Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect Flavor Combination: The refreshing mint filling complements the deep richness of chocolate.
- Simple to Make: No complicated techniques, just straightforward steps.
- Customizable: Add your favorite garnishes like whipped cream, chocolate curls, or fresh mint leaves.
- Make-Ahead Dessert: Prepare it a day in advance for less stress on the day of serving.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Chocolate Crust:
- Chocolate cookie crumbs (like Oreo, with filling removed)
- Unsalted butter
For the Mint Filling:
- Cream cheese
- Powdered sugar
- Heavy whipping cream
- Peppermint extract
- Green food coloring (optional)
For the Chocolate Ganache Topping:
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Heavy cream
Optional Toppings:
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings
- Fresh mint leaves
Directions
- Make the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter until combined.
- Press the mixture into a 9-inch pie pan, covering the bottom and sides.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes and let it cool completely.
- Prepare the Mint Filling
- Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form in a separate bowl.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.
- Add peppermint extract and green food coloring (if desired), mixing evenly.
- Spread the filling into the cooled crust and refrigerate for 2-3 hours.
- Make the Ganache Topping
- Combine chocolate chips and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Allow to cool slightly, then pour over the chilled mint filling.
- Garnish and Serve
- Chill the pie for 30-60 minutes to set the ganache.
- Garnish with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and fresh mint leaves before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8-10 slices
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 3-4 hours
- Total Time: Approximately 4 hours and 40 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate Cookie Alternatives: Use graham crackers or a store-bought chocolate crust for convenience.
- Extra Minty: Add finely crushed peppermint candies to the filling for a crunch.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and whipped topping substitutes.
- Different Extracts: Replace peppermint extract with vanilla or almond for a twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
- Reheating: Not applicable; this pie is best served chilled.
FAQs
1. Can I use a pre-made crust?
Yes, a store-bought chocolate crust works perfectly for this recipe.
2. Do I have to use green food coloring?
No, it’s optional and purely for aesthetic purposes.
3. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it a day in advance and keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.
4. What’s the best way to whip cream?
Use a chilled bowl and beaters for best results. Whip until stiff peaks form, but don’t overbeat.
5. Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Yes, but it will result in a sweeter ganache.
6. How do I prevent the crust from crumbling?
Press the crust mixture firmly into the pie pan to ensure it holds together.
7. Is there a substitute for peppermint extract?
You can use spearmint extract or another extract like vanilla, though the flavor will differ.
8. What should I do if the ganache is too thick?
Thin it with a tablespoon of warm cream until it reaches a pourable consistency.
9. Can I use a different type of cream cheese?
Reduced-fat cream cheese works, but the filling may be slightly less creamy.
10. How do I cut the pie cleanly?
Use a knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between slices for a neat cut.
Conclusion
This Chocolate Mint Pie is a stunning and delicious dessert that combines rich chocolate and refreshing mint in every bite. Whether for a special occasion or a sweet treat for your family, it’s sure to impress. Follow this simple recipe to create a show-stopping pie everyone will adore!
Chocolate Mint Pie Recipe
- Total Time: Approximately 4 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 slices
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A dreamy dessert blending chocolate and mint! This Chocolate Mint Pie features a creamy mint filling in a rich chocolate crust, topped with velvety ganache. A perfect make-ahead dessert for holidays, parties, or whenever you’re craving minty sweetness.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Crust:
- 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs (like Oreo, filling removed)
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Mint Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 ½ tsp peppermint extract
- Green food coloring (optional)
For the Chocolate Ganache Topping:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup heavy cream
Optional Toppings:
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings
- Fresh mint leaves
Instructions
1. Make the Crust
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter in a bowl.
- Press the mixture into a 9-inch pie pan, covering the bottom and sides evenly.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes. Let cool completely before filling.
2. Prepare the Mint Filling
- Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.
- Add peppermint extract and food coloring (if desired) and mix evenly.
- Spread the filling into the cooled crust. Refrigerate for 2-3 hours.
3. Make the Ganache Topping
- Heat chocolate chips and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Cool slightly, then pour over the chilled mint filling.
4. Garnish and Serve
- Chill for 30-60 minutes to set the ganache.
- Garnish with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and fresh mint leaves before serving.
Notes
- For a firmer crust, press the mixture firmly into the pan and ensure it’s evenly distributed.
- Adjust the peppermint extract to your taste preference.
- The green food coloring is optional and does not affect the flavor.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Chill Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-4 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American