Brownie Bottom Chocolate Pudding Pie with Whipped Cream and Chocolate Curls Recipe

If you love chocolate desserts that feel like a warm hug on a chilly day, then the Brownie Bottom Chocolate Pudding Pie with Whipped Cream and Chocolate Curls Recipe is about to become your new go-to indulgence. This dessert marries the fudgy richness of a brownie crust with silky homemade chocolate pudding, topped with fluffy whipped cream and decadent chocolate curls that add a touch of elegance. Each bite delivers layers of texture and flavor that keep you coming back for more, making it a perfect centerpiece for any celebration or a cozy night in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The collage shows eight steps of making a chocolate mixture. In the first image, a clear glass bowl sits on a stove with a brown powder mixed inside and white liquid being poured in from the left, while a woman’s hand holds a whisk above it. The second image shows the same bowl with the brown mixture and a woman’s hand holding a small white bowl pouring yellow liquid into it. The third image shows a silver pot on a stove with white liquid and a large scoop of brown sugar added in the center. The fourth image shows the same pot now filled with a smooth light brown liquid. The fifth image shows the woman’s hand pouring the light brown liquid from the pot back into the clear glass bowl with the brown powder. The sixth image shows the woman’s hand pouring the mixed contents from the glass bowl back into the silver pot on the stove. The seventh image shows the silver pot with a smooth chocolate mixture being whisked by a woman’s hand. The eighth image shows the pot again with dark chocolate chips added and a woman’s hand stirring with the whisk. The background surface is white marble. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Brownie Bottom Chocolate Pudding Pie with Whipped Cream and Chocolate Curls Recipe calls for ingredients that are simple but absolutely essential for capturing the perfect balance of richness, creaminess, and sweetness. From the bittersweet and semi-sweet chocolate to the velvety heavy cream and fresh eggs, each element plays a vital role in building those irresistible layers.

  • Bittersweet chocolate (4 ounces): Provides deep chocolate flavor and a smooth texture for the pudding.
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder (3 tablespoons): Adds intense chocolate color and enhances the richness of the pudding.
  • Corn starch (3 tablespoons): Thickens the pudding to that perfect creamy consistency.
  • Salt (¼ teaspoon plus ⅛ teaspoon): Balances sweetness and intensifies chocolate flavor.
  • Heavy cream (1 cup + 1 cup for whipped cream): Vital for luscious pudding and fluffy whipped topping.
  • Egg yolks (3 for pudding, 2 eggs for crust): Provide richness and structure to pudding and brownie crust.
  • Milk (2 ½ cups 2% or whole): Adds creaminess to the pudding base.
  • Brown sugar (½ cup): Offers a warm, caramel undertone that complements the chocolate beautifully.
  • Vanilla extract (1 ½ teaspoons + ½ teaspoon): Lifts and rounds out the flavors.
  • Semi-sweet chocolate (4 ounces plus 1 square): Melts into the crust and is used for gorgeous chocolate curls garnish.
  • Salted butter (4 tablespoons): Creates a tender and flavorful brownie crust.
  • Sugar (¾ cup for crust): Sweetens and adds moisture to the brownie base.
  • All-purpose flour (½ cup): Gives structure and lets the crust hold its shape perfectly.
  • Confectioners sugar (2 tablespoons): Sweetens the whipped cream without graininess.

How to Make Brownie Bottom Chocolate Pudding Pie with Whipped Cream and Chocolate Curls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Pudding

Start by chopping your bittersweet chocolate into fine flakes for smooth melting. In a heat-proof bowl, whisk the cocoa powder, corn starch, and salt together before gradually adding heavy cream and egg yolks—this early combination ensures a silky pudding. Warm the milk with brown sugar until it just simmers, then temper the eggs by slowly whisking in the hot milk. Return the mixture to the pot and cook with constant whisking until the pudding thickens into a luscious, smooth texture. Stir in vanilla and chopped chocolate, then spread into a shallow pan, cover with wax paper to prevent skin, and refrigerate for at least three hours to chill thoroughly.

Step 2: Bake the Brownie Crust

While the pudding chills, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and prepare a 9-inch pie dish with butter or cooking spray. Melt semi-sweet chocolate and salted butter together gently, then whisk in sugar, salt, eggs, and vanilla until smooth. Fold in the flour carefully to retain fudgy texture. Pour this decadent brownie batter into the pie dish and bake for approximately 20 minutes. The goal here is fudgy crumbs on your toothpick tester rather than a dry crust, giving you a base that’s moist, chocolatey, and perfect for holding that pudding layer.

Step 3: Whip the Cream

Chill a mixing bowl, then beat the heavy cream with confectioners sugar until you start spotting stiffer peaks. Add vanilla and continue whipping until the cream holds firm peaks but still feels light and fluffy. Store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

Once your brownie crust is cool and your pudding is chilled, carefully spread the creamy pudding over the brownie base in an even layer. Then gently dollop or pipe the whipped cream on top, creating cloud-like swirls that invite everyone to dig in. For the finishing touch, use a vegetable peeler on a square of semi-sweet chocolate to create gorgeous chocolate curls that sprinkle across the top and add a touch of elegance and texture to this already irresistible dessert.

How to Serve Brownie Bottom Chocolate Pudding Pie with Whipped Cream and Chocolate Curls Recipe

A round dessert with three visible layers sits on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is dark brown and looks dense, the middle layer is a creamy light brown, and the top layer is thick white whipped cream with brown chocolate shavings scattered evenly across. It is served in a silver pie tin placed on a dark brown decorative tray. To the right, a silver pie server lies on the tray, and in the background, there is a stack of white plates with silver forks resting on them, and a blue and white striped cloth nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Chocolate curls are the star garnish here, but feel free to get creative! A light dusting of cocoa powder, a few fresh raspberries, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce can elevate the pie’s presentation. These small additions highlight the layers and add exciting flavor contrasts that guests will love.

Side Dishes

This decadent pie pairs beautifully with a simple scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a refreshing fruit salad. The creamy cold ice cream balances the deep chocolate richness, while the bright fruit offers a palate-cleansing twist that makes each bite feel like the first.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving this dessert at a party or special occasion, consider dividing it into individual clear glass jars or mini pie tins topped with whipped cream and curls. Not only does this make for gorgeous plating, but it also adds a personal touch that will wow your guests and make serving effortless.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After you’ve enjoyed your pie, refrigerate any leftovers covered with a loosely domed lid or plastic wrap to avoid crushing the whipped topping. The pie will stay fresh for up to three days, maintaining its perfect balance of creamy pudding and fudgy crust.

Freezing

This particular pie does not freeze well because the texture of the pudding and whipped cream can degrade after thawing. To keep the most decadent experience, enjoy it fresh within a few days.

Reheating

Since this is a chilled dessert, reheating is not recommended. It is best served cold to preserve the integrity of the pudding and the lightness of the whipped cream. Just take it out of the fridge about 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly for the best flavor reveal.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pudding instead of homemade?

Yes! If you’re short on time, two boxes of instant chocolate pudding can substitute nicely. However, homemade pudding has a richer, more luxurious texture and flavor that really shines in this recipe.

What if I don’t have a pie dish?

A round cake pan or springform pan can work as substitutes. Just keep in mind the depth—you want the brownie crust to be substantial enough to hold the pudding well.

How do I prevent the pudding from forming skin while chilling?

Pressing wax paper directly onto the surface of the pudding right after cooking is key. This seals out air and stops that annoying pudding skin from developing.

Can I make the pie ahead of time for a party?

Absolutely! Make the pudding and brownie crust a day in advance, then assemble and garnish the day of the event for the freshest presentation. Just be sure to give it at least an hour to set in the fridge after assembling.

Are there alternative garnishes I can use?

Of course! Try shaved white chocolate for contrast, a sprinkle of toasted nuts for crunch, or fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and brightness.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with the Brownie Bottom Chocolate Pudding Pie with Whipped Cream and Chocolate Curls Recipe—it’s a classic with a twist that delivers big on every level. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or impressing friends at your next get-together, this pie will become an instant favorite. I can’t wait for you to whip it up and enjoy every decadent bite!

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Brownie Bottom Chocolate Pudding Pie with Whipped Cream and Chocolate Curls Recipe

Brownie Bottom Chocolate Pudding Pie with Whipped Cream and Chocolate Curls Recipe


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3.9 from 64 reviews

  • Author: Patricia
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Description

This rich and indulgent Brownie Bottom Chocolate Pudding Pie features a fudgy brownie crust topped with homemade creamy chocolate pudding and a cloud of whipped cream. Finished with elegant chocolate curls, this classic American dessert is perfect for special occasions or satisfying chocolate cravings with a layered texture and deep chocolate flavor.


Ingredients

Chocolate Pudding from Scratch

  • 4 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped finely
  • 3 Tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 3 Tablespoons cornstarch
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 egg yolks (extra large)
  • 2 ½ cups 2% milk (or whole milk)
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract

Brownie Crust

  • 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate
  • 4 Tablespoons salted butter
  • ¾ cup sugar
  • ⅛ teaspoon salt
  • 2 eggs (extra large)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour

Whipped Cream

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 Tablespoons confectioners sugar
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Garnish

  • 1 square semi-sweet chocolate (for curls)


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chocolate Pudding: Chop the bittersweet chocolate finely with a serrated knife. In a large heatproof bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add the heavy cream, whisking until smooth. Whisk in the egg yolks thoroughly.
  2. Heat the Milk Mixture: In a 3-quart saucepan, combine milk and brown sugar, warming over medium heat until it reaches a simmer with tiny bubbles on the surface.
  3. Temper the Eggs: Slowly pour most of the hot milk mixture into the cocoa and cornstarch bowl, whisking continuously to blend and temper the eggs.
  4. Cook the Pudding: Return the mixture to the saucepan, increase heat to medium-high, and whisk constantly as it comes to a full boil and thickens. Cook while whisking vigorously for 2 minutes to ensure smooth texture.
  5. Finish Pudding: Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract and the chopped bittersweet chocolate until fully melted and incorporated.
  6. Chill the Pudding: Pour pudding evenly onto a sheet pan, cover with wax paper pressed directly onto the surface to prevent skin formation, and chill in the refrigerator for up to 3 hours (check after 1.5 hours for readiness).
  7. Prepare the Brownie Crust: Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9- or 10-inch pie dish. Microwave semi-sweet chocolate and butter for 1 minute and 50 seconds or until melted, stirring to combine.
  8. Mix Brownie Batter: Whisk in sugar, salt, eggs, and vanilla extract, then fold in the flour until just combined. Transfer batter into pie dish.
  9. Bake the Brownie Crust: Bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with fudgy crumbs. Cool completely on a wire rack.
  10. Make the Whipped Cream: Beat heavy cream and confectioners sugar with an electric mixer until soft peaks form halfway, then add vanilla extract and continue beating to stiff peaks. Refrigerate until assembly.
  11. Assemble the Pie: Once brownie crust is at room temperature, spread chilled pudding evenly over it, then top with whipped cream.
  12. Garnish: Use a vegetable peeler to create curls or flakes from the semi-sweet chocolate square, scatter over the whipped cream.
  13. Chill Pie Before Serving: Refrigerate assembled pie for at least 1 hour to set properly before serving. Store refrigerated covered for up to 3 days.

Notes

  • Chilling time for pudding is not included in prep time; it can be chilled for 3 hours or checked after 90 minutes for quicker readiness.
  • Pressing wax paper directly on pudding’s surface helps prevent skin formation during chilling.
  • Chill the assembled pie for at least 1 hour before serving to allow it to set firmly.
  • Store pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, always covered to protect the whipped cream topping.
  • Freezing is not recommended as it affects texture.
  • For convenience, two 3.9-oz boxes of instant chocolate pudding can be used instead of homemade pudding.
  • Prep Time: 23 minutes
  • Cook Time: 57 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

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