Homemade Chocolate Pudding Pie with a Brownie Crust

**Homemade Chocolate Pudding Pie with a Brownie Crust**

*A Decadent Dessert That Combines Fudgy Brownies with Silky Chocolate Pudding for the Ultimate Indulgence*

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### Introduction

What happens when you combine two of the most beloved chocolate desserts into one? You get **Homemade Chocolate Pudding Pie with a Brownie Crust** — a rich, indulgent dessert that hits every chocolate craving. This layered delight begins with a dense, chewy brownie base that forms a uniquely textured crust. On top of that sits a smooth, homemade chocolate pudding that is luscious and intensely chocolatey. The combination is pure comfort in every bite, topped off with whipped cream and chocolate shavings for extra flair.

This pie is perfect for gatherings, holidays, or a special family dessert night. It also holds up beautifully in the fridge, making it a great make-ahead treat.

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### Ingredients

#### For the Brownie Crust:

* ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter

* ¾ cup granulated sugar

* ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

* ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

* ¼ teaspoon salt

* 1 large egg

* ½ cup all-purpose flour

#### For the Homemade Chocolate Pudding:

* ⅔ cup granulated sugar

* ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

* ¼ cup cornstarch

* ¼ teaspoon salt

* 2 ¾ cups whole milk

* 4 large egg yolks

* 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

* 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

* 4 oz semisweet or bittersweet chocolate, chopped

#### For the Topping:

* 1 cup heavy cream

* 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

* Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder for garnish (optional)

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### Instructions

#### Step 1: Make the Brownie Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch pie dish or tart pan.

2. In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Remove from heat and whisk in sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla, and salt until smooth.

3. Stir in the egg until fully incorporated.

4. Add the flour and mix until just combined — do not overmix.

5. Pour the batter into the prepared pie dish and spread it evenly with a spatula.

6. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).

7. Allow the crust to cool completely before adding the pudding layer.

> *Tip: The brownie crust should be chewy and dense, not cakey. Be careful not to overbake — a soft texture pairs best with creamy pudding.*

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#### Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Pudding

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt.

2. Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth.

3. In a small bowl, beat the egg yolks lightly, then temper by whisking in a few tablespoons of the warm milk mixture.

4. Slowly add the tempered egg yolks back into the saucepan while whisking constantly.

5. Place the pan over medium heat and cook, whisking constantly, until the pudding thickens and begins to bubble — about 8–10 minutes.

6. Remove from heat and stir in butter, vanilla, and chopped chocolate until smooth.

7. Pour the hot pudding into the cooled brownie crust and smooth the top.

8. Place a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.

> *The key to creamy pudding is constant whisking and slow, even heating. The result is velvety and rich, with a deep chocolate flavor.*

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#### Step 3: Make the Whipped Cream Topping

1. In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until medium peaks form.

2. Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled pudding pie just before serving.

3. Garnish with chocolate shavings, cocoa powder, or even a drizzle of chocolate syrup if desired.

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### Serving and Storage Tips

* Slice the pie with a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean edges.

* Store leftovers in the refrigerator, tightly covered, for up to 3 days.

* For a frozen treat, try freezing individual slices for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

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### Final Thoughts

**Homemade Chocolate Pudding Pie with a Brownie Crust** is a dessert that satisfies the soul. The fudgy, chewy brownie base supports the smooth and luxurious pudding in perfect contrast, while the whipped cream adds lightness to balance it all out. It’s a showstopper that’s surprisingly simple to make — and even easier to devour.

Whether you're serving it for a casual family dinner or a holiday celebration, this pie is sure to win hearts and please palates. Want to take it up a notch? Try infusing the whipped cream with espresso or adding a layer of sliced bananas between the crust and pudding. The options are as limitless as your love for chocolate.

Would you like a printable version or a gluten-free adaptation of this recipe?