There’s nothing quite like digging into a warm slice of Hot Fudge Pie—rich, gooey, and bursting with deep chocolate flavor. This old-fashioned Southern dessert is part brownie, part molten cake, and part pie, making it one of the best comfort food recipes you’ll ever try. The fudgy texture paired with a flaky edge creates a decadent treat that satisfies every chocolate craving.

Perfect for chocolate lovers, this pie requires just a handful of pantry staples and minimal effort. It’s a quick and easy dessert for weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or when you need a crowd-pleasing party food idea. Top it with ice cream, drizzle with caramel, or enjoy it warm straight from the pan—the possibilities are endless.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple ingredients – Everything you need is likely already in your kitchen.
Quick prep time – Just 10 minutes of mixing before it goes in the oven.
Decadent and gooey – A rich chocolate dessert that melts in your mouth.
Crowd favorite – Perfect for potlucks, parties, or family dinners.
Customizable – Easy to dress up with toppings like ice cream, nuts, or whipped cream.
Comfort food classic – A timeless Southern recipe that never disappoints.

Ingredient Breakdown

Butter (1 stick, softened): Adds richness and creates a soft, tender crumb.
Sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the pie and balances the cocoa’s natural bitterness.
Eggs (2): Bind the ingredients together and help set the fudgy texture.
Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Enhances the chocolate flavor with a warm, sweet note.
Cocoa Powder (3 Tbsp): Provides the deep chocolate flavor and color.
Salt (1 tsp): Balances sweetness and intensifies the chocolate.
All-Purpose Flour (½ cup): Gives structure while keeping the pie soft and gooey.

Pro Tips

Don’t overmix the batter – Stir gently to keep the center fudgy and moist.
Use high-quality cocoa powder – The better the cocoa, the richer the flavor.
Check doneness carefully – The pie should be set on the edges but slightly soft in the middle.
Serve warm – Heat brings out the gooey texture that makes this dessert irresistible.
Add toppings immediately – Ice cream or whipped cream melts beautifully over the warm pie.

Ingredient Swaps or Variations

Nutty twist: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
Extra chocolate: Stir in ½ cup chocolate chips for more richness.
Peanut butter swirl: Add dollops of peanut butter before baking for a flavor boost.
Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
Spiced version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper for a warm kick.

Serving Suggestions

This pie is best enjoyed slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over the top. Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for extra indulgence, or sprinkle with powdered sugar for a simple finish. Pair with fresh berries for a refreshing contrast, or serve alongside a cup of coffee for a cozy after-dinner treat.

Make Ahead + Storage Tips

Make ahead: You can prepare the batter, pour it into the pie dish, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Storage: Keep leftover pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds to restore the gooey texture.
Freezing: Wrap cooled slices individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat before serving.

Cultural or Historical Notes

Hot Fudge Pie is a classic Southern dessert that bridges the gap between brownies and traditional pies. Originally popularized in the mid-20th century, it quickly became a staple for church potlucks, family reunions, and comfort food dinners. Its enduring appeal lies in its simplicity—minimal ingredients, maximum flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Simply double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan, adjusting the bake time slightly.

What’s the difference between hot fudge pie and brownies?
Hot fudge pie is softer and gooier than brownies, with a pie-like consistency that stays molten in the center.

Do I need a crust for this pie?
No crust is required—the batter itself bakes into a rich, pie-like dessert.

How do I know when it’s done?
The edges should be set while the center remains slightly soft. It will firm up a bit as it cools.

Can I add toppings before baking?
Yes, sprinkle chocolate chips, nuts, or even sea salt flakes on top before baking for added flavor and texture.

Emily