When it comes to indulgent desserts, few can match the appeal of a rich and creamy chocolate pie. This Hershey Pie – Easy No-Bake Chocolate Dessert is not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s also remarkably simple to prepare, making it a perfect fit for any occasion. The delightful combination of creamy fillings layered within a crisp Oreo or graham cracker crust brings together flavors and textures that are universally loved. If you’re a chocolate lover, this recipe will quickly become one of your go-to desserts.
The beauty of this Hershey Pie lies in its ease of preparation. You don’t need any baking skills to create a dessert that looks and tastes like it came from a gourmet kitchen. With just a few ingredients, including Hershey’s chocolate bars, cream cheese, and whipped topping, you can whip up a luscious dessert in no time. Plus, the no-bake aspect means that it’s ideal for warm-weather gatherings where you want to bring something sweet without heating up your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Hershey Pie
- Deliciously Decadent: The rich chocolate flavor from Hershey’s bars makes this pie a chocolate lover’s dream.
- No-Bake Convenience: Perfect for busy days or last-minute dessert needs.
- Effortless Mix: Simply melt, mix, and chill—no complicated steps!
- Customizable: Add your choice of toppings for a unique twist every time.
- Kid-Friendly: A dessert that kids can help with, making it a fun family activity.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you dive into making the Hershey Pie, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen workspace. Start by gathering all your ingredients, which include an Oreo or graham cracker pie crust, cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, whipped topping, and Hershey’s chocolate bars. You’ll also need measuring cups and spoons, mixing bowls, and a microwave or double boiler for melting the chocolate.
Make sure to have a spatula handy for folding ingredients and a pie dish ready for assembling your layers. If you have a food processor, you might find it useful for achieving a smooth cream cheese mixture. Ensure your ingredients are at the right temperatures: the cream cheese should be softened, while the whipped topping should be thawed. This preparation ensures a smooth mixing process, leading to a well-blended and creamy filling.
Ingredients
- 1 Oreo or graham cracker pie crust (ready-to-use)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 16 oz frozen whipped topping, thawed (divided)
- 6 Hershey’s milk chocolate bars (1.55 oz each), melted
- Optional: chocolate syrup and crushed graham crackers for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Melt the Chocolate
Begin by preparing your chocolate filling. Take the Hershey’s milk chocolate bars and chop them into smaller pieces for easier melting. You can either use a microwave or a double boiler for this process. If using a microwave, place the chopped chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl, then heat it in 30-second intervals. Stir the chocolate between each interval until it’s completely melted and smooth. This step is crucial as overcooking can lead to burnt chocolate. Once melted, let it cool slightly before proceeding.
Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Layer
In a separate mixing bowl, fold half of the thawed whipped topping into the melted chocolate. Using a spatula, gently combine them until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This will create a luscious chocolate layer that will serve as the base of your pie. Once this mixture achieves the desired consistency, spread it evenly into the bottom of your prepared pie crust, ensuring a smooth finish.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
Next, take another mixing bowl and beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the sifted confectioners’ sugar and the vanilla extract, mixing until completely combined. This step is important to avoid any lumps in your mixture. Gently fold in the remaining whipped topping, blending everything together just until combined. Careful folding will keep the light and airy texture of the whipped topping intact.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Now, take the cream cheese mixture and spread it over the chocolate layer in the pie crust. Make sure to smooth it evenly for a beautiful presentation. Finally, spread a light layer of the remaining whipped topping over the top for a stunning finish, making your pie not only delicious but visually appealing as well.
Step 5: Chill the Pie
Your delicious Hershey Pie now needs time to set. Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, though allowing it to chill overnight will help the flavors blend beautifully and improve the texture. This resting time is essential for achieving that beautiful slice when serving.
Variations
- Protein: Consider adding a layer of crunchy peanut butter or almond butter for a nutty twist.
- Vegetables: Top with fruits like sliced strawberries or banana for freshness and extra flavor.
- Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or coffee granules to the chocolate mixture for added depth and warmth.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is thoroughly softened to avoid lumps in your mixture.
- Be cautious while melting the chocolate to prevent overheating; use short intervals in the microwave.
- Allow the pie ample chilling time to set properly, as this affects the texture when slicing.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve slices of the pie with a drizzle of chocolate syrup for extra indulgence.
- Garnish with crushed graham crackers or chocolate shavings to enhance presentation.
Tips
- Use a pre-made crust for simplicity, but homemade crust can add a personal touch.
- Experiment with flavored whipped toppings, such as chocolate or strawberry, for a fun twist.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including chilling time)
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 350 per slice (1/8th of pie)
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 120mg
FAQs
Can I use reduced-fat cream cheese?
Yes, you can substitute reduced-fat cream cheese, but it may alter the texture slightly. It’s still a delicious option!
How long can I keep the Hershey Pie in the fridge?
You can store the pie in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, ideally covered to maintain freshness.
Can I freeze this pie?
Yes, this pie can be frozen! Just ensure it is wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
What if I don’t have whipped topping?
If you don’t have whipped topping, you can make homemade whipped cream using heavy whipping cream and sugar, whipping until soft peaks form.
Conclusion
This Hershey Pie – Easy No-Bake Chocolate Dessert is a delightful treat that perfectly balances rich chocolate with whipped cream’s light texture. The simplicity of this recipe makes it accessible to everyone, from novice bakers to seasoned chefs. With endless variations possible, you can easily make this dessert your own by incorporating your favorite flavors or toppings. Don’t hesitate to share your creations in the comments and spread the joy of this delectable pie with family and friends. Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or a casual gathering, this pie is sure to be the star of the dessert table!
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Hershey Pie – Easy No-Bake Chocolate Dessert
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Hershey Pie – Easy No-Bake Chocolate Dessert is a delightful treat that perfectly balances rich chocolate with whipped cream’s light texture.
Ingredients
- 1 Oreo or graham cracker pie crust (ready-to-use)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 16 oz frozen whipped topping, thawed (divided)
- 6 Hershey’s milk chocolate bars (1.55 oz each), melted
- Optional: chocolate syrup and crushed graham crackers for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your chocolate filling. Take the Hershey’s milk chocolate bars and chop them into smaller pieces for easier melting. You can either use a microwave or a double boiler for this process. If using a microwave, place the chopped chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl, then heat it in 30-second intervals. Stir the chocolate between each interval until it’s completely melted and smooth. This step is crucial as overcooking can lead to burnt chocolate. Once melted, let it cool slightly before proceeding.
- In a separate mixing bowl, fold half of the thawed whipped topping into the melted chocolate. Using a spatula, gently combine them until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This will create a luscious chocolate layer that will serve as the base of your pie. Once this mixture achieves the desired consistency, spread it evenly into the bottom of your prepared pie crust, ensuring a smooth finish.
- Next, take another mixing bowl and beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the sifted confectioners’ sugar and the vanilla extract, mixing until completely combined. This step is important to avoid any lumps in your mixture. Gently fold in the remaining whipped topping, blending everything together just until combined. Careful folding will keep the light and airy texture of the whipped topping intact.
- Now, take the cream cheese mixture and spread it over the chocolate layer in the pie crust. Make sure to smooth it evenly for a beautiful presentation. Finally, spread a light layer of the remaining whipped topping over the top for a stunning finish, making your pie not only delicious but visually appealing as well.
- Your delicious Hershey Pie now needs time to set. Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, though allowing it to chill overnight will help the flavors blend beautifully and improve the texture. This resting time is essential for achieving that beautiful slice when serving.
Notes
Use a pre-made crust for simplicity, but homemade crust can add a personal touch. Experiment with flavored whipped toppings, such as chocolate or strawberry, for a fun twist.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Protein: 3 g