Chocolate Potato Chip Pie Recipe

Chocolate Potato Chip Pie Recipe

Cook Time: 45 minutes

This indulgent pie combines a savory-sweet crust made from kettle-cooked potato chips, a rich chocolate filling, and a smooth ganache topping. Perfect for any dessert lover looking to try something different!

Ingredients

Crust:

  • 16 ounces kettle-cooked potato chips
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup oat flour

Filling:

  • 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
  • 4 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
  • 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 3 large eggs, yolks broken
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Ganache:

  • 2 cups dark chocolate chips
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 12 kettle-cooked potato chips, crushed

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350F (175C).

Step 2: Prepare the crust: In a food processor, pulse the potato chips until they become fine crumbs. Transfer the crumbs into a large mixing bowl. Add the oat flour and melted butter, and stir until well combined.

Step 3: Press the mixture evenly into a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the crust turns golden. Set aside to cool.

Step 4: Prepare the filling: In a saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the semisweet chocolate chips, chopped bittersweet chocolate, and heavy whipping cream. Stir occasionally until the chocolate melts and the mixture is smooth, about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Whisk in the eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Continue cooking and stirring for another 5 minutes, or until the mixture begins to thicken. Remove from heat and pour the filling into the cooled crust.

Step 6: Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 28 to 30 minutes, or until the filling is set. Let the pie cool for 30 minutes.

Step 7: Prepare the ganache: In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, whisk together the dark chocolate chips and heavy whipping cream until smooth. Add the vegetable oil and whisk until fully combined. Let the ganache cool for about 5 minutes.

Step 8: Pour the ganache over the pie and smooth it out using an offset spatula. Before the ganache sets, sprinkle the crushed kettle chips around the edge of the pie.

Step 9: Let the pie stand for 30 minutes at room temperature. Then, transfer the pie to the refrigerator and chill for 1 to 2 hours, or until the ganache is fully set.

Step 10: Slice the pie and enjoy this decadent treat!

Cook's Note

To make oat flour at home, process 1/4 cup rolled oats in a food processor or high-powered blender until you achieve a fine powder or your desired texture.

Cover any leftover pie and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition Facts (per serving) Amount
Calories 1305
Total Fat 93g
Saturated Fat 38g
Cholesterol 147mg
Sodium 727mg
Total Carbohydrate 109g
Dietary Fiber 11g
Total Sugars 40g
Protein 16g
Vitamin C 22mg
Calcium 114mg
Iron 9mg
Potassium 1774mg

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your calorie needs.

Chocolate Potato Chip Pie Recipe

The History and Origins of Chocolate Potato Chip Pie

Chocolate Potato Chip Pie is a modern American dessert that uniquely combines the sweet richness of chocolate with the salty crunch of potato chips. Its origins are believed to trace back to mid-20th century America, during a period when experimental baking and combining sweet and savory flavors became increasingly popular. The concept likely evolved from traditional chocolate pies, with the addition of potato chips offering both texture and a surprising burst of flavor.

Regional Characteristics

This pie is primarily an American creation, with the Southern and Midwestern United States often taking credit for its popularization. In these regions, desserts that mix sweet and salty ingredients are common, reflecting a broader culinary tradition of comfort foods. Regional variations may include the use of locally favored chocolate types, such as milk chocolate in the South or semisweet in the Midwest, and sometimes the inclusion of additional nuts or caramel layers for extra richness.

How It Differs From Similar Dishes

Unlike standard chocolate pies, which typically have a traditional pastry or cookie crust, Chocolate Potato Chip Pie uses a crust made from crushed kettle-cooked potato chips and butter. This unique base creates a salty, crunchy foundation that balances the smooth, rich chocolate filling. Unlike chocolate-covered potato chip treats or candy bars, the pie format allows for a layered dessert experience, combining crust, filling, and ganache into a single indulgent bite.

Typical Serving Context

Chocolate Potato Chip Pie is most often served as a dessert at casual gatherings, family dinners, and holiday celebrations. Its striking contrast of flavors and textures makes it a conversation starter at potlucks or parties. While it is not commonly found in restaurants, it has become a favorite in home baking circles, particularly for those looking to impress guests with a creative twist on a classic chocolate pie.

Interesting Facts

  • The combination of chocolate and potato chips leverages the "salted chocolate" trend, which heightens the perception of sweetness and richness.
  • Using kettle-cooked chips provides extra crunch and a deeper flavor than standard potato chips, enhancing the overall texture of the crust.
  • The pie can be made with a variety of chocolate typesdark, milk, or semisweetallowing customization to suit different tastes.
  • Despite its indulgent ingredients, the pie can be stored in the refrigerator for several days without losing its unique texture, making it ideal for advance preparation.
  • It is considered a playful dessert because it challenges traditional notions of pie ingredients, turning an everyday snack into a gourmet treat.

FAQ about Chocolate Potato Chip Pie Recipe

To store leftover pie, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. It can be kept for up to 4 days.

Yes, you can freeze the pie. To do so, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

If the crust doesn't hold together, it may be due to insufficient binding from the butter or oat flour. You can try adding a little more melted butter to help it stick together better before pressing it into the pan.

Yes, you can experiment with different types of flour, but oat flour is recommended for a slightly nutty flavor. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour instead of oat flour.

If your chocolate filling is too runny, it may not have thickened enough during the cooking process. Try cooking it a little longer to allow it to thicken more before pouring it into the crust.

Yes, you can prepare the pie a day or two ahead. Just make sure to refrigerate it once the ganache has set and cover it properly to avoid it drying out.

The filling is set when it no longer jiggles and is firm to the touch. After baking, allow it to cool for at least 30 minutes before checking its consistency.

While the flavor and texture of the pie would change, you could substitute the potato chips with pretzels or even tortilla chips for a different variation. Keep in mind that the saltiness of the chips plays an important role in balancing the sweetness of the filling.

If your ganache becomes too thick, gently reheat it over low heat while stirring to bring it back to a smooth consistency before pouring it over the pie.

Comments

George Thompson

09/09/2024 12:57:16 PM

I am disappointed to be the first to review this pie negatively, but unfortunately, it did not meet our expectations at all. The crust was excessively greasy due to the oil in the chips and added butter, causing the pie slices to slide around the plates when we tried to cut them. Additionally, the crust lacked cohesion and flavor, and would have greatly benefited from some sugar to enhance its taste. The baked chocolate layer had an odd texture that was difficult to articulate - my husband summed it up by saying the only redeeming quality was the ganache, which I had prepared differently from the recipe by following my own method (heating up cream, pouring it over chocolate, and stirring to melt/combine). Regrettably, this is one of the rare occasions where I had to discard a dish. I detest wasting food, but this pie was simply inedible. I apologize for the negative feedback, but this recipe did not work out for us. Nonetheless, thank you for sharing it.