We’ve always been fans of the Chart House Mud Pie, a decadent dessert that’s captured hearts since its debut at the iconic Chart House restaurants. This American classic layers rich coffee ice cream with a crunchy Oreo crust and fudgy goodness, offering a perfect balance of textures and flavors that feels like a trip to the coast.
It’s no wonder this treat has become a go-to for special occasions, and we’re excited to share our straightforward recipe so you can whip it up at home.
Ingredients
In our Chart House Mud Pie recipe, we focus on high-quality ingredients that deliver the signature rich, creamy texture and bold coffee-chocolate flavors. We’ve curated this list in the order they’re typically used, with prep notes for precision.
- Oreo cookies: 20 cookies (about 2 cups when crushed), finely crushed to form the crunchy base that contrasts perfectly with the smooth ice cream layers.
- Unsalted butter: 1/4 cup, melted, to bind the crust and enhance its buttery richness.
- Coffee ice cream: 1 quart (or 4 cups), softened for easy spreading, providing the deep, aromatic coffee notes that define this classic dessert.
- Fudge sauce: 1 cup, homemade or store-bought, warmed slightly for a glossy, indulgent layer that adds velvety chocolate depth.
- Whipped cream: 1 cup, freshly whipped with 1 tablespoon of sugar, to top the pie with light, airy sweetness and a visual appeal.
- Chocolate shavings or chopped nuts: 1/4 cup, for garnish, offering a crisp, contrasting texture that elevates the final presentation of our Chart House Mud Pie.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our high-quality ingredients for Chart House Mud Pie, we’re excited to guide you through the simple steps to create this indulgent dessert. Follow our precise instructions to achieve a perfect balance of crunchy crust, creamy filling, and rich flavors.
Prepare the Crust
First, gather 2 cups of finely crushed Oreo cookies and 1/4 cup of melted unsalted butter. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed cookies and melted butter using a spoon until the mixture forms a moist, crumbly texture that holds together when pressed. Next, press this mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan using the back of a measuring cup for an even layer. This creates a sturdy base that provides a delightful crunch contrasting the smooth elements of our Chart House Mud Pie.
Make the Filling
Start by softening 1 quart of coffee ice cream at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes until it’s easy to spread. In a separate bowl, prepare the fudge sauce by heating 1 cup of store-bought or homemade fudge over low heat until it becomes glossy and pourable, stirring constantly to avoid scorching. Once ready, the softened ice cream offers a velvety, aromatic coffee flavor that pairs seamlessly with the warm, decadent fudge, elevating the overall richness of our Chart House Mud Pie filling.
Assemble the Pie
Spoon the softened coffee ice cream evenly over the prepared crust, smoothing it out with a spatula for a uniform layer. Drizzle the warm fudge sauce generously over the ice cream, then top with 1 cup of freshly whipped cream for a light, airy finish. For added texture, sprinkle on optional garnishes like chocolate shavings or chopped nuts as desired, ensuring each layer builds the signature indulgent profile of our Chart House Mud Pie.
Freeze the Pie
Place the assembled pie in the freezer for at least 4 hours or until fully set, covering it with plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Once frozen, the pie develops a firm yet creamy consistency that makes slicing effortless, revealing the harmonious blend of cold, coffee-infused goodness in our Chart House Mud Pie.
Tools and Equipment
To bring our Chart House Mud Pie to life with precision and ease, we rely on a selection of essential tools and equipment. These items ensure that every step—from crushing the Oreo crust to freezing the final assembly—flows smoothly and results in a perfectly textured dessert. Below, we break down the key tools, bolded for emphasis on their primary functions.
Essential Tools List
We recommend gathering the following items before starting, as they align directly with the recipe’s preparation and assembly phases:
- Food processor or large ziplock bag with rolling pin: For efficiently crushing the Oreo cookies into fine crumbs, creating a sturdy base for the crust.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To accurately measure ingredients like melted butter and fudge sauce, ensuring balanced flavors and textures.
- Mixing bowls (medium and large sizes): Ideal for combining crushed cookies with butter and for softening the coffee ice cream, allowing for easy blending without mess.
- Pie pan or 9-inch springform pan: A non-stick option works best for pressing the crust and holding the layered filling, promoting clean slicing after freezing.
- Saucepan (medium-sized): For preparing the glossy fudge sauce on the stovetop, where even heat distribution helps achieve a smooth consistency.
- Whisk or rubber spatula: To stir and fold ingredients, such as whipping the cream or mixing the fudge, for that velvety finish we love in this classic treat.
- Freezer-safe container or wrap: Essential for freezing the assembled pie for at least four hours, maintaining its firm yet creamy texture.
By using these tools, we guarantee a seamless process that highlights the rich, indulgent qualities of Chart House Mud Pie. Always opt for high-quality, durable equipment to enhance your home baking experience.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the joys of our Chart House Mud Pie is its freezer-friendly nature, allowing us to prepare it in advance for effortless entertaining. By planning ahead, we ensure the pie’s rich coffee ice cream layers and fudgy elements maintain their perfectly creamy texture and indulgent flavors, ready to impress at any gathering.
Preparing Components in Advance
We can streamline our assembly by making key elements ahead of time:
- Crust Preparation: First, crush the Oreo cookies and mix with melted unsalted butter as outlined in our earlier steps. Press the mixture into the pie pan, then cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days. This keeps the crust crisp and sturdy, preventing it from softening prematurely.
- Fudge Sauce: Cook the fudge sauce in a medium saucepan and let it cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. When ready to use, gently reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until smooth and glossy, ensuring it drizzles beautifully over the ice cream layers.
- Ice Cream Softening: Soften the coffee ice cream by letting it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes, then layer it into the crust. If preparing further in advance, we recommend not assembling yet—simply keep the softened ice cream in the freezer in a sealed container for up to 3 days to preserve its velvety smoothness.
Full Assembly and Freezing
For complete make-ahead convenience, we assemble the entire pie and freeze it:
- Layering the Pie: Spread the softened coffee ice cream over the prepared crust, drizzle with the fudge sauce, and top with freshly whipped cream and garnishes like chocolate shavings.
- Freezing Process: Wrap the assembled pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in the freezer. Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight to achieve a firm yet decadently scoopable consistency that highlights the harmonious blend of crunchy crust, creamy ice cream, and rich fudge.
- Storage Tips: Once frozen, our Chart House Mud Pie can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. Pro Tip: Label the container with the date to track freshness and avoid any last-minute surprises.
Serving After Make-Ahead
To serve, remove the pie from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes. This step ensures easy slicing while preserving the dessert’s irresistible contrast of cold, creamy ice cream against the warm fudge notes when drizzled fresh. Always use a sharp knife for clean cuts, enhancing the visual appeal and enjoyment of each serving.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing our take on the Chart House Mud Pie recipe and hope it’s become a go-to in your kitchen. It’s a simple way to bring indulgent flavors to any gathering, blending creamy textures with rich tastes that impress every time.
Remember, experimenting with garnishes lets you make it uniquely yours, so dive in and enjoy the sweet rewards.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chart House Mud Pie?
Chart House Mud Pie is a decadent dessert featuring layers of coffee ice cream on an Oreo cookie crust, topped with fudge sauce and whipped cream. It’s celebrated for its creamy texture and rich flavors, perfect for special occasions. This classic treat combines simple ingredients for a homemade indulgence.
What ingredients are needed for Chart House Mud Pie?
You’ll need finely crushed Oreo cookies, melted unsalted butter for the crust, softened coffee ice cream for the filling, fudge sauce, freshly whipped cream, and optional garnishes like chocolate shavings or chopped nuts. Focus on high-quality items for the best taste and texture.
How do you prepare the crust for Chart House Mud Pie?
Mix crushed Oreo cookies with melted butter, then press the mixture firmly into a pie pan to form a sturdy base. This creates a crunchy foundation that holds up well against the creamy layers. Chill it briefly to set before adding other components.
What are the steps to assemble Chart House Mud Pie?
Start by layering softened coffee ice cream over the prepared crust, drizzle with fudge sauce, and top with whipped cream and garnishes. Freeze the assembled pie for at least four hours to firm it up. This ensures a perfect balance of textures when sliced.
How long should Chart House Mud Pie be frozen?
Freeze the pie for at least four hours to achieve a firm yet creamy consistency, making it easy to slice. For best results, let it freeze overnight. Always thaw slightly at room temperature before serving to enhance flavors and textures.
Can Chart House Mud Pie be made ahead of time?
Yes, it’s ideal for advance preparation. The crust can be made up to two days ahead and refrigerated, while the fudge sauce lasts up to a week in the fridge. Assemble the full pie and freeze it for up to a month, thawing as needed for effortless entertaining.
What tools are required to make Chart House Mud Pie?
You’ll need a food processor or ziplock bag with a rolling pin for crushing cookies, measuring cups and spoons, mixing bowls, a pie pan, a saucepan for fudge, a whisk or spatula, and a freezer-safe container. These basics ensure smooth preparation at home.