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There are days when nothing but a slice of something warm gooey and chocolatey will do. This gooey brownie pie fits that craving beautifully with its rich fudgy center and melty chocolate pockets all nestled inside a crisp edge. For birthdays cozy movie nights or late-night dessert emergencies this pie never lets me down.
The first time I baked this pie I was looking for a way to satisfy both brownie and pie lovers at my family table. Now it vanishes every time I serve it—my friends still talk about that irresistible fudgy middle and the way each slice melts into a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: brings moisture and makes every bite rich. I look for fresh creamy butter for the best results.
- Semi sweet chocolate chips: create the backbone of chocolate flavor. Use a good quality brand and check the chips are glossy with a deep brown color.
- Large eggs: bind the batter and provide that classic chewy brownie bite. Always select eggs with strong uncracked shells and bright yolks.
- Granulated sugar: gives sweetness and helps create the shiny crackly top everyone loves. Superfine sugar blends easily if you have it.
- Vanilla extract: rounds out the chocolate flavor and adds a subtle depth. Pure vanilla makes a noticeable difference.
- All purpose flour: is kept to a minimum so the pie stays dense and gooey. Choose a fresh bag for best results.
- Baking powder: gives just a gentle lift around the edges for pie-like softness.
- Salt: brightens the flavors making the chocolate pop. Fine sea salt works especially well.
- Hot fudge sauce (optional): but truly worth it for extra decadence. Choose a thick rich sauce for drizzling.
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan:
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit. Generously grease a nine inch pie plate or springform pan. Spread the butter into every edge or use a solid layer of nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- Melt Butter and Chocolate:
- Place six tablespoons of unsalted butter and two cups of chocolate chips in a microwave safe bowl. Heat in thirty second bursts stirring thoroughly between each. Continue until the mixture is silky smooth with no unmelted chips. Let it sit a minute or two to cool so it does not cook the eggs in the next step.
- Beat Eggs Sugar and Vanilla:
- In a separate mixing bowl combine three large eggs one cup sugar and one teaspoon vanilla. Use a handheld mixer or whisk and beat steadily at medium high speed for about three minutes. You want the mixture pale thick and a bit frothy as this sets the stage for a rich yet delicate texture.
- Combine Chocolate and Egg Mixtures:
- Lower the mixer speed to the lowest setting. With careful slow pouring drizzle the melted chocolate and butter mixture into the egg mixture. Keep the stream steady so the eggs do not scramble. Gently mix just until everything is well combined and streak free.
- Add Dry Ingredients:
- Sprinkle in half a cup of flour along with a quarter teaspoon each of baking powder and salt. Use a spatula to fold these in with gentle strokes until you see no more dry spots. Avoid over mixing to keep the batter soft.
- Fold in Extra Chocolate:
- Add the final cup of chocolate chips to the batter. Fold gently so the chips are evenly scattered throughout. These will melt just enough to form gooey pockets in every bite.
- Bake the Brownie Pie:
- Pour the finished batter into your prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Slide it into the center of the oven and bake for thirty five to forty minutes. The edges should look set like a classic brownie but the center should keep a little jiggle when wobbled. This is the secret to that gooey molten texture.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the pie cool completely to room temperature before slicing. For the squishiest slices warm briefly in the microwave just before serving. Top with a generous scoop of ice cream and drizzle with hot fudge sauce for the ultimate finish.
Chocolate chips are my not so secret obsession in this pie. I love how they create hidden pockets of molten richness that surprise everyone who takes a bite. One year we brought this to a picnic and my cousin still calls it the magic pie.
Storage Tips
Keep leftover brownie pie tightly covered at room temperature for up to two days. If you prefer a firmer slice store in the fridge. For longer storage wrap individual slices and freeze for up to one month. Thaw gently at room temperature or warm slightly before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap semi sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate for a deeper flavor or use milk chocolate for extra sweetness. If you are out of vanilla extract try a pinch of instant coffee for extra depth. Gluten free all purpose flour works if needed just use a one to one ratio.
Serving Suggestions
Scoop vanilla ice cream or whipped cream alongside for an unbeatable combo. Add roasted nuts or fresh berries to your plate for a grown up touch. This pie makes a great centerpiece for birthdays or weekend gatherings.
Seasonal Adaptations
Add a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder for winter warmth. Top with fresh strawberries in spring for a lighter finish. Use peppermint extract instead of vanilla for holidays.
Success Stories
A neighbor’s teenager once declared this the best chocolate dessert ever after two slices at our block party. Kids love it for playdates and grown ups sneak extra pieces after dinner. Everyone asks for the recipe and it has never failed to impress.
Freezer Meal Conversion
Slice the cooled pie into wedges and layer them in a freezer safe container with parchment paper between. Thaw slices individually for quick desserts or late night cravings. This method makes it easy to always have a treat on hand.
This pie deserves a spot at any celebration table. Its versatility and bold chocolate flavor never grow old. If you try this once you’ll know why it is always a request at our place.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve a gooey center?
Underbake slightly so edges are firm but the center still jiggles gently when shaken.
- → Can I use milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?
Yes, but the finished pie will be sweeter and less rich in chocolate flavor.
- → Why do I need to melt chocolate and butter together?
This method creates a silky base and helps distribute chocolate flavor evenly throughout.
- → Should the pie cool fully before serving?
Let cool for best slicing, but it's delicious slightly warm with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream.
- → What role does baking powder play?
It helps lighten the texture, giving the pie a soft, cake-like edge with a gooey interior.
- → Is hot fudge sauce necessary?
Optional—but highly recommended! It adds extra richness and a luscious, creamy finish.