Introduction
Dive into a world of deliciousness with this decadent pie that combines the rich flavors of chocolate, the fluffiness of marshmallows, and a hint of mint. Perfect for any celebration or as a delightful treat, this pie is sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s explore the ingredients and methods to create this heavenly dessert.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
Crust:
– 2 cups finely ground chocolate cream cookie crumbs (from 23-24 Oreo cookies)
– 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Filling:
– ⅔ cup whole milk
– 26 large marshmallows (approximately 6 ounces)
– 3 tablespoons green crème de menthe liqueur
– 2 tablespoons clear crème de cacao
– 2-3 drops green food coloring (optional)
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream, very cold
Garnish:
– Roughly crushed chocolate cream cookies (from 2-3 Oreo cookies)
Prep Time
Preparation time for this delightful pie takes around 20 minutes, plus an additional minimum of 4 hours for freezing.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is approximately 10 minutes for baking the crust. The total time, including preparation and freezing, is about 4 hours and 30 minutes. This recipe yields one 9-inch pie, perfect for serving 8-10 people.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Crust:
– Preheat the oven to 350°F.
– In a medium mixing bowl, combine the finely ground chocolate cookie crumbs and melted unsalted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
– Press the mixture evenly into a 9-inch, freezer-safe pie plate to form a crust, ensuring it’s tightly packed on the bottom and up the sides.
– Bake the crust for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely on the counter.
Prepare the Filling:
– In a large saucepan over medium heat, warm the whole milk for 2-3 minutes until it starts to steam and bubbles form around the edges. Do not boil. Stir often to prevent burning.
– Add the marshmallows to the hot milk. Stir continuously until they are completely melted and no lumps remain. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally.
– In a large mixing bowl, beat the very cold heavy whipping cream using a handheld mixer on medium-high speed for 2-3 minutes until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
– To the cooled marshmallow mixture, add the green crème de menthe liqueur and clear crème de cacao. Stir until fully incorporated. If desired, add 2-3 drops of green food coloring and mix until the color is uniform.
– Gently fold the marshmallow mixture into the whipped cream until no white streaks remain and the filling is smooth and fluffy.
Assemble the Pie:
– Pour the filling into the cooled chocolate pie crust, smoothing the top to an even layer.
– Garnish with the roughly crushed chocolate cream cookies.
– Freeze the pie for a minimum of 4 hours or up to overnight until the filling is firm and fully set.
Serve:
– Once set, slice and serve the pie directly from the freezer. Enjoy!
Notes
Cookie Crumbs:
– Finely ground chocolate cream cookie crumbs can be made by processing Oreo cookies in a food processor. Ensure there are no large pieces for a smooth crust.
Cooling Time:
– Allow the marshmallow mixture to cool to room temperature before folding in the whipped cream to maintain the fluffiness of the filling.
Whipping Cream:
– The heavy whipping cream should be very cold for optimal whipping. Place it in the refrigerator prior to use if possible.
Serving Suggestions:
– This pie pairs well with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or additional whipped cream when serving.
Cook techniques
Making a Cookie Crust
To create a cookie crust, finely grind the cookies until they resemble fine crumbs. Combine the crumbs with melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand, making sure to pack it tightly into the pie plate for a sturdy base.
Melting Marshmallows
When melting marshmallows, use low to medium heat to warm the milk gradually. Add the marshmallows to the hot milk and stir continuously to prevent burning, ensuring they melt completely into a smooth mixture.
Whipping Cream
For fluffy whipped cream, start with very cold heavy whipping cream. Use a handheld mixer on medium-high speed, and whip until stiff peaks form, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This will provide a light texture to the filling.
Folding Ingredients
Gently fold the cooled marshmallow mixture into the whipped cream using a spatula. This method preserves the airiness of the whipped cream, avoiding any deflation and ensuring a light filling.
Freezing the Pie
Once assembled, freeze the pie for at least 4 hours or overnight to achieve a firm filling. This step is crucial for the pie to slice cleanly and maintain its structure when served.
FAQ
Can I use other types of cookies for the crust?
Yes, you can substitute chocolate cream cookies with other cookie varieties like graham crackers or vanilla wafers, but the flavor and texture will vary.
Is it necessary to use liqueurs in the filling?
While the liqueurs add flavor, you can omit them or substitute with extracts like peppermint or vanilla if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.
How should I store the pie after making it?
The pie should be stored in the freezer, covered tightly to prevent freezer burn, and can last for up to a week.
Can I make the pie ahead of time?
Yes, this pie can be made up to 2 days in advance. Just ensure it is properly frozen and covered.
What should I do if the filling doesn’t set properly?
If the filling is too soft, it may need additional freezing time. Make sure it has set completely before serving or consider adding more whipped cream to stabilize it.
Conclusion
This creamy and decadent chocolate mint pie offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, with a rich chocolate crust and a fluffy marshmallow filling infused with the refreshing taste of mint. Perfect for parties, special occasions, or simply as a treat to enjoy, this pie is sure to impress everyone at the table.
Chocolate Mint Brownies
Combine elements of the pie in rich brownies by adding crème de menthe liqueur and chocolate chips for a chewy treat.
Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies
Make cookies using chocolate cream cookie crumbs for the base, adding mint chips for a fresh contrast.
Minty Milkshake
Blend whole milk with ice cream and green crème de menthe for a refreshing milkshake that echoes the the flavor of the pie.
Chocolate Mint Cheesecake
Create a cheesecake using a chocolate cookie crust and a mint-flavored filling for a creamy dessert experience.
Layered Mint Parfait
Layer crushed chocolate cookies, whipped cream, and a mint-flavored mousse in a glass for an elegant dessert option.
