There’s something magical about the smell of chocolate baking in the oven. It wraps around your senses, pulling you into the kitchen with a promise of comfort and joy. This Gooey Brownie Pie delivers on that promise and then some. With its crisp edges, dense fudgy center, and rich chocolate flavor, it’s the kind of dessert that can turn any day around. Whether you’re short on time or need a dessert that everyone will rave about, this pie is here to save the day.
I first stumbled across a version of this dessert during a hectic week when I was craving something indulgent but didn’t want to fuss with complicated layers or chilling time. What started as a makeshift treat quickly became a household favorite—especially when served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. If you’re a fan of both brownies and pie, you’re in for a treat that checks every box.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Gooey Brownie Pie
- Quick prep: Minimal mixing and only one bowl needed.
- Rich flavor: A generous amount of chocolate gives this pie its signature depth.
- Versatile: Great for family nights, potlucks, or an indulgent solo dessert moment.
- Perfect texture: Crackly top, fudgy center, and buttery crust underneath.
“This is the dessert I make when my day needs a turnaround. It’s fast, deeply satisfying, and always earns compliments.”
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | 6 tablespoons |
| Semi-sweet chocolate chips | 3 cups, divided |
| Large eggs | 3 |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| All-purpose flour | 1/2 cup |
| Baking powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Pre-made pie crust | 1 (9-inch) |
Most of these ingredients are probably already in your pantry. That’s the beauty of it—there’s nothing fancy required, just classic baking staples used in the right proportions to create a crave-worthy dessert.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 496 |
| Carbohydrates | 53g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Fat | 28g |
| Saturated Fat | 16g |
| Cholesterol | 71mg |
| Sodium | 177mg |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sugar | 39g |
Keep in mind these values are estimated and may vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients you use.
How to Make Gooey Brownie Pie
- Preheat and prep: Set your oven to 350°F. Roll out your pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish. Press it in evenly and trim any excess over the edge.
- Melt butter and chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 6 tablespoons of butter and 2 cups of the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Let it cool for 5 minutes.
- Whisk the eggs and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat 3 eggs and 1 cup of granulated sugar together using an electric mixer. Keep it going for about 3 minutes until it’s pale and slightly thickened.
- Combine mixtures: Slowly pour the cooled chocolate mixture into the egg mixture, stirring constantly to prevent scrambling.
- Add dry ingredients: Mix in the vanilla extract, flour, baking powder, and salt just until everything is blended. Don’t overmix.
- Fold in extra chips: Gently fold in the remaining 1 cup of chocolate chips. This gives you little pockets of melty chocolate throughout the pie.
- Pour and bake: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 40–45 minutes. You’re looking for a crackly top and a center that still jiggles slightly.
- Cool before serving: Let the pie rest on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before cutting. This allows it to set up properly and makes for cleaner slices.
“Don’t worry if the center looks a bit soft—it firms up as it cools, and that gooey center is exactly what you want.”
Helpful Tips for the Best Gooey Brownie Pie
- Use good chocolate: The quality of your chocolate chips really makes a difference. Go for a trusted brand you enjoy snacking on.
- Room temp eggs: Let your eggs sit out for 10 minutes before mixing. This helps them incorporate better and gives the pie a smoother texture.
- Don’t overbake: Check for doneness around 40 minutes. The middle should look barely set—overbaking will take away that gooey goodness.
It’s the kind of dessert that rewards patience—but thankfully, it doesn’t ask for much. A few steps, a few pantry staples, and you’ve got a showstopper of a treat.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic: A warm slice topped with vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
- Brunch Treat: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a hot cup of coffee for a sweet brunch finish.
- Dressed Up: Add fresh raspberries or strawberries for a pop of color and tang to balance the richness.
Perfect Drink Pairings
- Espresso: The bold bitterness cuts through the sweetness and makes each bite more satisfying.
- Red Wine: Try a Merlot or Zinfandel if you’re serving this after dinner.
- Milk: For a nostalgic twist, go for a tall, cold glass of milk—because some things just belong together.
Restaurant-Quality Presentation Tips
- Slice the pie cleanly using a warm knife. Wipe between slices for a tidy look.
- Drizzle warm chocolate ganache on the plate and place the slice on top for that five-star feel.
- Add a small mint sprig or powdered sugar dusting for contrast and visual appeal.
“My kids call this the ‘Sunday night pie’—it’s our go-to reward after a long week, and they always ask for seconds.”
Frequently Asked Questions About Gooey Brownie Pie
Can I make Gooey Brownie Pie without a crust?
Absolutely. If you’re craving a crustless version, simply pour the brownie batter into a greased pie dish and bake as directed. The texture will be a little different—more like a traditional brownie—but just as delicious.
Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Yes, dark chocolate can be used if you prefer a more intense cocoa flavor. Keep in mind that dark chocolate is less sweet, so the final pie will have a deeper, slightly more bitter taste. You can balance it with a sweeter topping like whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
How should I store leftover Gooey Brownie Pie?
Leftovers should be covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. Keep it at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for up to a week. If you’re planning to serve it warm again, a quick 15–20 seconds in the microwave does the trick.
Can this pie be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze Gooey Brownie Pie. Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm before serving.
What if I don’t have a mixer?
No problem. You can mix by hand with a whisk and a strong arm. It may take a little longer to beat the eggs and sugar to that fluffy texture, but it’s doable. The key is to whisk vigorously until the mixture is pale and slightly thickened.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Definitely. Chopped walnuts, pecans, or even white chocolate chips work beautifully in this recipe. Stir them in with the final cup of chocolate chips before baking.
How to Store and Reheat Gooey Brownie Pie
- Room Temperature: Store on the counter in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 7 days. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature or warm it before serving for the best texture.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Slice before freezing for easy portions.
“I like to freeze individual slices for quick treats—just microwave for 20 seconds and it tastes freshly baked.”
Tips for Making It Ahead
You can prepare the brownie filling up to a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour it into the crust and follow the baking instructions. If baking from cold, you might need to add 3–5 minutes to the baking time.
Best Toppings for Gooey Brownie Pie
- Ice Cream: Vanilla, salted caramel, or even chocolate chip mint pair wonderfully.
- Fruit: Fresh raspberries or strawberries add a bright contrast.
- Sauces: Warm caramel or chocolate fudge sauce take this over the top.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened cream balances the richness.
“One time I served it with a scoop of espresso ice cream and a dusting of cocoa powder—my guests still talk about it.”
A Final Word on Gooey Brownie Pie
If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a hug in pie form, this Gooey Brownie Pie is the one. It’s easy to pull together, deeply satisfying, and hits that chocolate craving every single time. Whether you bake it for a celebration or just because you deserve something sweet, this pie won’t disappoint. One bite, and you’ll understand why it’s become a go-to favorite in kitchens like mine across the country.
Don’t be surprised if it becomes your new tradition—just be ready to share the recipe when people ask for it (and they will).