French Silk Slab Pie is an indulgent dessert that marries the rich, velvety texture of French silk pie with the convenience of a slab pie, perfect for serving a crowd. This recipe transforms the classic French silk pie into a larger format, making it ideal for gatherings and celebrations. The pie features a buttery, flaky crust filled with a luscious chocolate filling, topped with fluffy whipped cream and garnished with chocolate shavings. The first time I made this pie was for a family reunion, and it was an instant hit. The combination of deep chocolate flavor and light, airy cream made it irresistible. This recipe is sure to become a favorite for any special occasion, combining elegance and ease in one delicious package.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
2 9-inch pie crusts, softened
For the Filling:
10 oz bittersweet chocolate, plus more for topping
4 eggs
1 1/3 cups granulated sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
2 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
1/3 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a half sheet pan (approximately 18×13 inches) with nonstick spray and set aside.
Roll Out the Crusts:
On a lightly floured surface, stack the two softened pie crusts on top of each other.
Roll out the crusts into a rectangle that is slightly larger than your baking pan to ensure it fits well and has some overhang.
Fit the Crust into the Pan:
Carefully place the rolled-out crust into the prepared baking pan.
Press the crust into the corners and up the sides of the pan.
Trim any excess dough from the edges and crimp the edges to create a decorative border.
Blind Bake the Crust:
Line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans to prevent it from puffing up during baking.
Bake the crust in the preheated oven until it is slightly golden, about 15-17 minutes.
Remove the crust from the oven and let it cool completely before adding the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
Melt the Chocolate:
In a microwave-safe container, melt the 10 oz of bittersweet chocolate in 30-second increments, stirring in between each interval until the chocolate is nearly melted.
Continue stirring until the chocolate is completely smooth and melted. Set aside to cool slightly.
Cook the Eggs and Sugar:
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the 1 1/3 cups of granulated sugar and the 4 eggs.
Place the saucepan over low heat and stir constantly until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture coats the back of a spoon, about 5 minutes.
Combine with Chocolate and Vanilla:
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the melted chocolate and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
Allow the mixture to cool until it is warm, stirring occasionally to maintain a smooth consistency.
Beat the Butter:
In a mixing bowl, beat the 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter until it is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Gradually pour the chocolate mixture into the butter, beating on high speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 5 minutes. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Whipped Cream
Whip the Cream:
In a separate bowl, beat the 2 1/2 cups of heavy whipping cream with an electric mixer until it starts to thicken.
Add the 1/3 cup of powdered sugar and continue to beat until stiff peaks form.
Fold in Whipped Cream:
Gently fold 1 1/2 cups of the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture to lighten it.
Reserve the remaining whipped cream for topping the pie.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Fill the Crust:
Spread the chocolate mixture evenly into the cooled pie crust.
Chill the pie in the refrigerator until the filling is set, about 1-2 hours.
Top with Whipped Cream:
Once the filling is set, spread the reserved whipped cream over the top of the pie.
For an elegant touch, garnish with chocolate shavings or curls made from additional bittersweet chocolate.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve:
Slice the French Silk Slab Pie into squares and serve immediately.
This pie can be enjoyed as is or paired with fresh berries for an extra layer of flavor.
Variations and Substitutions
Crust Alternatives:
Use a graham cracker crust or a chocolate cookie crust for a different flavor and texture.
Flavor Enhancements:
Add a tablespoon of coffee liqueur or espresso powder to the filling for a mocha twist.
Top the pie with caramel sauce and a sprinkle of sea salt for a salted caramel version.
Dairy-Free Version:
Substitute the butter and heavy whipping cream with dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream and vegan butter.
Conclusion
French Silk Slab Pie is a show-stopping dessert that combines the creamy, luxurious texture of French silk pie with the practicality of a slab pie, making it perfect for serving a crowd. The rich chocolate filling, paired with the light and airy whipped cream, creates a decadent treat that is sure to impress your guests. This recipe is straightforward to follow and can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge in a delicious dessert, French Silk Slab Pie is a fantastic choice. Enjoy the process of making this elegant pie and savor every bite of its deliciousness.
