Mini Chocolate Pies
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Create delightful Mini Chocolate Pies that are perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy winter evenings. These rich and creamy chocolate cream pies feature a buttery crust filled with velvety chocolate filling, topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings. This bite-sized treat is a festive addition to your dessert table and sure to satisfy any sweet tooth this holiday season.
Mini Chocolate Pies are not just treats; they're a symbol of joy during festive times. Each bite brings the warmth of homemade desserts.
The Perfect Holiday Treat
Mini Chocolate Pies are an ideal dessert for any holiday gathering. Their bite-sized portions make them easy to serve and enjoy, making them a perfect addition to your festive table. Guests of all ages are sure to delight in these sweet treats, which are rich in flavor yet light enough to leave room for other desserts.
By preparing these Mini Chocolate Pies, you’re not only treating your guests to something delicious, but you’re also providing a fun, interactive way to indulge during the festivities. Everyone loves chocolate, and these mini pies will have guests coming back for seconds.
Rich Chocolate Flavor
The filling for these Mini Chocolate Pies is an indulgent blend of heavy cream and semi-sweet chocolate, creating a luxurious texture that melts in your mouth. The addition of egg yolks helps to create a custard-like consistency, ensuring each bite is rich and satisfying.
Pairing this decadent filling with a buttery crust adds a beautiful contrast of flavors and textures. The light, flaky crust provides the perfect base for the creamy chocolate filling, making for a delightful dessert experience. Each pie is a harmonious balance of sweet and savory.
Easy to Customize
One of the best parts about these Mini Chocolate Pies is their versatility. You can easily customize the toppings to suit your preferences or the occasion. Whether you opt for a classic whipped cream topping or want to experiment with fruit garnishes, the choice is yours.
For a festive touch, consider adding crushed peppermint or seasonal spices to the filling. With a few simple tweaks, you can create a unique dessert that reflects your personal style or the theme of your gathering.
Ingredients
For the crust
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3-4 tbsp cold water
For the filling
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the topping
- 1 cup whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings for garnish
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature except when specified otherwise.
Instructions
Make the crust
In a bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the cold water, a tablespoon at a time, until the mixture forms a ball.
Prepare the filling
In a saucepan, combine heavy cream and sugar over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and add chopped chocolate, stirring until melted. In a bowl, whisk egg yolks and combine with chocolate mixture, then add vanilla.
Assemble the pies
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough and cut into circles. Fit into a mini pie pan and bake for about 10 minutes or until lightly golden.
Add toppings
Once the filling is set, top each pie with whipped cream and sprinkle with chocolate shavings. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Enjoy your delicious Mini Chocolate Pies with family and friends!
Tips for Success
To ensure a perfectly flaky crust, make sure to use chilled butter. The colder the butter, the more it will flake during baking, resulting in a light and airy crust. Additionally, avoid overworking the dough to prevent it from becoming tough.
When preparing the filling, take care not to overheat the cream. If it boils, it may affect the texture of the chocolate mixture. Heat slowly and stir gently to create a smooth, velvety filling.
Storage Suggestions
These Mini Chocolate Pies can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to cover them with plastic wrap or foil to keep them fresh. However, be aware that whipped cream toppings may lose their shape over time.
For longer storage, consider making the crust and filling separately. The crust can be frozen, while the filling can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a month. Just let them thaw before assembling.
Perfect Pairings
These Mini Chocolate Pies pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages. A rich cup of coffee or a warm mug of hot cocoa complements the dessert’s creamy texture beautifully, making for a cozy winter treat.
If you prefer a chilled drink, a glass of milk or a creamy vanilla smoothie can enhance the sweet flavors of the pies. Whatever your choice, these pairings will elevate your dessert experience during the holiday season.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these pies in advance?
Yes! You can make the filling a day ahead and assemble them shortly before serving.
→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Mini Chocolate Pies
Create delightful Mini Chocolate Pies that are perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy winter evenings. These rich and creamy chocolate cream pies feature a buttery crust filled with velvety chocolate filling, topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings. This bite-sized treat is a festive addition to your dessert table and sure to satisfy any sweet tooth this holiday season.
Created by: Ella
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 mini pies
What You'll Need
For the crust
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3-4 tbsp cold water
For the filling
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the topping
- 1 cup whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings for garnish
How-To Steps
In a bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the cold water, a tablespoon at a time, until the mixture forms a ball. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for 30 minutes.
In a saucepan, combine heavy cream and sugar over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and add chopped chocolate, stirring until melted. In a bowl, whisk egg yolks and combine with chocolate mixture, then add vanilla.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough and cut into circles. Fit into a mini pie pan and bake for about 10 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow to cool, then fill with chocolate filling.
Once the filling is set, top each pie with whipped cream and sprinkle with chocolate shavings. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 3g