Chocolate Cream Pie Bars: The Ultimate Dessert Recipe

Name: Chocolate Cream Pie Bars
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Oreo cookie crumbs; 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted); 1 cup cold heavy whipping cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 5 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 6 ounces cream cheese (softened); 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup cold heavy whipping cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; Shaved chocolate for topping (optional)

Introduction to Chocolate Cream Pie Bars

Indulge in the rich, creamy goodness of Chocolate Cream Pie Bars, a delightful dessert that brings joy to every bite. Perfect for special occasions or simply as a treat for yourself, these bars offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures. With a crunchy Oreo cookie crust and a luscious chocolate filling, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

A Personal Story Behind My Chocolate Cream Pie Bars Journey

Growing up, my family often gathered around the table for dessert after dinner. One of my fondest memories is of my grandmother making her famous chocolate cream pie. The aroma of chocolate filled the air, and the anticipation was palpable. Over the years, I adapted her recipe into these easy-to-make Chocolate Cream Pie Bars, which capture that same nostalgia while being even more accessible for everyone to enjoy.

What Makes This Chocolate Cream Pie Bars Recipe Special?

What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity and the use of Oreo cookies for the crust, which adds a delightful crunch and rich flavor. The filling is a perfect balance of creamy and decadent chocolate, lightened with whipped cream for a smooth texture. Plus, these bars can be made ahead of time and chilled, making them ideal for gatherings or when you want to indulge without a lot of last-minute preparation.

The Full Chocolate Cream Pie Bars Recipe

Ingredients

For Chocolate Cookie Crust:

2 cups Oreo cookie crumbs
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For Chocolate Cream Filling:

1 cup cold heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
5 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
6 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt

For Whipped Cream Topping:

1 cup cold heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Shaved chocolate for topping (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
In a bowl, combine the Oreo cookie crumbs with the melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are well coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool completely.

In a double boiler, melt the chopped chocolate with 4 tablespoons of butter over simmering water. Stir until smooth, then remove from heat and set aside to cool for about 10 minutes.
While the chocolate mixture cools, whip 1 cup of cold heavy cream with 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until firm peaks form. Once done, refrigerate the whipped cream until ready to use.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup of powdered sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Add the cooled chocolate mixture to the cream cheese mixture. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth.
Gently fold in the whipped cream until no white streaks remain. This will create a light and airy filling.

Spread the chocolate filling evenly over the cooled cookie crust. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or overnight for best results.
Before serving, whip another cup of heavy cream with powdered sugar and a splash of vanilla until smooth and firm. Spread this whipped cream over the chocolate layer.
Top with chocolate shavings for an elegant finish. Chill for an additional 30 minutes before slicing into squares.

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Chocolate Cream Pie Bars

These Chocolate Cream Pie Bars can be enjoyed on their own, but they are also delightful when paired with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. For a fun twist, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a sweet and salty contrast. You can also substitute the heavy cream in the filling with Greek yogurt for a lighter option, or add a layer of peanut butter for a delicious chocolate-peanut butter combination.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chocolate Cream Pie Bars

Can I make these bars ahead of time? Yes! These bars are perfect for making in advance. Just make sure to allow enough time for chilling.

How should I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze Chocolate Cream Pie Bars? Yes, you can freeze these bars. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

What can I use instead of Oreos for the crust? If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free chocolate cookies. Alternatively, graham crackers also work well for the crust.

Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Cream Pie Bars, and don’t forget to share them with family and friends!