Hot Fudge Pie is the decadent dessert your chocolate dreams have been waiting for. With its ultra-rich, gooey center and a glossy, crackled top, it lands somewhere between a brownie and a molten lava cake. Served warm and topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this pie is guaranteed to steal the spotlight at any dinner or celebration.

The beauty of this dessert lies in its simplicity. You don’t need a double boiler or fancy chocolate—just pantry basics and a single mixing bowl. The result is a pie that bakes up with fudgy depth and just the right amount of chewiness in the crust. It slices clean but delivers a molten bite, especially when enjoyed fresh from the oven.
Ingredients for this Hot Fudge Pie
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 9-inch unbaked pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- Optional toppings: whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, powdered sugar

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pie Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place your unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish, crimping the edges as desired. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Fudge Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar. Stir until well blended. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Step 3: Add Cocoa and Dry Ingredients
Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and lump-free. Add the vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated. The batter will be thick and glossy.
Step 4: Fill and Bake
Pour the chocolate mixture into the prepared pie crust, smoothing out the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes. The top should look set and slightly crackly, but the center should still have a soft, gooey texture.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Let the pie cool on a wire rack for about 15 minutes before serving. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Add whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a graham cracker crust instead?
While a traditional pie crust is preferred for texture, you can use a graham cracker crust for a twist. Expect a slightly crunchier bite and a more cookie-like flavor.
Can I make Hot Fudge Pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pie a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and reheat before serving.
Is it okay to use Dutch-process cocoa powder?
Yes, Dutch-process cocoa works fine and adds a smoother, less acidic flavor. Just make sure it’s unsweetened.
Can I add chocolate chips or nuts?
Definitely. A half-cup of chocolate chips or chopped nuts stirred into the batter adds extra texture and flavor.
How do I know when the pie is done?
The edges should be set and slightly puffed while the center should look barely set. A toothpick inserted 2 inches from the edge should come out with moist crumbs.
What can I serve with Hot Fudge Pie?
Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce are all perfect toppings.

Hot Fudge Pie
- Total Time: 34 minute
- Yield: 8 servings
Description
This Hot Fudge Pie is your ultimate easy dessert recipe—a gooey, rich chocolate treat with the fudgy texture of a brownie and the presentation of a pie. Whether you’re hunting for a quick dessert idea, a decadent holiday treat, or a warm chocolate fix on a cozy night, this one hits the mark. The best part? It uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
This pie is perfect for dinner ideas when you want something sweet to finish a meal, or when you’re putting together a selection of food ideas for a party. It also makes a fantastic make-ahead option for easy hosting. Slice it warm or chilled, serve it plain or loaded with whipped cream—either way, this pie guarantees indulgent satisfaction with every bite.
Ingredients
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 9-inch unbaked pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
Optional: whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place unbaked pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish and crimp the edges.
- In a large bowl, stir melted butter and sugar together until well combined.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly.
- Sift in cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Stir until the batter is smooth.
- Add vanilla extract and mix again until incorporated.
- Pour the batter into the prepared crust and smooth the top.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the top is set and crackly, but the center remains soft.
- Cool for 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature with your favorite toppings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
- Category: Dessert