The initial attempt was… well, let’s just say it involved a slightly burnt crust, a filling that was a bit too runny, and a whole lot of giggles from the kids. But, oh, the flavor! It was pure magic. That’s how my nutella pie journey began.
Over the years, I’ve tweaked and perfected my nutella pie recipe, transforming it into a family staple. This is one of those desserts that gets requested for birthdays, holidays, and, heck, even just a regular Tuesday night sometimes! It’s a lifesaver when I need something quick, easy, and guaranteed to please. My oldest claims it’s the best nutella dessert ever, and I’m not one to argue! There’s something about that smooth, chocolatey hazelnut filling that just melts in your mouth. Trust me, the aroma alone when you’re baking this will have everyone drooling!
Now, I know some folks get intimidated by baking, but this nutella pie is seriously foolproof. I promise! I’m going to walk you through it step-by-step, sharing all my little tips and tricks along the way. From choosing the perfect crust to achieving that perfect creamy texture, I’ve got you covered. And don’t worry about making mistakes – we’ve all been there! I’ll share some of my own cooking mishaps so you can learn from them, too.
I think you’ll find my version of nutella pie to be pretty manageable, even on the busiest days. You can even prep the ingredients ahead of time. So, grab your apron, and let’s get baking! You are going to be amazed at how easy and delicious this nutella pie is. You’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again.
Ingredients for Nutella Pie
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delectable creation. Remember, quality ingredients make all the difference!
- 1 pre-made graham cracker crust (9-inch): I always use the Keebler Ready Crust for my nutella pie. It’s consistently good and saves me so much time! But feel free to use a homemade crust if you’re feeling ambitious!
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: This is key for that creamy texture. I always buy the full-fat version for the richest flavor, but a reduced-fat version will work in this nutella pie recipe if you want to shave off some calories. Just make sure it’s completely softened!
- 1 cup Nutella: Of course! I prefer using the original Nutella brand, but any chocolate hazelnut spread will do. Store brands can be a bit more oily sometimes, so just be aware of that. For my nutella pie, I like to warm the Nutella up slightly so that it incorporates easier.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: This adds sweetness and helps stabilize the filling.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A touch of vanilla enhances the chocolate hazelnut flavor. I always use pure vanilla extract – it’s worth the splurge!
- 1/4 cup milk: This helps thin the filling to the perfect consistency.
- Optional toppings: Whipped cream, chopped hazelnuts, chocolate shavings, strawberries, raspberries, or a drizzle of melted chocolate. I like to use fresh raspberries when I make my chocolate hazelnut pie.
When making nutella pie, you can usually find all these ingredients at your local grocery store. If you’re looking for a better deal on hazelnuts, try the bulk section of your supermarket or a specialty nut store.
Here’s a little trick I learned from my mom: when softening cream cheese, cut it into smaller cubes. It softens faster and more evenly! Also, if you forget to take the cream cheese out of the fridge ahead of time (we’ve all been there!), you can microwave it for a few seconds at a time until it’s soft, but be careful not to melt it! Store your leftover ingredients from making nutella pie in airtight containers at room temperature or in the fridge, depending on the ingredient.
How to Make Nutella Pie – Step-by-Step
Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty! Here’s how to make this heavenly nutella pie, step by step. Don’t worry, it’s easier than you think!
- Prepare the cream cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Make sure there are no lumps! I learned the hard way with nutella pie that lumpy cream cheese ruins the texture.
- Add the Nutella: Gradually add the Nutella to the cream cheese, mixing on medium speed until well combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is evenly incorporated. This is when your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
- Incorporate the powdered sugar and vanilla: Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, or the filling can become tough. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect easy nutella pie.
- Add the milk: Gradually add the milk, mixing on low speed until the filling is smooth and creamy. The consistency should be thick but pourable. Don’t worry if your nutella pie filling seems a little thin at this point – it will firm up in the fridge.
- Pour into the crust: Pour the nutella filling into the prepared graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Chill: Cover the nutella pie with plastic wrap (press it gently against the surface of the filling to prevent a skin from forming) and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the filling to set completely.
- Decorate (optional): Before serving, decorate the no bake nutella pie with your favorite toppings. I usually go for a generous dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chopped hazelnuts. Sometimes, I add fresh strawberries or raspberries for a pop of color and freshness. Get creative!
In my kitchen, this nutella pie usually takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare, plus the chilling time. While the nutella pie is chilling, I like to clean up the kitchen and maybe catch up on a book. And don’t be tempted to cut into it before it’s fully chilled! The waiting is the hardest part, but trust me, it’s worth it. Your nutella pie should smell like a chocolate hazelnut dream. If it doesn’t, something’s definitely wrong!
Serving Suggestions
Okay, so the nutella pie is chilled, decorated, and ready to be devoured! But let’s talk about how to make the serving experience even better.
The kids love our nutella pie when I serve it with a big scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream against the rich, chocolatey filling is just heavenly! My husband prefers his with a strong cup of coffee.
My go-to side dish to serve with nutella pie is a simple fruit salad. The freshness of the fruit helps to balance out the richness of the pie. I especially love pairing it with berries, like strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries.
This nutella pie is perfect for potlucks, birthday parties, or even a fancy dessert for a dinner party. It’s always a crowd-pleaser! I love bringing it to family gatherings – it’s always the first dessert to disappear.
For presentation, I like to dust the nutella pie with a little cocoa powder or powdered sugar before serving. It just adds a touch of elegance. You can also arrange fresh berries around the edge of the pie for a pop of color.
If you have extra nutella pie (which is rare in my house!), you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. Although, I have to admit, the nutella pie never lasts that long in my house!
For a seasonal variation, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling during the fall and winter months. It adds a warm, cozy flavor that’s perfect for the holidays. My friends always ask for this nutella pie recipe and I’m always happy to share!
Frequently Asked Questions
Okay, let’s tackle some of those burning questions you might have about making nutella pie. I’ve learned a thing or two over the years, so hopefully, I can help you avoid some common pitfalls!
Q: Can I use a different type of crust for this pie?
A: Absolutely! I prefer a graham cracker crust because it complements the chocolate hazelnut flavor so well, but you can definitely use a chocolate cookie crust, a shortbread crust, or even a regular pie crust. It’s totally up to you! Just be sure to pre-bake the crust if it’s a regular pie crust.
Q: What can I do if my filling is too thin?
A: If your filling is too thin, don’t panic! You can add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the filling before pouring it into the crust. Just make sure to mix it in really well to avoid any lumps. You can also chill the pie for a longer period of time to allow the filling to set completely. I’ve even added a bit more softened cream cheese when trying to make my nutella pie, and it worked out fine!
Q: Can I freeze this pie?
A: Yes, you can freeze this nutella pie! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to serve it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
Q: My graham cracker crust is crumbling when I cut into the pie. What can I do?
A: This can happen, especially with store-bought crusts. To prevent this, try pressing the crust firmly into the pie plate before filling it. You can also brush the crust with melted butter before adding the filling. This will help to seal it and prevent it from crumbling.
Q: Can I make this pie without cream cheese?
A: While the cream cheese adds a lot to the texture and flavor of the pie, you can make it without it. You could try substituting it with mascarpone cheese or even Greek yogurt. Just be aware that the consistency and flavor will be slightly different. My family prefers the cream cheese nutella pie recipe.
Q: What can I add to the filling to make it even more chocolatey?
A: If you want to amp up the chocolate flavor, try adding a tablespoon of cocoa powder or a handful of chocolate chips to the filling. You can also drizzle some melted chocolate over the top of the pie before serving.
Q: My pie is cracking on top. What did I do wrong?
A: Cracking can happen if the pie is chilled too quickly. To prevent this, try chilling it in the refrigerator for a longer period of time at a lower temperature. You can also cover the pie with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. You know what I do when my nutella pie cracks? I cover it with whipped cream! No one ever knows!
Final Thoughts on Nutella Pie
This nutella pie recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s a reminder of simple joys and family togetherness. It’s a dessert that always brings a smile to everyone’s face, and it’s a recipe that I know I’ll be making for years to come. The fact that it’s such an easy nutella pie to make is just icing on the cake!
Here are my nutella pie Pro Tips:
- Pro Tip #1: Don’t overmix the filling! Overmixing can lead to a tough, less-than-creamy texture.
- Pro Tip #2: Chill the pie for at least 4 hours (or overnight)! This is crucial for allowing the filling to set completely and develop its flavors.
- Pro Tip #3: Get creative with your toppings! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings to find your favorite combination.
Over the years, I’ve tried a few variations of this nutella pie with my family. One of our favorites is adding a layer of crushed Oreos to the bottom of the crust. Another variation we enjoy is adding a swirl of peanut butter to the filling. And for the holidays, I like to add a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies to the top.
My youngest daughter loves the peanut butter version the best, while my husband is a fan of the classic version with just whipped cream and hazelnuts. No matter which version you choose, I hope you enjoy making and sharing this delicious nutella pie with your loved ones.
I hope you’ll make this nutella pie your own. Don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with it! I promise, even if you make a few mistakes along the way, it will still be delicious. There’s nothing quite like the taste of homemade nutella pie to brighten your day. So go ahead, give it a try! You won’t regret it! I hope you have fun making this nutella pie. It’s truly a special dessert that I’m so happy to share with you.
You can also check out my other recipes that are family favorites like my Chewy Fudge Cookies Recipe and my Easy Peach Jam Recipe.
Here are some helpful resources from the web that I have found: Nutella Official Website and Healthline’s Article on Hazelnuts.
10 Delicious Nutella Pie Recipes: Easy & Proven!
Indulge in the creamy, chocolatey goodness of Nutella with these 10 easy-to-make pie recipes. From classic takes to innovative twists, you’ll find the perfect Nutella pie for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- Pie Crust (store-bought or homemade)
- Nutella
- Heavy Cream
- Cream Cheese (softened)
- Powdered Sugar
- Vanilla Extract
- Chocolate Shavings (for garnish, optional)
- Chopped Hazelnuts (for garnish, optional)
- Eggs (some recipes)
- Milk (some recipes)
Instructions
- Prepare or purchase your pie crust.
- If baking the crust, follow the recipe’s instructions. Some recipes might use a no-bake crust.
- In a bowl, combine Nutella with other ingredients like cream cheese, heavy cream, and powdered sugar as per the recipe’s instructions.
- Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the Nutella mixture into the prepared pie crust.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the pie to set.
- Garnish with chocolate shavings or chopped hazelnuts before serving (optional).
- Slice and enjoy! Each recipe will have slight variations, so be sure to consult the specific instructions for that recipe.
Notes
Serve chilled with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.