Introduction
Indulge in a delicious dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the delightful crunch of an Oreo crust. This decadent pie is perfect for any occasion, offering a creamy filling that pairs wonderfully with freshly whipped cream. With a few simple steps, you can create a stunning treat that will impress family and friends alike.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Crust:
– 25 Oreo biscuits (whole, with filling intact)
– 60g (4 tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted
Filling:
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 2/3 cup caster sugar (superfine sugar)
– Pinch of salt
– 2 cups milk (whole or reduced fat, not zero fat)
– 1 cup cream (pouring or thickened/heavy), or substitute with milk
– 4 egg yolks from large eggs
– 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, cut into 1cm (0.5″) cubes
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 150g (5 oz) dark 70% cocoa chocolate or bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped
– 75g (3 oz) milk chocolate, finely chopped
Whipped Cream:
– 1 1/2 cups whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Garnish (optional):
– Chocolate, for grating
Prep Time
Preparation Time:
– 30 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time:
– 10 minutes baking, 30 minutes cooking
Total Time:
– 12 hours and 40 minutes (including chilling time)
Yield:
– Serves approximately 8 slices
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Crust:
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Break the Oreo biscuits into rough pieces and place them in a food processor.
– Process until they form fine crumbs, about 10 seconds.
– Add the melted butter and process again until the mixture resembles wet sand.
– Transfer the crumb mixture into a 9-inch pie dish.
– Spread the crumbs evenly and press firmly into the base and up the sides using your hands, a spatula, or a flat-bottomed object.
– Bake for 10 minutes.
– Remove from the oven; the crust will be slightly puffed.
– Gently press down using a rubber spatula to compact the crust further.
– Allow to cool on the counter before adding the filling.
Prepare the Filling:
– In a large saucepan, combine the cornstarch, sugar, and a pinch of salt.
– Whisk to combine.
– Add the milk, cream, and egg yolks.
– Whisk until smooth.
– Place the saucepan over medium-high heat.
– As the mixture warms, whisk occasionally.
– When steam begins to rise (around 3–5 minutes), reduce the heat to medium-low and whisk constantly.
– The mixture will start to thicken.
– Once slow, lazy bubbles appear (about 6 minutes), continue whisking for 45 seconds, then remove from heat.
– Add the butter, chopped dark chocolate, milk chocolate, and vanilla extract.
– Whisk until the chocolate and butter have melted and the filling is smooth.
Assemble the Pie:
– Pour the hot filling into the cooled pie crust, filling it right to the top.
– Smooth the surface with a spatula.
– Gently place a round piece of parchment paper directly on the surface to prevent a skin from forming.
– Allow to cool on the counter for 2 hours.
– Transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 12 hours to allow the custard to fully set.
– Carefully remove the parchment paper before serving.
Prepare the Whipped Cream:
– In a mixing bowl, combine the whipping cream, sugar, and vanilla extract.
– Beat on high speed for 2–3 minutes until soft peaks form.
Serve:
– Pile the whipped cream onto the set pie.
– Grate chocolate over the top for garnish, if desired.
– Keep the pie in the pie dish.
– Slice and serve.
– The pie will keep for around 3 days in the refrigerator.
Notes
Storage:
– Store the pie in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness and texture.
Chocolate Options:
– Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor and ensure proper melting for a smooth filling.
Whipped Cream Consistency:
– Be cautious not to overbeat the whipping cream, as it can become grainy if beaten too long.
Serving Suggestions:
– Pairs well with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added flavor.
Cook techniques
Crust Preparation
To create the crust, crush Oreo biscuits in a food processor until they form fine crumbs. Combine this with melted butter to achieve a wet-sand consistency. Press the mixture firmly into a pie dish, ensuring even coverage, and pre-bake for 10 minutes to set the crust.
Filling Cooking
For the filling, whisk together cornstarch, sugar, and salt, then incorporate milk, cream, and egg yolks. Heat the mixture on medium-high, whisking until it thickens. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in butter, chopped dark, and milk chocolate until smooth.
Assembly
After cooling the crust, pour the hot filling into the crust and smooth the surface. Cover with parchment paper to prevent skin formation. Allow the pie to cool on the counter for 2 hours before refrigerating for a minimum of 12 hours.
Whipped Cream Preparation
Combine whipping cream, sugar, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl. Beat the mixture on high speed until soft peaks form, creating a light and airy whipped cream.
Serving the Pie
Top the chilled pie with whipped cream and optionally grate chocolate over the surface for an aesthetic finish. Slice and serve the pie, which can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
FAQ
Can I use other types of cookies for the crust?
Yes, you can use other types of cookies such as chocolate chip cookies or graham crackers, but you may need to adjust the butter quantity.
What can I substitute for the heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with an equal amount of whole milk, though the filling may not be as rich and creamy.
How can I know when the filling is cooked properly?
The filling is done when it starts to bubble slowly and thickens noticeably; it should not be overly thick or rubbery.
Is it necessary to chill the pie for 12 hours?
Yes, chilling the pie for at least 12 hours allows the custard to fully set and develop its flavors.
Can I make the whipped cream in advance?
It’s best to make whipped cream fresh, as it can deflate over time. However, you can make it a few hours ahead and store it in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
Indulging in a rich and creamy pie filled with chocolate goodness and served on a crunchy Oreo crust is a delightful experience. The combination of dark and milk chocolates creates a velvety filling that pairs perfectly with the light and fluffy whipped cream on top. This dessert is sure to impress even the most discerning chocolate lover and makes for a stunning centerpiece for any occasion.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chocolate Hazelnut Tart
Combine a hazelnut crust with a chocolate ganache filling, and top it with caramelized hazelnuts for added crunch.
White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake
Create a creamy cheesecake with white chocolate and fold in fresh raspberries, served on a graham cracker crust.
Peanut Butter Cup Pie
Layer a peanut butter filling over an Oreo crust and pour melted chocolate on top, garnished with crushed peanuts.
Mint Chocolate Chip Pie
Incorporate peppermint extract into the chocolate filling and add chocolate chips, garnished with whipped cream and mint leaves.
Fruit Tart with Custard Filling
Use a buttery tart crust and fill it with custard, then top with seasonal fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi for a refreshing touch.
