Million Dollar Pie: A Recipe Worth the Hype
The "Million Dollar Pie" isn't just a name; it's a testament to its decadent, rich, and utterly irresistible flavor. This creamy, dreamy dessert is a showstopper, perfect for special occasions or when you simply want to treat yourself. Forget the million dollars – this recipe is priceless!
Understanding the Million Dollar Pie Magic
What makes this pie so special? It's the combination of a buttery, flaky crust, a luscious cream cheese filling, and a generous topping of chocolate ganache. Each element contributes to the overall symphony of flavors and textures that define this iconic dessert.
Key Ingredients: A Closer Look
- Crust: A classic buttery shortbread crust provides the perfect foundation. Don't skimp on the quality of your butter – it makes all the difference!
- Cream Cheese Filling: This is where the magic truly happens. Cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract combine to create a rich and creamy filling that’s both sweet and tangy.
- Chocolate Ganache: A decadent dark chocolate ganache poured over the cooled pie adds the final touch of richness and indulgence. The intensity of the chocolate complements the cream cheese perfectly.
The Million Dollar Pie Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
This recipe is designed for a 9-inch pie dish.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- ¼ cup ice water
For the Filling:
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Ganache:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
Instructions:
1. Make the Crust:
- Whisk together flour and salt.
- Cut in butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes.
- Roll out the dough and place it in a 9-inch pie plate.
- Trim and crimp the edges. Prick the bottom with a fork.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
2. Make the Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
3. Assemble and Bake the Pie:
- Pour the filling into the baked pie crust.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set.
- Let cool completely on a wire rack.
4. Make the Ganache:
- Heat heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
- Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for a few minutes.
- Whisk until smooth and glossy.
5. Finish the Pie:
- Pour the ganache over the cooled pie.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the ganache to set.
Tips for Million Dollar Pie Success
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the pie will taste.
- Don't overbake: Overbaking can result in a dry crust and filling.
- Chill thoroughly: Allowing the pie to chill completely ensures a firm, set filling and prevents a messy ganache.
- Get creative with toppings: While the classic chocolate ganache is amazing, feel free to experiment with other toppings, such as fresh berries or whipped cream.
Beyond the Recipe: Serving and Storage
This million-dollar pie is best served chilled. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This detailed guide ensures your Million Dollar Pie is a resounding success. Enjoy every delicious bite!
