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Decadent Chocolate Crust Pie with Fudgy Cake Layer and Streusel Topping
Introduction
There’s nothing quite like a rich, chocolatey dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth. This chocolate crust pie combines several layers of chocolate indulgence: a chocolate graham cracker crust, a fudgy cake layer, a chocolate streusel topping, and a luscious chocolate ganache drizzle. Each component adds depth and texture, creating a dessert that is as visually appealing as it is delicious. Perfect for special occasions or a luxurious treat, this pie is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to create this decadent dessert.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Crust:
- 1 cup crushed chocolate graham crackers
- 5 tablespoons salted butter, melted
For the Fudgy Cake Layer:
- 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 3/4 cup salted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder (optional)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Streusel:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup salted butter, cold
- 2 chocolate graham crackers, roughly chopped
For the Ganache:
- 3 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 3 ounces heavy cream (about 1/3 cup)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Crust
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is ready when it’s time to bake the crust.
- Mix Crust Ingredients: In a small mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of crushed chocolate graham crackers with 5 tablespoons of melted salted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
- Form the Crust: Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of a standard pie plate (not deep dish). Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a measuring cup to press the crumbs evenly across the bottom and slightly up the sides of the pie plate.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 7 minutes. This step helps to set the crust, providing a firm base for the subsequent layers. Once done, set the crust aside to cool slightly while you prepare the fudgy cake layer.
Step 2: Make the Fudgy Cake Layer
- Melt Chocolate and Butter: Place 8 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate chips and 3/4 cup of salted butter into a microwave-safe mixing bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the chocolate and butter are fully melted and smooth.
- Add Dry Ingredients: To the melted chocolate and butter mixture, add 1 cup of granulated sugar, 3/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, and 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder (if using). Stir until combined.
- Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Add 4 large eggs and 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract to the mixture. Use a hand mixer to beat the mixture until just combined. Do not overmix. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure all ingredients are incorporated.
- Pour into Crust: Pour the fudgy cake batter into the pre-baked chocolate graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Streusel Topping
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, stir together 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, and 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder.
- Cut in Butter: Add 1/4 cup of cold salted butter to the bowl. Use a pastry blender or two knives to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles small pebbles.
- Add Graham Crackers: Stir in 2 roughly chopped chocolate graham crackers. Toss to combine.
- Sprinkle Over Batter: Evenly sprinkle the chocolate streusel mixture over the fudgy cake layer.
Step 4: Bake the Pie
- Bake: Place the pie back into the oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 to 30 minutes. The pie is done when the streusel topping is set and the fudgy cake layer is baked through but still moist.
Step 5: Make the Ganache
- Heat Cream: While the pie is baking, heat 3 ounces of heavy cream in the microwave until it is simmering, about 45 seconds.
- Combine with Chocolate: Place 3 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate chips in a mixing bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips. Let the mixture stand for 2 minutes to allow the chocolate to melt.
- Stir Until Smooth: Stir the chocolate and cream together until smooth and glossy.
Step 6: Final Assembly
- Drizzle Ganache: Once the pie is fully baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 15 minutes. Drizzle the prepared ganache over the top of the pie.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to cool completely before serving, or serve slightly warm. The pie can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Tips and Variations
- Espresso Powder: Adding espresso powder to the fudgy cake layer enhances the chocolate flavor, making it more intense. If you’re not a fan of coffee, you can omit this ingredient.
- Nutty Twist: Add a handful of chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts) to the streusel topping for added texture and flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The pie can also be frozen for longer storage; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Health Benefits
While this pie is an indulgent treat, it also offers some health benefits from its key ingredients. Dark chocolate, found in semi-sweet chocolate chips and cocoa powder, is rich in antioxidants that can support heart health. Additionally, the pie provides a good source of calcium and protein from the butter and eggs.
Conclusion
This chocolate crust pie with a fudgy cake layer and streusel topping is a decadent dessert that combines multiple layers of chocolatey goodness. The combination of textures and flavors creates a truly indulgent treat that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply treating yourself, this pie is sure to impress.
Baking this pie is a rewarding experience that allows you to create something special from scratch. The detailed steps and tips provided ensure that even novice bakers can achieve perfect results. The aroma of chocolate filling your kitchen is simply irresistible.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on the delightful journey of making this chocolate crust pie. Enjoy the process, savor the rich flavors, and indulge in every delicious bite. Happy baking!