Orange Chocolate Cream Pie: A Decadent Blend of Citrus & Silky Chocolate Layers

If you’re a lover of all things citrus and chocolate, this Orange Chocolate Cream Pie will be your new go-to dessert! This pie has a buttery graham cracker crust, rich layers of chocolate, and an orange-infused cream filling, all topped with a luscious orange mascarpone whipped cream. Each bite is a creamy, zesty, and deeply satisfying indulgence. It’s perfect for any special occasion or when you simply want to treat yourself to something extraordinary.

Scroll to the bottom for the recipe!

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The Inspiration Behind Orange Chocolate Cream Pie

There’s something magical about the pairing of bittersweet chocolate and bright, citrusy orange. The tang of fresh orange zest perfectly balances the deep, rich flavor of chocolate, and this pie is a celebration of that harmony. Inspired by classic chocolate cream pies, this version elevates the experience by adding fresh orange zest and juice into the filling, bringing a burst of sunshine into every bite. The graham cracker crust adds a touch of sweetness and crunch, while the velvety mascarpone whipped cream takes it over the top.

Why You’ll Love This Orange Chocolate Cream Pie

You’ll adore how the smooth and silky texture of the filling contrasts with the crisp graham cracker crust. Plus, the orange zest gives the pie a refreshing, tangy edge that perfectly complements the chocolate. The mascarpone whipped cream is light and fluffy, with a hint of orange that ties everything together beautifully. It’s a sophisticated yet simple dessert that’s sure to impress your family and friends!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Fat: 29g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Sugar: 25g
• Protein: 6g

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Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Orange Chocolate Cream Pie is delightful on its own, but you can take it to the next level by serving it with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a few candied orange slices. It also pairs beautifully with a glass of chilled dessert wine or a warm cup of espresso. For an extra indulgent experience, serve alongside fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This pie stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a great make-ahead dessert for special occasions. If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze the pie (without the whipped topping) for up to two months. When ready to serve, let it thaw in the fridge and top with freshly made mascarpone whipped cream.

Fun Fact: The History of Chocolate and Citrus in Desserts

Chocolate and citrus have been paired together for centuries, with chocolate being introduced to Europe in the 16th century and quickly becoming a favorite ingredient in desserts. The addition of orange to chocolate desserts became popular during the Victorian era in England, where candied orange peel and chocolate-covered orange slices were common treats. Today, the combination of orange and chocolate continues to be a beloved flavor pairing in desserts around the world.

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Cooking Tips

• Double the Layers: If you want even more orange flavor, you can increase the amount of orange zest and juice in the filling.
• Perfect Whipped Cream: Be sure to chill your bowl and beaters before making the whipped cream—this helps it whip up faster and hold its shape better.
• Chocolate Shavings: For a fancy finish, use a vegetable peeler to make chocolate curls from a block of bittersweet chocolate.

Optional Variations

• Add Liqueur: A tablespoon of orange liqueur, such as Grand Marnier, in the filling or whipped cream will add a delicious depth of flavor.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chocolate filling for a subtle kick that pairs beautifully with the orange.

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Orange Chocolate Cream Pie Recipe

Ingredients:

• 9 x 1½-inch deep Graham Cracker Crust
• • 1¾ cups graham crackers (12 sheets)
  • 2 Tablespoons light brown sugar, packed
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 7 Tablespoons butter, melted
• Orange Chocolate Filling
• • ⅔ cup cane sugar
  • 3½ Tablespoons cornstarch
  • ⅛ teaspoon salt
  • 1 Tablespoon grated orange zest + 1½ Tablespoons juice
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 large eggs, slightly mixed
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 6 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
  • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• Orange Mascarpone Whipped Cream
• • 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
  • ¼ cup mascarpone cheese
  • 2 Tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 2 Tablespoons orange juice + 1 teaspoon orange zest
  • Dash of cinnamon (optional)
• Garnish
• • Chocolate shavings

Instructions:

1. Make the Graham Cracker Crust:
2. • Preheat the oven to 350˚F. Combine graham crackers, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a food processor and pulse until crumbs are fine.
   • Add melted butter and stir with a fork until evenly coated. Press crumbs into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie pan.
   • Bake the crust for 7 minutes. Let cool on a wire rack.
3. Prepare the Orange Chocolate Filling:
4. • In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Add orange juice/zest, milk, heavy cream, and eggs. Stir over medium-high heat until the mixture thickens (about 7 minutes).
   • Remove from heat and strain through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl. Stir in vanilla extract. Transfer 1½ cups of the filling into a bowl with chopped chocolate, stirring until smooth. Pour the chocolate layer into the crust and smooth it out.
   • Layer the orange filling on top, smoothing with a spatula. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
5. Make the Mascarpone Whipped Cream:
6. • Whip heavy cream, mascarpone, powdered sugar, orange juice/zest, and a dash of cinnamon until stiff peaks form. Refrigerate until ready to use.
7. Assemble the Pie:
8. • Pipe or spread the whipped cream on top of the pie and garnish with chocolate shavings. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Final Thoughts

This Orange Chocolate Cream Pie is a beautiful combination of zesty citrus and rich chocolate, topped with an ultra-creamy mascarpone whipped cream. It’s a dessert that looks as good as it tastes and is sure to be a hit at your next gathering!

Enjoy baking this luscious pie and savor every bite!