Short Description
This Chocolate Caramel Pie is the ultimate indulgence, combining a buttery crust with a luscious caramel filling and a rich chocolate ganache topping. Every bite is a perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and slightly salty flavors, making it a favorite dessert for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It features a delicious contrast of textures—crispy crust, smooth caramel, and velvety chocolate.
- Requires simple ingredients that come together for a gourmet-level dessert.
- Perfect for special occasions, holidays, or as a luxurious treat.
- Can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to deepen overnight.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Graham cracker or shortbread crust
- Granulated sugar
- Unsalted butter
- Heavy cream
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Semi-sweet or dark chocolate
- Vanilla extract
- Sea salt (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Prepare the Crust: If using a homemade crust, combine crushed graham crackers or shortbread cookies with melted butter and press into a pie dish. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, then let it cool.
- Make the Caramel Filling: In a saucepan, melt the sugar over medium heat until golden brown. Stir in butter until fully incorporated, then slowly add heavy cream and condensed milk. Simmer until thickened, then pour into the prepared crust. Let it set in the refrigerator.
- Prepare the Chocolate Ganache: Heat heavy cream until warm, then pour over chopped chocolate. Stir until smooth and glossy.
- Assemble the Pie: Pour the ganache over the chilled caramel layer, spreading evenly. Sprinkle with sea salt if desired.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing and serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8-10 slices
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 35 minutes
Variations
- Nutty Crunch: Add a layer of chopped pecans or almonds between the caramel and chocolate layers.
- Salted Caramel Twist: Increase the sea salt for a more pronounced salted caramel flavor.
- Milk Chocolate Version: Use milk chocolate instead of dark for a sweeter taste.
- Cookie Crust: Swap the graham cracker crust for an Oreo or chocolate cookie crust for extra richness.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap the pie tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Reheating: This pie is best enjoyed cold, but if you prefer a softer texture, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.
FAQs
How do I prevent the caramel from hardening too much?
Ensure that you do not overcook the caramel. Removing it from the heat once it thickens will keep it soft and creamy.
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Yes, but homemade caramel offers a richer and more authentic flavor.
What type of chocolate is best for the ganache?
High-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate provides the best balance of sweetness and richness.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, this pie can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
What can I use instead of a graham cracker crust?
You can use a shortbread crust, chocolate cookie crust, or a traditional pie crust.
How do I get clean slices when cutting the pie?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat slices.
Can I add extra toppings?
Absolutely! Try whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or caramel drizzle.
Is this pie gluten-free?
If using a gluten-free crust, this recipe can be made gluten-free.
Can I use caramel candies instead of making homemade caramel?
You can melt caramel candies with a little heavy cream as a shortcut.
How long should I let the pie chill before serving?
At least 2 hours, but overnight chilling will yield the best results.
Conclusion
This Chocolate Caramel Pie is a rich and indulgent dessert that is sure to impress. With its creamy caramel filling, velvety chocolate topping, and crisp crust, it is a perfect treat for special occasions or simply when you crave something decadent. Make it ahead of time and enjoy a slice of pure dessert bliss!
Print
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Description
This chocolate caramel pie is a decadent dessert with a buttery crust, a rich chocolate filling, and a smooth caramel topping. Perfect for chocolate lovers!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
Instructions
- Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and press into a pie dish. Chill for 10 minutes.
- Heat cream and pour over chocolate chips. Stir until smooth.
- Pour chocolate filling into crust and refrigerate for 2 hours.
- Drizzle caramel sauce over the pie and sprinkle with sea salt.
- Serve chilled.
Notes
- Use store-bought or homemade caramel sauce.
- Let the pie sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Dessert