Chocolate Cream Pie Bars

For those who believe in the power of chocolate to turn a regular day into an extraordinary one, this recipe for Chocolate Cream Pie Bars is nothing short of a celebration. Crafted with layers of crunchy chocolate crust, velvety cream filling, and a light whipped topping, these bars are a perfect treat for any occasion. Let’s dive into the decadence with this detailed recipe guide.

Ingredients

For Chocolate Cookie Crust:

• 2 cups Oreo cookie crumbs
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For Chocolate Cream Filling:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 5 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate bar)
• 4 tablespoons (57 g) unsalted butter
• 6 ounces full-fat cream cheese, at room temperature
• 1 1/2 cups (180 g) powdered sugar, sifted
• 1/3 cup (35 g) unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted (Hershey’s Special Dark recommended)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For Whipped Cream Topping:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Shaved chocolate for topping (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Chocolate Cookie Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting it overhang for easy removal.
2. Pulse approximately 20 Oreo cookies (filling removed) to fine crumbs. Combine with melted butter and press evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes and let cool.

Step 2: Chocolate Cream Filling

1. Over a double boiler, melt the butter and chocolate together, then allow it to cool slightly.
2. In a separate bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until firm peaks form.
3. In another bowl, mix cream cheese, 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
4. Gently fold the melted chocolate mixture into the cream cheese mixture, and then carefully fold in the whipped cream.
5. Spread this filling over the cooled crust and chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or overnight.

Step 3: Whipped Cream Topping

1. Whip the remaining cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract to firm peaks.
2. Spread this whipped cream over the chilled filling. Garnish with chocolate shavings if desired.
3. Chill the bars for an additional 30 minutes before slicing. Use a clean, sharp knife, wiping between cuts to ensure clean slices.

Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 4 hours and 35 minutes
• Calories: 510 per serving
• Servings: 9 bars

These Chocolate Cream Pie Bars blend the irresistible textures of crunchy, creamy, and fluffy layers, making them a luxurious dessert that’s bound to please any crowd. Whether for a festive occasion or a cozy night in, these pie bars promise a chocolate experience that is both gratifying and memorable. Enjoy crafting this delightful dessert!