French Silk Slab Pie is a delightful dessert that combines the richness of chocolate with the lightness of whipped cream in a convenient slab form. Here’s how you can make it:Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/4 cup ice water
For the Filling:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 ounces unsweetened chocolate, melted and cooled
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
For the Topping:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crust:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Cut in the cold cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Shape the dough into a rectangle, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the Crust:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a large rectangle slightly larger than the dimensions of your baking sheet.
- Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough to a lightly greased 15×10-inch baking sheet, pressing it into the corners and edges.
- Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges.
- Bake the Crust:
- Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork to prevent it from puffing up during baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add the melted and cooled chocolate, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Continue beating until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Pie:
- Spread the chocolate filling evenly over the cooled crust.
- Prepare the Topping:
- In another mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar together until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the whipped cream over the chocolate filling.
- Garnish and Serve:
- If desired, garnish the pie with chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder.
- Chill the pie in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving to allow it to set.
- Slice and Enjoy:
- Once set, slice the French Silk Slab Pie into squares and serve chilled.
- Enjoy the decadent combination of silky chocolate filling and fluffy whipped cream!
This French Silk Slab Pie is perfect for gatherings and celebrations, offering a delightful treat for chocolate lovers.