Hot Fudge Pie Recipe

If you love desserts that offer intense chocolatey flavor and molten richness in every bite, then you absolutely need to experience Hot Fudge Pie. With its simple pantry ingredients and irresistible gooey center, this recipe creates a classic Southern treat that will steal the show at any meal. Whether served warm from the oven with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed all on its own, Hot Fudge Pie is every chocolate lover’s dream come true: decadent, comforting, and wonderfully easy to make—even if you’re short on time.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Hot Fudge Pie is how it transforms a handful of simple ingredients into something magical. Each one plays a crucial role, from the fudgy base to the crackly top—don’t skimp on any of them!

• Unsalted Butter (1 stick, ½ cup, melted): This provides a rich, buttery base and keeps the pie tender and moist.
• Granulated Sugar (1 cup): Balances the chocolate with just the right sweetness and helps achieve that signature gooey center.
• Large Eggs (2): They bind everything together and give the pie its luscious, custardy texture.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (⅓ cup): Bring on the deep, decadent chocolate flavor—using good-quality cocoa makes all the difference.
• All-Purpose Flour (¼ cup): Just enough to hold the pie together without sacrificing the fudge factor.
• Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Adds warm, aromatic notes that round out the chocolate beautifully.
• Salt (⅛ tsp): Enhances the flavors and keeps the sweetness in check.
• Vanilla Ice Cream (for serving, optional): The classic partner—creamy, cold, and dreamy atop every warm slice.

How to Make Hot Fudge Pie

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) and let it preheat while you get everything else ready. Lightly grease a 9-inch pie pan—this ensures that signature fudgy bottom slides right out when it’s time to slice and serve.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together your melted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is beautifully smooth and glossy. This step is key for a glossy finish and a perfectly chewy center. Then add your eggs one at a time, beating well after each to fully incorporate them—think of this as building a luscious, creamy base for your Hot Fudge Pie.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

Sprinkle in the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until everything comes together in a thick, silky batter. Make sure to scrape the bottom and sides so you don’t miss any pockets of flour or cocoa—it’s all about that consistent, chocolatey goodness throughout.

Step 4: Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared pie pan and gently spread it into an even layer. Slide the pan into the oven, and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The magic is in the timing: the edges should look set and slightly puffed, but the center should still be soft and fudge-like. Resist the urge to overbake—Hot Fudge Pie is all about that molten heart!

Step 5: Let Cool and Serve

Once baked, let the pie cool for about 10 minutes. This brief wait helps everything settle (the hardest part, I know). Slice into generous wedges and serve warm—ideally with a scoop or two of vanilla ice cream melting over the top for an unforgettable, ultra-indulgent bite.

How to Serve Hot Fudge Pie

Garnishes

Of course, Hot Fudge Pie is heavenly on its own, but if you’re in the mood to dress things up, try a cloud of freshly whipped cream, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, or even a dusting of cocoa powder. Chopped toasted pecans or walnuts add a fantastic crunch that complements the gooey chocolate center, too!

Side Dishes

Because this dessert packs such a rich punch, it pairs wonderfully with light and refreshing sides. Fresh berries—think raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries—bring a bright, tart contrast. For a dinner party, a crisp glass of cold milk or a shot of strong espresso on the side is perfection.

Creative Ways to Present

For an extra-special twist, try baking your Hot Fudge Pie in individual ramekins for personal-sized molten cakes. You can also layer warm slices with ice cream and crushed cookies in parfait glasses, or drizzle with a splash of warm caramel or bourbon sauce for a grown-up treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftover Hot Fudge Pie, simply cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The texture will stay moist and fudgy—just how you want it!

Freezing

Hot Fudge Pie freezes well, making it a great make-ahead dessert. Wrap tightly in plastic and foil (or portion out individual slices before wrapping) and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven gooeyness, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds, or warm larger portions in a 300°F oven until just heated through. Be careful not to overdo it—you want to preserve that soft fudge center!

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, you can use salted butter in a pinch! Just omit the added salt in the recipe so the flavors stay balanced.

What’s the best way to know when Hot Fudge Pie is done baking?

The goal is a set edge but a slightly gooey center. Start checking at the 25-minute mark; a toothpick inserted towards the edge should come out mostly clean, while the center should still look a little soft.

Can I make Hot Fudge Pie gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute your favorite 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. The pie may be ever-so-slightly more delicate, but the rich, fudgy texture will still shine through.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes—just bake it in a 9×13 inch pan and extend the bake time by about 5 to 10 minutes, watching for doneness as usual. You’ll have plenty to go around!

Is it okay to serve Hot Fudge Pie cold?

It can be served at room temperature or even cold from the fridge, and it will have a more truffle-like texture. But trust me, it’s outrageously delicious when served warm and gooey.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason Hot Fudge Pie is a time-honored favorite—it’s easy to make, endlessly comforting, and tastes absolutely divine. Give it a try soon, and get ready for eager requests for seconds (and the recipe) every time you serve it!

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