No-Bake Chocolate Cream Pie

INGREDIENTS:

For the Crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10–12 sheets of graham crackers, crushed)

¼ cup granulated sugar

6 tablespoons unsalted butter , melted

For the Chocolate Filling:

2 cups heavy whipping cream , divided

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or dark chocolate for a richer flavor)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

¼ cup powdered sugar

For the Whipped Cream Topping:

1 cup heavy whipping cream

2 tablespoons powdered sugar

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Garnishes:

Chocolate shavings

Fresh berries

Sprinkles

Crushed nuts

DIRECTIONS:

Step 1: Make the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand.

Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to smooth and compact the crust.

Chill the crust in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Filling

In a microwave-safe bowl, heat 1 cup of heavy whipping cream in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until hot but not boiling.

Add the chocolate chips to the hot cream and let them sit for 2–3 minutes to soften. Stir until smooth and fully melted.

Stir in the vanilla extract and powdered sugar until the mixture is glossy and well combined. Let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Whip the Remaining Cream

In a large mixing bowl, whip the remaining 1 cup of heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.

Gently fold the whipped cream into the cooled chocolate mixture in three parts, being careful not to deflate the cream …