French Silk Pie Bars are a luscious twist on the classic French silk pie—rich, creamy, and completely irresistible. Featuring a buttery shortbread crust, a decadent whipped chocolate filling, and a fluffy layer of sweetened whipped cream, these bars are the perfect make-ahead dessert for holidays, parties, or any occasion that calls for chocolate indulgence. No pie crust needed—just pure, elegant flavor in every bite-sized square!
Advertisements
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
-
Classic French Silk flavor, no pie crust rolling required
-
Perfect for make-ahead desserts
-
Layers of rich chocolate and whipped cream
-
Ideal for holidays, showers, and dinner parties
-
Beautiful, easy-to-slice dessert bar
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Crust:
-
All-Purpose Flour (1 cup): The base of the shortbread-style crust.
-
Unsalted Butter, Melted (½ cup): Binds the crust and gives it a rich, buttery flavor.
-
Granulated Sugar (¼ cup): Adds just the right amount of sweetness to the crust.
-
Salt (¼ teaspoon): Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
For the Chocolate Silk Filling:
-
Semisweet Chocolate Chips (1 cup): Melted into the filling for that classic French silk richness.
-
Unsalted Butter, Softened (½ cup): Adds creaminess and structure.
-
Granulated Sugar (¾ cup): Sweetens the filling and helps whip air into it.
-
Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Rounds out the chocolate flavor with warmth.
-
Eggs (3 large): Whipped in one at a time to create the silky texture—be sure to beat well after each.
For the Whipped Cream Topping:
-
Heavy Whipping Cream (1 cup): Light, fluffy contrast to the rich filling.
-
Powdered Sugar (2 tbsp): Sweetens and stabilizes the whipped cream.
Tips and Tricks:
-
Use pasteurized eggs if you’re concerned about consuming raw eggs.
-
Cool the chocolate before adding it to avoid melting the butter mixture.
-
For a firmer crust, let it cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before topping.
-
Add chocolate curls or grated chocolate on top for an elegant finish.
Variations and Customizations:
-
Add a cookie crust: Use crushed Oreos or graham crackers instead of the flour crust for a no-bake base.
-
Try flavored chocolate: Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even flavored baking chips (like espresso or mint).
-
Infuse liqueur: Add a splash of Irish cream or coffee liqueur to the chocolate filling.
-
Top with berries: Add fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries before serving for a fruity contrast.
Pairing Suggestions:
-
Serve with a hot latte or espresso
-
Enjoy with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce
Storage Instructions:
-
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
-
Freezer: Freeze tightly wrapped bars for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
-
Do not leave out at room temp for more than 1 hour due to the cream topping.
Popular Questions
Are the eggs in French Silk Pie raw?
Yes, but they are beaten for several minutes to incorporate air and smoothness. Use pasteurized eggs if preferred.
Advertisements
Can I make French Silk Pie Bars in advance?
Absolutely! They’re best made a day ahead to give the layers time to firm up.
How do I get clean slices?
Chill the bars well and use a sharp knife, wiping between each cut.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Double everything and use a 9×13-inch pan, adjusting the crust baking time as needed.
Advertisements
French Silk Pie Bars
- Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes (includes chilling time)
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
Description
French Silk Pie Bars – All the velvety luxury of French silk pie, but in effortless bar form! A buttery shortbread base supports layers of silky chocolate custard and cloud-like whipped cream—no slicing required. Elegant, indulgent, and guaranteed to disappear fast.
Ingredients
-
1 cup all-purpose flour
-
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
-
¼ cup granulated sugar
-
¼ teaspoon salt
-
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
-
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
-
¾ cup granulated sugar
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-
3 large eggs
-
1 cup heavy whipping cream
-
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Crust
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
-
In a mixing bowl, stir together the flour, melted butter, sugar, and salt until a soft dough forms.
-
Press the dough evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking pan.
-
Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until lightly golden.
-
Let the crust cool completely before adding the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Filling
-
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. Let cool slightly.
-
In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy — about 3 minutes.
-
Add the cooled chocolate and vanilla extract, beating until fully combined.
-
Add the eggs one at a time, beating for 3 full minutes after each egg. This creates the signature light and silky texture.
-
Spread the chocolate filling evenly over the cooled crust.
Step 3: Whip and Top
-
In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
-
Gently spread the whipped cream over the chocolate layer.
-
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
Step 4: Slice and Serve
Once fully set, cut into bars with a sharp knife. Wipe between cuts for clean edges. Serve chilled.
Advertisements
Notes
-
French Silk Pie Bars are rich and decadent—cut small slices!
-
This recipe is ideal for celebrations, but easy enough for casual gatherings.
-
If using a metal pan, line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15–18 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Advertisements