warm hug. It’s simple to make, outrageously chocolatey, and guaranteed to satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you serve it at a dinner party or just whip it up for yourself on a cozy night in, this pie will have everyone asking for seconds.
PrintHot Fudge Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Hot Fudge Pie is a rich, gooey dessert that’s somewhere between a brownie and a molten chocolate cake. With a crisp top and a fudgy center, this easy-to-make pie is perfect served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s the ultimate treat for chocolate lovers!
Ingredients
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp salt
Optional: vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, for serving
Instructions
-
Preheat oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8-inch pie plate or baking dish. -
Mix wet ingredients:
In a medium bowl, stir together the melted butter, sugar, and cocoa powder until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla. -
Add dry ingredients:
Gently fold in the flour and salt until just combined. Do not overmix. -
Bake:
Pour the batter into the prepared pie plate and smooth the top. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is set and slightly cracked, but the center is still soft and fudgy.
-
Cool and serve:
Let the pie cool slightly before serving. Best enjoyed warm with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Notes
-
The pie is meant to be soft and gooey in the center—don’t overbake!
-
You can add chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the batter for extra texture.
-
Great for making ahead—just reheat slices in the microwave before serving.
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