Chocolate Cream Pie Bars

Name: Chocolate Cream Pie Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 4 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 2 cups heavy cream; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 4 large egg yolks; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder for garnish (optional)

Isabella

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Indulge your sweet tooth with these delightful Chocolate Cream Pie Bars. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a luscious chocolate filling, and a fluffy whipped topping, these bars are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a chocolate treat, this recipe is sure to impress chocolate lovers of all ages!

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the Chocolate Filling:

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

2 cups heavy cream

2 tablespoons cornstarch

¼ cup granulated sugar

4 large egg yolks

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

¼ teaspoon salt

For the Topping:

1 cup heavy whipping cream

2 tablespoons powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder for garnish (optional)

Directions:

Prepare the Crust:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until fully combined.

Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden. Allow to cool completely.

Make the Chocolate Filling:

In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it is just simmering.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, sugar, egg yolks, and salt.

Slowly pour the hot cream into the egg mixture while whisking constantly.

Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 5-7 minutes).

Remove from heat and stir in the chocolate chips and vanilla extract until smooth.

Pour the chocolate filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top.

Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.

Prepare the Whipped Topping:

In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

Spread the whipped cream evenly over the chilled chocolate filling.

Garnish and Serve:

Garnish with chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder if desired.

Cut into bars and serve chilled.

Serving Tips:

Chill Before Serving: Ensure the bars are well-chilled for at least 4 hours before serving. This helps the filling set properly and makes cutting easier.

Clean Cuts: Use a sharp knife to cut the bars into clean squares. For neater cuts, dip the knife in hot water and wipe it dry before slicing.

Garnish: Consider adding additional toppings just before serving, such as chocolate shavings, a dusting of cocoa powder, or fresh berries for a pop of color and flavor.

Pair with Beverages: These bars pair well with coffee, milk, or a glass of dessert wine, enhancing the chocolate experience.

Plate Presentation: Serve the bars on a decorative plate or platter. Consider using cupcake liners for individual servings, making them easy to grab and enjoy.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Store the Chocolate Cream Pie Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will keep them fresh for up to 3 days.

Cover Tightly: If you don’t have an airtight container, cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out and absorption of odors.

Freezing: If you want to store them for a longer period, you can freeze the bars. Cut them into individual pieces, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Thawing: To enjoy frozen bars, transfer them to the refrigerator for several hours or overnight to thaw. Avoid thawing at room temperature, as this can make the whipped topping lose its texture.

Serving from the Freezer: If you prefer, you can serve the bars slightly frozen for a unique texture. Just let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving.

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FAQs:

Can I make these Chocolate Cream Pie Bars gluten-free?

Yes, you can make these bars gluten-free by substituting the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham crackers or using a gluten-free cookie crust. Just ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

How can I make the chocolate filling dairy-free?

To make the chocolate filling dairy-free, you can substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut cream or almond milk. Additionally, use dairy-free chocolate chips to ensure the entire recipe is dairy-free.

How do I store leftover Chocolate Cream Pie Bars?

Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze individual pieces wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Can I use a different type of crust for these bars?

Absolutely! While the graham cracker crust is classic, you can experiment with other crust options, such as an Oreo cookie crust, digestive biscuit crust, or a homemade cookie crust. Just be sure to adjust the proportions accordingly if needed.

Conclusion:

These Chocolate Cream Pie Bars are a heavenly combination of flavors and textures that will satisfy any chocolate craving. With their easy preparation and impressive presentation, they’re sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation. Try making these delicious bars for your next gathering, and watch as they disappear in no time!