James Martin Chocolate Cream Pie Recipe

James Martin’s Chocolate Cream Pie is a luxurious, rich dessert featuring a buttery pastry crust, smooth chocolate filling, and topped with whipped cream. Perfect for chocolate lovers, this pie is ideal for special occasions or as a decadent treat to enjoy with family and friends. With its creamy filling and delicate crust, this dessert is a showstopper that is surprisingly simple to make.

What is James Martin Chocolate Cream Pie?

James Martin’s Chocolate Cream Pie consists of a crisp, buttery shortcrust pastry filled with a velvety chocolate custard and topped with lightly whipped cream. The smooth chocolate filling has an intense flavor, balanced by the lightness of the whipped topping, making it a delightful dessert that melts in your mouth.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Rich and Indulgent: The chocolate custard is creamy and decadent.
• Elegant Presentation: Perfect for entertaining or special occasions.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry basics to create a stunning dessert.
• Customizable Toppings: Add shaved chocolate, berries, or nuts for added flair.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge.

Ingredients Needed to Make James Martin Chocolate Cream Pie

For the Pastry Crust

• 200g Plain Flour: Forms the base of the crust.
• 100g Unsalted Butter (cold, cubed): Adds richness and creates a flaky texture.
• 2 tbsp Icing Sugar: Adds slight sweetness to the crust.
• 1 Large Egg Yolk: Helps bind the dough.
• 1-2 tbsp Cold Water: Brings the dough together.

For the Chocolate Filling

• 200g Dark Chocolate (70% cocoa, chopped): Provides a rich, intense chocolate flavor.
• 400ml Whole Milk: Adds creaminess to the custard.
• 100ml Double Cream: Makes the filling smooth and luxurious.
• 4 Large Egg Yolks: Creates a thick, custard-like texture.
• 50g Caster Sugar: Sweetens the chocolate filling.
• 1 tsp Vanilla Extract: Enhances the chocolate flavor.

For the Topping

• 200ml Double Cream: Lightly whipped to top the pie.
• Shaved Chocolate or Cocoa Powder (optional): For garnish.

Instructions to Make James Martin Chocolate Cream Pie

Step 1. Prepare the Pastry Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine the plain flour and cold, cubed butter. Rub together with your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Add the icing sugar and egg yolk, and mix well. Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.

Step 2. Chill and Roll Out the Dough

Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill in the fridge for 20-30 minutes. After chilling, roll out the pastry on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Line a 9-inch tart tin with the pastry, pressing it into the edges. Trim any excess pastry.

Step 3. Blind Bake the Pastry

Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F. Line the pastry with parchment paper and fill with baking beans or rice. Blind bake for 10 minutes, then remove the parchment and beans and bake for an additional 5 minutes until lightly golden. Set aside to cool.

Step 4. Make the Chocolate Filling

In a saucepan, heat the milk and double cream over medium heat until it begins to steam (do not boil). In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks, caster sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth. Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to avoid curdling.

Step 5. Melt the Chocolate and Combine

Place the chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Pour the hot custard mixture over the chocolate, stirring until smooth and fully melted. Let it cool slightly before pouring it into the prepared pastry crust.

Step 6. Chill the Pie

Pour the chocolate filling into the baked crust and smooth the top. Place the pie in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or until the filling is set.

Step 7. Whip the Cream and Garnish

Before serving, whip the double cream until soft peaks form. Spread the whipped cream over the top of the chocolate pie, and garnish with shaved chocolate or a dusting of cocoa powder, if desired.

What Goes Well With James Martin Chocolate Cream Pie

• Fresh Berries – Adds a fruity contrast to the rich chocolate.
• Espresso or Coffee – Complements the deep chocolate flavor.
• Caramel Sauce Drizzle – Adds an extra layer of sweetness.
• Toasted Nuts – For a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
• Mint Leaves – Provides a refreshing finish.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Chocolate Cream Pie

For a perfect chocolate cream pie, follow these tips:

• Use Quality Chocolate – High-quality chocolate (70% cocoa) gives a rich flavor.
• Chill the Pastry Dough – Chilling helps prevent the crust from shrinking during baking.
• Blind Bake the Crust – Ensures the pastry stays crisp with the creamy filling.
• Cool Filling Before Refrigerating – Let the custard cool slightly to avoid condensation.
• Serve Chilled – The pie is best enjoyed straight from the fridge.

Easy Variations of James Martin Chocolate Cream Pie

Try these variations for different flavors:

• Add Orange Zest – Adds a subtle citrus note.
• Use White Chocolate Filling – For a creamy, milder flavor.
• Top with Salted Caramel – Adds a salty-sweet contrast.
• Add a Coffee Layer – Stir in espresso powder for a mocha flavor.
• Top with Chopped Hazelnuts – Add a Nutella-inspired twist.

Best Practices to Store James Martin Chocolate Cream Pie

• Store in the Fridge – Keep the pie covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Cover with Plastic Wrap – Prevents the whipped cream from drying out.
• Freeze Without Topping – Freeze the pie without the cream topping for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge and add the cream before serving.

Best Practices to Reheat James Martin Chocolate Cream Pie

• Serve Chilled or at Room Temperature – This pie is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature; no reheating is necessary.
• Refresh Whipped Cream – If needed, whip fresh cream to add as a topping.

How Can I Make James Martin Chocolate Cream Pie Healthier?

• Reduce Sugar – Use less sugar in the filling and crust.
• Use Whole Wheat Flour – Substitute part of the plain flour for added fiber.
• Skip the Whipped Cream – Enjoy the pie with a lighter topping like Greek yogurt.
• Use Low-Fat Milk – Substitute whole milk with low-fat milk in the filling.
• Add Fresh Berries – Serve with berries for natural sweetness and nutrients.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

• Calories: 420
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 27g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 24g

FAQs

Can I Make James Martin Chocolate Cream Pie Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can make chocolate cream pie up to one day ahead. Prepare the crust and chocolate filling, then chill it overnight in the fridge. Add the whipped cream topping just before serving for the freshest taste and texture.

How Do I Keep the Pastry Crust from Getting Soggy?

To keep the crust from getting soggy, blind bake it before adding the chocolate filling. This process helps create a crisp, sturdy crust that holds up well with the creamy filling.

Can I Use Milk Chocolate Instead of Dark Chocolate?

Yes, milk chocolate can be used, but it will create a sweeter, milder filling. To maintain a rich flavor, consider using a blend of milk and dark chocolate, especially if you prefer a less sweet pie.

How Long Does James Martin Chocolate Cream Pie Last in the Fridge?

Chocolate cream pie will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to keep the crust and filling fresh.

Final Words

James Martin’s Chocolate Cream Pie is a beautifully indulgent dessert with its rich chocolate filling, buttery crust, and fluffy whipped topping. This dessert is perfect for chocolate lovers and makes an impressive treat for any special occasion. Serve chilled and enjoy each smooth, creamy bite!

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