Are you ready to transport your taste buds to dessert heaven? Then get ready for Bishop's Chocolate Ambrosia Pie – a decadent, yet surprisingly easy-to-make dessert that's perfect for any occasion. This recipe blends the creamy richness of a classic chocolate pie with the delightful texture and subtle sweetness of an ambrosia salad, creating a truly unforgettable culinary experience. It's one of those delicious dishes that's sure to become a family favorite, perfect for quick dinner ideas and impressing guests alike.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup sugar
- 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (12-ounce) package semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup mandarin orange segments, drained
- ¼ cup toasted coconut flakes
- ¼ cup chopped maraschino cherries
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Make the Crust:
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and sugar.
- Stir in melted butter until evenly moistened.
- Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie plate.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let cool completely.
Prepare the Filling:
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine sweetened condensed milk and chocolate chips.
- Stir constantly until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Stir in mandarin orange segments, toasted coconut, and chopped maraschino cherries.
Assemble and Chill:
- Pour the chocolate filling into the cooled crust.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the pie to set completely.
Tips for Success:
- Toasting the Coconut: For extra flavor and aroma, toast the coconut flakes in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly golden.
- Chill Time is Key: Allowing the pie to chill thoroughly ensures a firm, set filling.
- Homemade Crust Option: For a truly homemade touch, try making your own graham cracker crust from scratch!
Variations:
- Add Nuts: Enhance the texture and flavor by adding ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling.
- Different Fruits: Experiment with other fruits like pineapple or strawberries.
- Dark Chocolate: For a more intense chocolate flavor, use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 450 Fat: 28g Saturated Fat: 17g Sugar: 45g Protein: 4g
This Bishop's Chocolate Ambrosia Pie is a simple yet elegant dessert that is sure to impress. The combination of creamy chocolate, sweet fruit, and crunchy coconut creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will delight your palate. It’s a perfect example of how easy recipes can create truly unforgettable homemade cooking experiences. Enjoy!