Mexican Chocolate Pie

Mexican chocolate pie is a luxurious, bold dessert that blends warm spices with rich, velvety chocolate for a flavor that’s complex yet deeply comforting. This pie features a sugar cookie crust that’s tender and buttery, offering a perfect base for the decadent filling. The filling itself is made with a blend of heavy cream, warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, a subtle kick from cayenne, and rich Mexican chocolate or a mix of dark and milk chocolate. The result is a pie that feels both familiar and intriguing—a modern take on a classic chocolate dessert with roots in traditional Mexican flavors.

Mexican chocolate, known for its grainy texture and notes of cinnamon and spice, gives this pie its signature depth. The silky filling contrasts beautifully with the crisp sugar cookie crust, making each bite balanced and satisfying. Whether served at a dinner party, holiday celebration, or simply as a weekend indulgence, this pie stands out for its unique flavor profile. It’s elegant enough for entertaining but simple enough to make with basic ingredients. If you’re a fan of chocolate desserts and ready to explore something with a little more character, this pie will quickly become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Unique flavor profile

Warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cayenne add complexity to the deep chocolate filling.

Rich, creamy texture

The heavy cream and melted chocolate create a luscious, smooth filling that’s luxurious without being overly heavy.

Sugar cookie crust

Buttery, tender, and slightly sweet, the sugar cookie crust complements the bold filling perfectly.

Perfect for entertaining

This pie makes a stunning presentation and delivers sophisticated flavors that impress guests.

Adaptable to your taste

You can adjust the level of spice or use different types of chocolate to make the flavor bolder or milder.

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Ingredients

Sugar Cookie Pie Crust

All-purpose flour
Icing sugar
Salt
Cold butter, cut into pieces
Egg yolk

Mexican Chocolate Filling

Heavy cream
Cinnamon sticks or ground cinnamon
Nutmeg
Cayenne powder
Sugar
Mexican chocolate or a combination of dark and milk chocolate, finely chopped

Variations

• Crust alternatives: Use a graham cracker or chocolate cookie crust for a quicker option.
• Spice it up: Increase the cayenne for more heat, or add cloves for extra depth.
• Make it boozy: Add a tablespoon of coffee liqueur or spiced rum to the filling.
• Top it off: Serve with whipped cream, cinnamon-dusted cream, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder.
• Use different chocolates: Play with different ratios of dark and milk chocolate for the flavor you prefer.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Prepare the sugar cookie crust: In a bowl, mix the flour, icing sugar, and salt. Add cold butter and cut it in using a pastry cutter or your hands until it resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 2

Add the egg yolk and mix until the dough begins to come together. Press into a disc, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.

Step 3

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled dough and press it into a pie pan. Prick the base with a fork.

Step 4

Blind bake the crust with pie weights for 15 minutes. Remove weights and bake another 5–7 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool.

Step 5

To make the filling, heat the heavy cream in a saucepan with the cinnamon sticks, nutmeg, cayenne, and sugar until it just begins to simmer.

Step 6

Remove the cinnamon sticks (if using whole), and pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate in a bowl. Let sit for 2–3 minutes.

Step 7

Whisk the mixture until smooth and glossy. Let it cool slightly before pouring into the prepared crust.

Step 8

Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set. Slice and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use cold butter for the crust to ensure flakiness.
• Chill the crust before baking to prevent shrinkage.
• Let the cream steep with spices for more pronounced flavor.
• Finely chop the chocolate so it melts evenly.
• Cool the filling slightly before pouring to prevent cracking.

How to Serve

Serve this pie chilled or slightly closer to room temperature for the best texture. Top each slice with lightly sweetened whipped cream or a dusting of cocoa powder. It pairs beautifully with a cup of espresso, coffee, or even a small glass of dessert wine. For a festive touch, sprinkle a little cinnamon or shaved chocolate over the top before serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The filling stays firm and flavorful.

Freezing

The pie can be frozen whole or in slices. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

This pie is best served cold or at room temperature, but if you prefer it warm, gently heat slices in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds. Be cautious not to melt the filling.

FAQs

Can I use a pre-made crust?

Yes, a store-bought cookie or graham crust can work if you’re short on time.

What is Mexican chocolate?

Mexican chocolate is typically a blend of cacao, sugar, and cinnamon. Brands like Ibarra or Abuelita are common.

Can I use regular chocolate instead of Mexican chocolate?

Yes, use a mix of dark and milk chocolate and add cinnamon and a pinch of cayenne to mimic the flavor.

Is this pie very spicy?

No, the cayenne adds warmth rather than heat, but you can adjust to your taste.

How do I know when the filling is set?

The filling should be firm to the touch but slightly jiggly in the center—it will fully set after refrigeration.

Can I make this pie dairy-free?

Yes, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and dairy-free chocolate for a non-dairy version.

Can I use ground cinnamon instead of sticks?

Yes, use about 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon in place of the sticks.

Do I need to bake the filling?

No, the filling sets through refrigeration after being heated and combined.

How long does the pie need to chill?

At least 4 hours, but overnight is best for a fully set and sliceable pie.

Can I add toppings before chilling?

It’s best to add toppings like whipped cream or garnish just before serving to keep them fresh.

Conclusion

Mexican chocolate pie is a bold, elegant dessert that brings together the comforting richness of chocolate with the subtle heat of spices. Its smooth, creamy filling nestled inside a tender sugar cookie crust creates a memorable contrast of textures and flavors. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply satisfying a chocolate craving, this pie offers something uniquely satisfying. With its beautiful presentation and unforgettable taste, it’s sure to become a standout favorite in your dessert repertoire.

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