If you’re looking to impress friends or indulge your own sweet tooth, this Chocolate Hazelnut Chess Pie Recipe is the ultimate treat. It combines the classic Southern charm of chess pie with the irresistible richness of chocolate hazelnut spread, creating a silky, nutty custard filling nestled inside a flaky, buttery crust. Every bite melts in your mouth and offers a perfectly balanced sweetness that feels both nostalgic and wonderfully decadent. Trust me, once you try this pie, it’s going to become one of your all-time favorite desserts to make and share.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a single-layer pie with a golden-brown crust that is fluted around the edges, holding a smooth, dark brown filling that appears firm and even. The pie sits in a white pie dish on a white marbled surface. Behind the pie, there is a glass jar filled with a chocolate spread and a small bowl with chopped nuts, both slightly out of focus, giving a cozy kitchen feel. The overall look is simple and homey, with warm colors and soft lighting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Chocolate Hazelnut Chess Pie Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is straightforward yet essential, working together to build that smooth texture, deep flavor, and gorgeous golden color that defines a great chess pie.

Homemade pie crust (or store-bought): A flaky, buttery foundation is key here, whether you make it yourself or choose the convenience of a good store option.
1 3/4 cups (362g) sugar: Sweetness that caramelizes slightly for richness and balance.
3 tbsp (24g) all-purpose flour: Helps the filling set just right without becoming too dense.
6 tbsp (84g) unsalted butter, melted: Adds creaminess and depth to the custard.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Heightens the flavors and adds a warm, aromatic note.
2 large eggs, room temperature: The structure and silky smoothness of this pie depend on using eggs at the right temperature.
1 large egg yolk, room temperature: Adds extra richness and lushness to the filling.
6 tbsp (120g) hazelnut chocolate spread (such as Nutella): The star ingredient that brings nutty chocolate magic to the pie.
3/4 cup (120ml) whole milk, room temperature: Helps create that custard-like texture that’s smooth and luscious.

How to Make Chocolate Hazelnut Chess Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

Start by either rolling out your homemade pie crust or preparing your store-bought crust. Spray a 9-inch deep dish pie pan with non-stick spray, then press the crust evenly into it, shaping it beautifully to fit. Dock the crust using a fork to prevent bubbles and ensure even baking. Refrigerate for 2-3 hours or freeze for about an hour; a cold crust helps maintain flakiness and stops shrinking during baking.

Step 2: Preheat and Combine Dry Ingredients

Before getting into mixing, preheat your oven to 425°F. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar and flour. These dry ingredients provide the sweet structure that keeps your filling firm but silky. Once combined, add the melted butter and vanilla extract. Stir gently to blend but avoid over mixing to keep the filling smooth and dense.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Chocolate Hazelnut Spread

Gently add the two whole eggs and the extra yolk to the mixture, stirring carefully. Eggs are the life of this pie, binding everything and creating that dreamy custard texture. Next, fold in the hazelnut chocolate spread. It melts into the mixture, infusing every bite with creamy chocolate and nutty richness that defines this recipe.

Step 4: Mix in the Milk Slowly

Add half of the whole milk first, stirring gently so everything combines smoothly and without lumps. Then add the rest of the milk, continuing to fold the ingredients together with care so the texture remains silky. Adding the milk in two parts is a small but essential step to maintaining the perfect consistency for your filling.

Step 5: Bake the Pie

Pour your luscious filling into the cold pie crust. Bake at 425°F for 10 minutes to give the filling a head start. Then reduce the oven temperature to 325°F, and bake for an additional 35-45 minutes. Keep an eye on the crust; if it browns too quickly, pop on a pie crust shield to prevent burning while the filling cooks through uniformly.

Step 6: Cool and Chill

Once baked, carefully transfer your pie to a wire rack and let it cool at room temperature for 1-2 hours. This resting period allows the custard to set beautifully. Then, cover and refrigerate for 3-4 hours to chill completely. This step enhances the pie’s texture and makes it easier to slice for serving.

How to Serve Chocolate Hazelnut Chess Pie Recipe

A white pie dish holds one pie with two layers: the bottom layer is a pale yellow pie crust with a ruffled edge that goes around the dish; the top layer is smooth chocolate filling with a rich dark brown color that has a few gentle swirled patterns on the surface. The dish sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch, or try topping with a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For extra decadence, sprinkle chopped toasted hazelnuts on top—they add a lovely crunch and deepen the nutty flavor.

Side Dishes

This pie pairs wonderfully with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The freshness of fruit cuts through the richness of the pie while the creaminess of ice cream offers a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual slices with a drizzle of warm chocolate or caramel sauce. For a festive look, add a few edible flowers or mint leaves. Consider plating with a side of espresso or rich hot chocolate for the ultimate indulgence experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. The pie stays fresh for 4-5 days, allowing you to enjoy its deliciousness even after a few days have passed.

Freezing

You can freeze this pie, fully wrapped in plastic and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to preserve the texture and rich flavors.

Reheating

If you prefer your pie slightly warm, reheat individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a low oven (300°F) for about 10 minutes. This way, the filling becomes just soft and luscious again without overcooking.

FAQs

What makes this Chocolate Hazelnut Chess Pie Recipe different from a regular chess pie?

This version adds hazelnut chocolate spread, giving a unique nutty-chocolate twist to the classic sweet custard filling, making it richer and more decadent.

Can I use a store-bought pie crust instead of homemade?

Absolutely! A good-quality store-bought crust works well and saves time, especially if you’re new to pie baking or short on time.

Why should the ingredients be at room temperature?

Room temperature eggs and milk ensure a smooth and even custard without lumps or curdling. It also helps with even baking and texture.

How can I avoid a soggy pie crust?

Chilling the crust thoroughly before adding the filling and using techniques like docking the crust help maintain a crisp and flaky bottom.

Is it okay to use a different chocolate spread?

Yes, you can swap hazelnut chocolate spread for other creamy, nut-based chocolate spreads, but hazelnut adds the signature nutty flavor that really makes this recipe shine.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Hazelnut Chess Pie Recipe is pure comfort on a plate, perfect for any occasion where you want to wow guests or treat yourself. It’s approachable to make, yet delivers such a show-stopping flavor and texture that it quickly becomes a beloved classic. Don’t hesitate to dive in and start baking—you’re going to love every bite!