Hot Fudge Pie

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Hot Fudge Pie is a rich, chocolatey dessert that sits somewhere between a brownie and a molten chocolate cake. With a crackly top and a soft, fudgy center, this old-fashioned dessert is a longtime favorite in Southern kitchens and family gatherings.

This classic hot fudge pie recipe is made with simple pantry staples and comes together in minutes—no fancy techniques or special equipment required. It’s baked just long enough to set the edges while keeping the center irresistibly gooey.

If you love deep chocolate flavor, nostalgic desserts, and easy homemade treats, this hot fudge pie is guaranteed to hit the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy, one-bowl preparation
• Deep chocolate flavor with a fudgy texture
• Simple pantry ingredients
• Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight desserts
• Delicious served warm or at room temperature

About the Ingredients

Butter

Butter adds richness and helps create the pie’s signature fudgy texture. Softened butter creams easily with sugar for a smooth batter.

Granulated Sugar

Sugar sweetens the pie and contributes to the crackly top that forms as it bakes.

Eggs

Eggs provide structure while keeping the center soft and gooey. Mixing them in gently helps prevent a cake-like texture.

Cocoa Powder

Cocoa powder delivers bold chocolate flavor without making the pie overly sweet. It’s the heart of this dessert.

All-Purpose Flour

A small amount of flour gives the pie just enough structure while still allowing the center to stay soft.

Tips & Tricks

• Mix by hand after adding eggs to keep the texture fudgy
• Do not overbake—the center should be just set
• Use an 8-inch pie pan for best thickness
• Let the pie rest before slicing for cleaner cuts
• Serve warm for the ultimate gooey experience

Pro Tips

• Add a pinch of espresso powder to deepen chocolate flavor
• Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream
• Sprinkle powdered sugar on top for presentation
• Use high-quality cocoa powder for richer taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8-inch pie pan with butter or cooking spray and set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together using an electric mixer for about 3 minutes, until light and fluffy.

Add the eggs and vanilla extract, then switch to mixing by hand. Stir gently until just combined—this helps maintain the pie’s gooey texture.

Next, add the cocoa powder, salt, and flour. Stir carefully by hand until the batter is smooth and no dry streaks remain. Avoid overmixing.

Pour the batter into the prepared pie pan and smooth the top evenly. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is just firm.

Remove from the oven and allow the pie to cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Variations

• Add chopped nuts for texture
• Stir in chocolate chips for extra richness
• Serve with caramel sauce instead of fudge
• Add a pinch of cinnamon for warmth
• Make it gluten-free using a 1:1 flour substitute

How to Store

• Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days
• Refrigerate for up to 5 days
• Reheat slices briefly in the microwave
• Serve warm for best flavor and texture

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hot fudge pie supposed to be gooey?
Yes, the center should be soft and fudgy, not cake-like.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it can be baked a day ahead and reheated before serving.

How do I know when it’s done?
The edges should be set, and the center should no longer jiggle.

Can I use Dutch-processed cocoa?
Yes, but natural cocoa gives a more classic flavor.

What’s the best way to serve hot fudge pie?
Warm, with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Caroline

Hot Fudge Pie

This classic Southern hot fudge pie features a rich, brownie-like center with crisp, set edges. Made with simple pantry staples, it bakes into a deeply chocolatey dessert that’s best served warm.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 8 slices

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 stick unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 tbsp cocoa powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

Equipment

• mixing bowl
• Hand mixer
• spatula or spoon
• 8-inch pie pan

Method

 

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch pie pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Stir in the eggs and vanilla extract by hand until just combined.
4. Add the cocoa powder, salt, and flour, mixing gently until incorporated.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pie pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 30–35 minutes, until the edges are set but the center is still soft.
7. Cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Notes

This pie continues to firm up as it cools, so avoid overbaking. For a traditional touch, serve warm with vanilla ice cream to highlight the gooey fudge center.

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