French Silk Pie with Graham Cracker Crust

Indulge in the ultimate French Silk Pie with a buttery graham cracker crust, velvety chocolate filling, and fluffy whipped cream topping. This no-bake chocolate dessert (except for the crust) is a show-stopping favorite for holidays, birthdays, and special occasions. Learn how to create perfect chocolate curls for an elegant touch and discover tips for making the silkiest, most decadent pie. Whether you’re hosting a party or satisfying your chocolate cravings, this easy homemade French Silk Pie recipe is guaranteed to impress. Make-ahead friendly and irresistibly delicious!

Ingredients

For the graham cracker crust:

• 2 ¼ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup butter, melted

For the chocolate layer:

• 2 oz unsweetened baking chocolate
• ½ cup butter, softened to room temperature
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 eggs (farm fresh or pasteurized), at room temperature

For the whipped cream layer:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy cream, chilled

For the chocolate curls:

• ⅓ cup chocolate chips
• 1 tsp shortening

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a glass pie pan or round cake pan with butter or nonstick spray.
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until evenly moistened.
   • Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of the prepared pan to form a crust.
   • Bake for 10 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow the crust to cool completely, then refrigerate to set.
2. Make the Chocolate Layer
   • Melt the unsweetened baking chocolate in the microwave, stirring every 15-20 seconds until smooth. Set aside to cool to room temperature.
   • In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter until smooth. Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, beating until light and fluffy.
   • Mix in the cooled melted chocolate until fully incorporated.
   • Add the eggs one at a time, beating each for 5 minutes to create a fluffy, airy texture. Spread the chocolate filling evenly over the cooled crust and refrigerate.
3. Prepare the Whipped Cream Layer
   • In a clean bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
   • Gradually add ½ cup of chilled heavy cream, beating until smooth. Then add the remaining ½ cup of heavy cream and beat until stiff peaks form.
   • Spread the whipped cream layer over the chocolate filling and refrigerate until firm.
4. Make the Chocolate Curls
   • Melt the chocolate chips and shortening in the microwave, stirring until smooth. Spread the melted chocolate in a thin layer on the back of a baking sheet.
   • Refrigerate for 10-15 minutes or until the chocolate is firm but not brittle.
   • Use a metal spatula or knife to gently scrape the chocolate into curls. Decorate the pie with these curls.
5. Serve and Enjoy
   • Slice the pie and serve chilled.

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Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth texture.
• Chocolate Curls: If the chocolate becomes too hard to curl, let it sit at room temperature for a minute before trying again.
• Fluffy Filling: Beating the eggs for the full 5 minutes is crucial for achieving the signature light and silky texture of French silk pie.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Crust Options: Swap the graham cracker crust for a chocolate cookie crust or traditional pastry crust.
• Dark Chocolate: Use dark chocolate instead of unsweetened chocolate for a slightly sweeter, richer filling.
• Nut-Free Version: Substitute shortening for nut-free margarine to ensure the pie is nut allergy-friendly.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and whipped topping for a lactose-free version.

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FAQs

Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes! French silk pie can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Are raw eggs safe to use?
If you’re concerned, use pasteurized eggs to ensure safety while maintaining the pie’s texture.

How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

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Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a hot cup of coffee or espresso for a decadent dessert experience.
• Serve with a side of fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries for a fruity contrast.
• Top with a drizzle of caramel or additional chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Luxuriously Silky Texture: The creamy chocolate layer and fluffy whipped topping are pure indulgence.
• Easy No-Fuss Crust: The graham cracker crust is quick and simple to make, with no rolling required.
• Show-Stopping Presentation: Chocolate curls make it a visually stunning dessert for any occasion.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for prepping ahead for parties or holidays.

This French Silk Pie with Graham Cracker Crust is an irresistible treat that’s sure to become a favorite at your dessert table!