This Italian cheese is so versatile that it can be used in both sweet and savory recipes from cheesecakes to lasagnas.

This fluffy chocolate pie is always a crowd-pleaser. You can also use low-fat and/or sugar-free ingredients to make this a less guilty indulgence.
1 1/2 cup cold milk
2 packages (4 serving size) instant chocolate pudding & pie filling mix
1 tub (12 ounces) Cool Whip, thawed
1 (6 ounce size) prepared chocolate cookie crumb crust
Add the milk to a large bowl. Whisk in the pudding mix with a wire whisk until fully incorporated and the mixture has thickened (about 1 minute).
Fold in 3 1/2 cups of the Cool Whip until the filling is a uniform color.
Spoon the filling into the cookie crust, spreading it evenly in the crust.
Place the cool whip chocolate pie in the refrigerator for 4 hours.
When the pie has set, garnish with the remaining Cool Whip. You can also garnish with grated chocolate or crushed oreo cookies if desired.
Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator.
For a richer chocolate flavor, use a dark chocolate pudding mix.
To add a hint of coffee flavor, dissolve instant coffee granules in the milk before whisking it with the pudding mix.
If desired, drizzle melted chocolate or caramel sauce over the top of the pie.
Try different types of crusts, such as a pretzel crust or a coconut crust, for fun flavor combinations.
If the pie is too soft, place it in the freezer for 30 minutes before serving to firm up the filling.
Try adding a layer of sliced bananas or strawberries between the filling and crust for a fruity twist.
Cool Whip is a brand of imitation whipped cream topping that is commonly used in desserts for its light and creamy texture.
You can try different flavors of pudding mix to create variations of this pie, such as vanilla or butterscotch.
You can use a light or low-fat version of Cool Whip to reduce the calorie content of the pie.
You can use a graham cracker crust or even a baked pastry crust as a substitute for the chocolate cookie crust.
Leftover pie should be covered and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
The pie can be made a day in advance, but it is best to add the garnish of Cool Whip and toppings just before serving.
It is not recommended to freeze this pie as the texture of the filling will be affected when thawed.
In addition to grated chocolate or crushed Oreo cookies, you can also sprinkle chopped nuts, fresh berries, or caramel sauce on top.
We haven't tested this recipe with the cook-and-serve pudding. You'd need to make a thicker pudding, using less milk called for on the box and chill it before adding the Cool Whip (if you try it, please leave a comment below as we'd love to know how it turns out!)
Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours to allow the filling to set and the flavors to meld together. You can refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before serving. After that the crust may start to get soggy.
Other milks may not let the pudding set properly. Check the pudding package or brand website for non-dairy recommendations.
Whisk: To blend the milk and instant chocolate pudding mix until the mixture thickens.
Large Bowl: To hold the milk and pudding mix while whisking. Make sure the bowl is large enough to prevent spills and allow for easy mixing.
Spoon: For transferring the filling into the chocolate cookie crumb crust. A large spoon makes it easier to spread the filling evenly.
Grater or Food Processor (optional): For garnishing the pie with grated chocolate or crushed Oreo cookies.
Fresh Raspberries: The tartness of the raspberries will cut through the rich creaminess of the pie, balancing out the sweetness for a delightful contrast.
Sea Salt: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of the pie for a salty-sweet flavor combination. The salt will enhance the chocolatey richness of the pie.
Mint Leaves: Add a sprig of fresh mint leaves on top of each slice of pie.
Wine Pairings
Merlot: The smooth, velvety texture of a Merlot pairs wonderfully with the creamy chocolate filling of this pie. Look for one with rich fruit flavors like plum and black cherry to complement the dessert.
Chardonnay: A buttery Chardonnay can provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the pie, with its creamy texture and hints of vanilla.
Moscato: If you prefer sweet wines, a Moscato with its light, floral notes and peachy flavors could be just the thing to balance out the richness of this chocolate pie.
Other Alcohol Pairings
Baileys Irish Cream: Imagine a sip of creamy, chocolatey goodness in a glass - that's Baileys for you.
Kahlua: The coffee and rum flavors in Kahlua can enhance the chocolatey goodness of this pie. Plus, the sweetness can mirror the sweetness in the dessert.
Dark Rum: If you're feeling adventurous, a dark rum with its deep, complex flavors can add a sophisticated touch to this indulgent pie. Look for one with hints of molasses and spice for a flavorful match.
Non-Alcoholic Pairings
Hot Chocolate: What's better than a chocolate pie? A chocolate pie with a side of hot chocolate!
Vanilla Milkshake: The smooth, vanilla-infused creaminess of a milkshake can complement the flavors of the chocolate pie while adding a touch of nostalgia. It's like enjoying a dessert within a dessert.
Chai Latte: Spice things up with a chai latte! The warm spices in the chai can complement the chocolatey richness of the pie.
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reviews & comments
December 13, 2013
I used one chocolate and one vanilla pudding mix to make this a very light dessert. Also used sugar free.
November 6, 2013
I like this recipe because it's a light and fluffy chocolate dessert that isn't overly sweet. Sort of like a milk chocolate mousse pie.
July 7, 2013
When I went to make this I realized I had white chocolate pudding mix not regular chocolate. It worked just fine so I'm guessing you can alter the pudding mix to change this recipe however you like. It was so easy to make that I might see what other flavors I have and make it again.