Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

French Silk Pie Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.3 from 80 reviews

  • Author: Ava
  • Total Time: 8 hours 40 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Description

This classic French Silk Pie is a luscious, silky chocolate dessert made with rich bittersweet chocolate, whipped cream, and a buttery baked pie shell. The filling is a smooth blend of eggs, sugar, espresso powder, and butter, gently cooked over a double boiler for a velvety texture. Topped with a light, creamy mixture of whipped cream, Greek yogurt, and powdered sugar, and finished with optional chocolate curls, this pie is sure to impress with its deep chocolate flavor and elegant presentation.


Ingredients

Pie Filling

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 8 oz bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped
  • ½ tsp espresso powder
  • 12 tbsp (1 ½ sticks) unsalted butter
  • 2 tsp brandy or vanilla extract
  • 1 9-inch baked pie shell

Topping

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp Greek yogurt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3 tbsp powdered sugar
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (to create chocolate curls for garnish, optional)


Instructions

  1. Whip the Cream: Whisk 1 cup of heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Once whipped, set aside in the refrigerator to keep chilled.
  2. Prepare Chocolate Mixture: In a heat-proof glass bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 1 tsp kosher salt. Place the bowl atop a saucepan with simmering water, making sure the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Whisk continuously for 6-8 minutes until the egg mixture reaches 160°F. Remove from heat, add 8 oz finely chopped bittersweet chocolate and ½ tsp espresso powder, whisking until smooth and fully incorporated. Allow to cool to room temperature.
  3. Mix Butter and Chocolate: Using a handheld or stand mixer, beat 12 tbsp unsalted butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the cooled chocolate mixture and 2 tsp brandy or vanilla extract, beating for 3-4 minutes until well combined.
  4. Combine with Whipped Cream: Fold the chilled whipped cream into the chocolate-butter mixture gently until no streaks remain, maintaining a smooth and light texture.
  5. Fill the Pie Shell and Chill: Pour the filling into the pre-baked 9-inch pie shell. Refrigerate for 6-8 hours or up to 2 days to allow the pie to set fully.
  6. Prepare the Topping: In a stand mixer bowl fitted with a whisk attachment, combine 1 cup heavy cream, 2 tbsp Greek yogurt, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 3 tbsp powdered sugar. Whisk until stiff peaks form, approximately 3-4 minutes.
  7. Assemble the Pie: Dollop the whipped topping evenly over the chilled pie. Optionally, garnish with chocolate curls made from 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips to add decorative flair.

Notes

  • Ensure the egg mixture reaches 160°F to safely cook the eggs without scrambling.
  • The espresso powder enhances the chocolate flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.
  • Use a pre-baked pie shell for best results to prevent sogginess.
  • The pie needs several hours to fully set in the refrigerator, so plan ahead.
  • Chocolate curls can be made by melting the chips briefly, spreading thinly on parchment, chilling, and then scraping with a knife.
  • Brandy can be substituted with vanilla extract for a milder flavor.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: French-American