When you can’t decide between a rich, fudgy brownie and a classic, flaky pie, why not combine the two into a decadent dessert that offers the best of both worlds? This Brownie Pie is the ultimate indulgence, featuring a buttery, flaky pie crust filled with a gooey, chocolatey brownie that will leave you craving for more. This recipe is straightforward yet yields an impressive dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into the details of creating this mouthwatering treat.
Ingredients
For this irresistible Brownie Pie, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Pie Crust:
- 1 recipe All Butter Pie Crust (or one refrigerated crust from a pack of 2)
For the Brownie Filling:
- 2 ounces unsweetened baking chocolate
- 2 ounces semi-sweet baking chocolate
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions
Preparing the Pie Crust
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Pie Crust: Roll out your all butter pie crust and press it into a 9-inch pie plate. Trim and crimp the edges as desired. Chill the crust in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling. If you prefer a crunchy bottom crust, you can partially bake the crust before adding the filling:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dry beans.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment paper.
Making the Brownie Filling
- Melt Chocolate and Butter: Place the unsweetened baking chocolate, semi-sweet baking chocolate, and butter in a large microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second increments, stirring between each session, until the mixture is melted and smooth. This should take about 2 minutes, depending on your microwave.
- Mix in Sugar and Eggs: Stir the granulated sugar into the melted chocolate mixture. Add the eggs one at a time, stirring well after each addition until fully combined.
- Add Flavorings and Dry Ingredients: Stir in the vanilla extract, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt until the mixture is smooth. Finally, carefully fold in the all-purpose flour until fully incorporated.
Assembling and Baking the Pie
- Fill the Pie Crust: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pie crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Bake the Pie: Place the pie on a cookie sheet to catch any potential drips. Cover the edges of the pie crust with a pie crust shield or strips of aluminum foil to prevent them from burning. Bake in the preheated oven for 38-48 minutes, until the top is cracked. For a gooey center, bake for about 38 minutes (a toothpick inserted will come out wet). If you prefer a more set center, bake for a few minutes longer, until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs but no wet batter.
- Golden Crust: Remember to remove the pie crust shield or foil strips after 20-25 minutes of baking to allow the crust edges to turn a beautiful golden brown.
Cooling and Serving
- Cool the Pie: Let the pie cool completely before slicing to allow the filling to set. This can take about 2-3 hours at room temperature.
- Serve: Serve the pie slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
- Store: Store any leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze individual slices for up to one month.
Tips for Perfect Brownie Pie
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother batter.
- Microwave Melting: When melting the chocolate and butter, stir frequently to prevent burning and ensure a smooth mixture.
- Prevent Overbaking: Keep an eye on the pie during the last 10 minutes of baking to avoid overbaking, which can lead to a dry texture.
- Chilling the Crust: Chilling the pie crust before adding the filling helps prevent it from shrinking during baking.
Variations to Try
- Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts) to the brownie batter for added crunch and flavor.
- Salted Caramel: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the baked pie and sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt for a sweet and salty twist.
- Mint Chocolate: Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract into the brownie batter and top with crushed candy canes or mint chocolate chips for a festive flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- With Ice Cream: Serve each slice warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing.
- With Coffee: Enjoy a slice of brownie pie with a hot cup of coffee or espresso for a delightful afternoon treat.
- As a Party Dessert: This pie is perfect for parties and gatherings, offering a rich and satisfying dessert that guests will love.
Nutritional Information
For those mindful of their dietary intake, here’s a brief nutritional breakdown per serving (based on an approximate serving size):
- Calories: 476 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Sugars: 45g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
The Joy of Baking Brownie Pie
Baking a Brownie Pie is more than just making a dessert; it’s about creating a decadent treat that brings joy and satisfaction. The process of mixing the ingredients, watching the pie rise and crackle in the oven, and enjoying the rich chocolate aroma that fills your kitchen is both rewarding and enjoyable. The anticipation of slicing into the pie and seeing the gooey, fudgy center is a moment of pure bliss.
Hosting with Brownie Pie
Brownie Pie is perfect for parties and gatherings. Here are a few tips to make it a hit at your next event:
- Presentation: Serve the pie on a beautiful cake stand or platter, garnished with chocolate shavings or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
- Personalize: You can personalize the pie with different toppings or flavorings to suit the theme of your party. For example, adding colorful sprinkles can make it more festive for a birthday celebration.
- Pairing Drinks: Consider serving the pie with a selection of beverages that complement its flavors, such as milk, coffee, or a dessert wine.
Making Memories with Family and Friends
Baking and enjoying Brownie Pie is not just about the delicious flavors; it’s also about making memories with family and friends. Whether you’re baking it with your loved ones, serving it at a gathering, or enjoying it as a simple dessert, it’s a recipe that brings people together.
Storing and Reheating
- In the Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The pie tastes best when fresh.
- Freezing: You can freeze Brownie Pie for up to a month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
- Reheating: To enjoy warm pie, reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the pie soggy.
Tips for Success
- Softening the Butter: If you’re in a hurry, soften the butter by microwaving it for 10-15 seconds.
- Mixing by Hand: If you don’t have a hand mixer, you can mix the ingredients by hand using a whisk. Just make sure to blend thoroughly to achieve a smooth texture.
- Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet pie, you can reduce the amount of granulated sugar in the recipe.
The Versatility of Brownie Pie
The simplicity and versatility of Brownie Pie make it a go-to recipe for many occasions. You can easily customize it with your favorite flavors and garnishes, making it suitable for everything from casual family nights to festive celebrations.
Conclusion
Brownie Pie is a moist, flavorful, and versatile treat that’s incredibly easy to make and even easier to enjoy. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it with fresh fruit, ice cream, or enjoying it on its own, this pie is sure to be a hit.
The combination of rich chocolate flavor and a tender, flaky crust creates a dessert that’s light, refreshing, and irresistibly delicious. The ease of preparation and the delightful flavors make Brownie Pie a must-try recipe.
Enjoy making and sharing this delicious Brownie Pie, and savor every sweet, chocolatey bite. Happy baking!
When you can’t decide between a rich, fudgy brownie and a classic, flaky pie, why not combine the two into a decadent dessert that offers the best of both worlds? This Brownie Pie is the ultimate indulgence, featuring a buttery, flaky pie crust filled with a gooey, chocolatey brownie that will leave you craving for more. This recipe is straightforward yet yields an impressive dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into the details of creating this mouthwatering treat.
Ingredients
For this irresistible Brownie Pie, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Pie Crust:
- 1 recipe All Butter Pie Crust (or one refrigerated crust from a pack of 2)
For the Brownie Filling:
- 2 ounces unsweetened baking chocolate
- 2 ounces semi-sweet baking chocolate
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions
Preparing the Pie Crust
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Pie Crust: Roll out your all butter pie crust and press it into a 9-inch pie plate. Trim and crimp the edges as desired. Chill the crust in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling. If you prefer a crunchy bottom crust, you can partially bake the crust before adding the filling:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dry beans.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment paper.
Making the Brownie Filling
- Melt Chocolate and Butter: Place the unsweetened baking chocolate, semi-sweet baking chocolate, and butter in a large microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second increments, stirring between each session, until the mixture is melted and smooth. This should take about 2 minutes, depending on your microwave.
- Mix in Sugar and Eggs: Stir the granulated sugar into the melted chocolate mixture. Add the eggs one at a time, stirring well after each addition until fully combined.
- Add Flavorings and Dry Ingredients: Stir in the vanilla extract, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt until the mixture is smooth. Finally, carefully fold in the all-purpose flour until fully incorporated.
Assembling and Baking the Pie
- Fill the Pie Crust: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pie crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Bake the Pie: Place the pie on a cookie sheet to catch any potential drips. Cover the edges of the pie crust with a pie crust shield or strips of aluminum foil to prevent them from burning. Bake in the preheated oven for 38-48 minutes, until the top is cracked. For a gooey center, bake for about 38 minutes (a toothpick inserted will come out wet). If you prefer a more set center, bake for a few minutes longer, until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs but no wet batter.
- Golden Crust: Remember to remove the pie crust shield or foil strips after 20-25 minutes of baking to allow the crust edges to turn a beautiful golden brown.
Cooling and Serving
- Cool the Pie: Let the pie cool completely before slicing to allow the filling to set. This can take about 2-3 hours at room temperature.
- Serve: Serve the pie slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
- Store: Store any leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze individual slices for up to one month.
Tips for Perfect Brownie Pie
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother batter.
- Microwave Melting: When melting the chocolate and butter, stir frequently to prevent burning and ensure a smooth mixture.
- Prevent Overbaking: Keep an eye on the pie during the last 10 minutes of baking to avoid overbaking, which can lead to a dry texture.
- Chilling the Crust: Chilling the pie crust before adding the filling helps prevent it from shrinking during baking.
Variations to Try
- Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts) to the brownie batter for added crunch and flavor.
- Salted Caramel: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the baked pie and sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt for a sweet and salty twist.
- Mint Chocolate: Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract into the brownie batter and top with crushed candy canes or mint chocolate chips for a festive flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- With Ice Cream: Serve each slice warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing.
- With Coffee: Enjoy a slice of brownie pie with a hot cup of coffee or espresso for a delightful afternoon treat.
- As a Party Dessert: This pie is perfect for parties and gatherings, offering a rich and satisfying dessert that guests will love.
Nutritional Information
For those mindful of their dietary intake, here’s a brief nutritional breakdown per serving (based on an approximate serving size):
- Calories: 476 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Sugars: 45g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
The Joy of Baking Brownie Pie
Baking a Brownie Pie is more than just making a dessert; it’s about creating a decadent treat that brings joy and satisfaction. The process of mixing the ingredients, watching the pie rise and crackle in the oven, and enjoying the rich chocolate aroma that fills your kitchen is both rewarding and enjoyable. The anticipation of slicing into the pie and seeing the gooey, fudgy center is a moment of pure bliss.
Hosting with Brownie Pie
Brownie Pie is perfect for parties and gatherings. Here are a few tips to make it a hit at your next event:
- Presentation: Serve the pie on a beautiful cake stand or platter, garnished with chocolate shavings or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
- Personalize: You can personalize the pie with different toppings or flavorings to suit the theme of your party. For example, adding colorful sprinkles can make it more festive for a birthday celebration.
- Pairing Drinks: Consider serving the pie with a selection of beverages that complement its flavors, such as milk, coffee, or a dessert wine.
Making Memories with Family and Friends
Baking and enjoying Brownie Pie is not just about the delicious flavors; it’s also about making memories with family and friends. Whether you’re baking it with your loved ones, serving it at a gathering, or enjoying it as a simple dessert, it’s a recipe that brings people together.
Storing and Reheating
- In the Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The pie tastes best when fresh.
- Freezing: You can freeze Brownie Pie for up to a month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
- Reheating: To enjoy warm pie, reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the pie soggy.
Tips for Success
- Softening the Butter: If you’re in a hurry, soften the butter by microwaving it for 10-15 seconds.
- Mixing by Hand: If you don’t have a hand mixer, you can mix the ingredients by hand using a whisk. Just make sure to blend thoroughly to achieve a smooth texture.
- Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet pie, you can reduce the amount of granulated sugar in the recipe.
The Versatility of Brownie Pie
The simplicity and versatility of Brownie Pie make it a go-to recipe for many occasions. You can easily customize it with your favorite flavors and garnishes, making it suitable for everything from casual family nights to festive celebrations.
Conclusion
Brownie Pie is a moist, flavorful, and versatile treat that’s incredibly easy to make and even easier to enjoy. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it with fresh fruit, ice cream, or enjoying it on its own, this pie is sure to be a hit.
The combination of rich chocolate flavor and a tender, flaky crust creates a dessert that’s light, refreshing, and irresistibly delicious. The ease of preparation and the delightful flavors make Brownie Pie a must-try recipe.
Enjoy making and sharing this delicious Brownie Pie, and savor every sweet, chocolatey bite. Happy baking!