If you’ve been searching for the ultimate chocolate treat, look no further than Hot Fudge Pie. This classic American dessert combines all the best parts of a brownie and a molten chocolate cake: a delicately crisp top, fudgy, gooey center, and that deep cocoa flavor we all crave. In just about 40 minutes, you can have a warm, chocolatey masterpiece ready to share (or savor solo). With simple pantry staples and an easy, unfussy method, this pie promises maximum indulgence with minimal effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s amazing how a handful of everyday ingredients can create such a memorable dessert. Each component in this Hot Fudge Pie recipe brings uniqueness to the table, offering the right blend of richness, sweetness, and that craveworthy gooiness.
- Unsalted butter: Melted for a luxuriously rich crumb and that unmistakable fudge texture.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the pie just enough and gives the top its delicate cracked finish.
- Large eggs: Add structure, moisture, and that irresistible custardy bite right in the center.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Delivers deep chocolate flavor—be sure to use a good-quality cocoa for best results.
- All-purpose flour: Just a touch is all you need; it binds everything together without losing fudge-factor.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the chocolate with a subtle warmth and inviting aroma.
- Salt: A pinch highlights the sweetness and makes the cocoa shine.
How to Make Hot Fudge Pie
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish to ensure every luscious slice of Hot Fudge Pie releases easily. This simple step sets you up for pie perfection with zero sticking.
Step 2: Combine Butter and Sugar
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and glossy. This not only dissolves the sugar but also gives your pie that signature crackly top.
Step 3: Add the Eggs
Crack in the eggs, one at a time, whisking well after each addition. This helps the batter become silky and ensures a perfectly tender, almost custardy middle—just what we love about Hot Fudge Pie.
Step 4: Stir in the Dry Ingredients
Add the cocoa powder, flour, vanilla extract, and salt straight into the wet ingredients. Stir gently until everything is just combined and luscious with no dry spots remaining. Don’t overmix—stir only until you get a homogenous, thick batter.
Step 5: Bake the Pie
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pie dish, using a spatula to smooth the top, then slide it into the hot oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The hallmark of Hot Fudge Pie is a set top with a center that’s still fudgy—don’t overbake! The middle should still wobble just a bit.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let the pie cool for about 10 minutes. This brief rest allows the fudgy center to firm up slightly but stay lusciously gooey. Slice while still warm, and serve with ice cream or whipped cream for a truly decadent experience.
How to Serve Hot Fudge Pie
Garnishes
Top slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate hot-and-cold contrast, or dollop with billowy whipped cream. If you’re feeling extra fancy, drizzle with warm chocolate syrup or sprinkle on a handful of chopped nuts for some crunch.
Side Dishes
Since Hot Fudge Pie is deeply rich, pair it with fresh berries, sliced bananas, or even a few crisp butter cookies. These little sides offer a refreshing balance and bring out even more flavor from each sumptuous bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For dinner parties, try baking individual pies in ramekins—so everyone gets their own molten center. Or, serve tiny wedges on a dessert platter alongside tiny espresso cups. If it’s a holiday, add a dusting of powdered sugar or festive sprinkles for visual flair!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Hot Fudge Pie can be covered tightly and stored at room temperature for up to two days. If you’d like to keep it longer, refrigerate for up to five days—just bring to room temperature before enjoying for best flavor and texture.
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze Hot Fudge Pie! Wrap individual slices or the whole pie (once cooled) tightly in plastic wrap and again in foil. Freeze for up to two months. To thaw, let it sit in the refrigerator overnight or on the counter for a few hours.
Reheating
Want to recapture that warm, gooey center? Gently reheat slices in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds. Alternatively, warm in a 300°F oven for a few minutes. Add your favorite toppings and enjoy—just like fresh-baked!
FAQs
Can I use salted butter if that’s what I have?
Absolutely! If you’re using salted butter, simply reduce the added salt in the recipe by half or leave it out entirely. Your Hot Fudge Pie will still taste wonderfully rich and chocolaty.
What kind of cocoa powder works best?
Any unsweetened cocoa powder works well, but high-quality Dutch-processed cocoa will give the pie an extra-deep, luxurious chocolate flavor and richness. Use what you love most!
How do I know when my Hot Fudge Pie is done?
Look for a set top and slightly wobbly center when you gently shake the dish. Don’t overbake—this will keep the unmistakable gooey, fudgy texture that makes Hot Fudge Pie so special.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
You can! Simply double all the ingredients and bake the batter in a 9×13-inch baking dish instead. Be sure to start checking for doneness at around 28 minutes, since bake times may vary.
Is it OK to make Hot Fudge Pie a day in advance?
Yes—while nothing beats a just-baked pie, you can make it a day ahead. Gently warm slices before serving to bring back some of that fresh-from-the-oven fudginess.
Final Thoughts
If you’re seeking a dessert that’s as easy as it is unforgettable, give Hot Fudge Pie a try. With its crackly top, molten middle, and cozy chocolate aroma, it’s a guaranteed hit whether you’re serving friends, family, or just treating yourself. Grab your ingredients and bake up some happiness—you might just discover a new favorite!
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Hot Fudge Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the decadent richness of Hot Fudge Pie, a fudgy and gooey chocolate dessert that is sure to satisfy your sweet cravings. This easy-to-make pie is a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish.
- Mix butter and sugar: In a medium bowl, whisk together melted butter and sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs and dry ingredients: Add eggs one at a time, whisking well. Stir in cocoa powder, flour, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
- Pour and bake: Pour batter into the pie dish, spread evenly, and bake for 25–30 minutes until the top is set but the center remains gooey.
- Cool and serve: Let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream.
Notes
- The pie should be fudgy and rich in the center, avoid overbaking.
- For extra indulgence, drizzle with chocolate syrup or sprinkle with chopped nuts.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
