French Silk Pie Bars are rich, creamy, and irresistibly smooth. They combine a buttery crust with a silky chocolate filling that melts in your mouth. These bars are perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual treats at home. With simple steps and delicious results, you’ll love making and sharing them!
Benefits of This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: The steps are simple and easy to follow.
- Rich and Creamy: The smooth chocolate filling offers a luxurious, silky texture.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a party or a cozy night in, they’re always a hit.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare them in advance and chill overnight.
- Customizable: Add toppings like whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or fresh berries.
Cautions
- Use Pasteurized Eggs: The eggs are raw, so use pasteurized ones to avoid health risks.
- Cool the Crust Completely: A warm crust can cause the filling to melt and lose shape.
- Don’t Overmix Whipped Cream: Overmixing can deflate the filling, making it less airy.
- Chill Properly: The bars need enough time in the fridge to set properly.
- Avoid Hot Chocolate in Filling: Let the chocolate cool slightly before mixing to prevent a greasy texture.
Read more : Sticky Toffee Pudding Thumbprints
History of French Silk Pie Bars
Origin of French Silk Pie
French Silk Pie, from which these bars are inspired, was first created in the 1950s. Betty Cooper entered the pie in the Pillsbury Bake-Off contest. Though it didn’t win the grand prize, its popularity soared. The silky, smooth texture gave it the name “French Silk,” though it’s an American creation.
Evolution into Bars
Over time, bakers began adapting the pie into bar form for easier serving. This Recipe became a hit at potlucks and parties because they are easier to transport and slice. The taste stayed the same, but the bar shape made it more versatile.
Cultural Significance of French Silk Pie Bars
This Recipe hold a special place in American dessert culture. They are often served during holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. Their rich, creamy texture makes them a beloved comfort food. Though inspired by French names, they showcase American creativity in adapting recipes. The bars symbolize the joy of sharing sweet treats with friends and family, turning simple ingredients into something extraordinary.
Tidbit About the Recipe
Despite the name, French Silk Pie Bars aren’t French at all! The “silk” refers to the smooth, creamy texture of the chocolate filling. The original French Silk Pie was created for a baking contest in the 1950s and became a hit, inspiring various adaptations like these easy-to-serve bars. Their rich taste and elegant look make them a favorite for holidays and special occasions. Plus, they’re surprisingly simple to make at home!
For full recipe instructions, check the original source here
Rich and Creamy French Silk Pie Bars Recipe
Description
These French Silk Pie Bars blend rich, creamy chocolate with a flaky, buttery crust. Perfect for any occasion, they offer a smooth, indulgent dessert that’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
-
Gather Ingredients: Measure out 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of brown sugar, and ½ cup of melted butter.
-
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the flour and brown sugar until evenly mixed.
-
Add Butter: Gradually pour in the melted butter while stirring with a fork. The mixture should become crumbly but hold together when pressed.
-
Press into Pan: Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Pour the crust mixture into the pan and press it firmly into an even layer using your hands or the bottom of a measuring cup.
-
Bake the Crust: Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Bake the crust for 15 minutes or until it’s lightly golden around the edges. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
2. Make the Chocolate Filling
-
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat 1 cup of softened unsalted butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar. Continue until the mixture is pale and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
-
Add Melted Chocolate: Melt 4 oz of unsweetened chocolate in the microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring in between, or use a double boiler. Let it cool slightly before adding it to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until smooth and glossy.
-
Incorporate Eggs: Crack 4 large pasteurized eggs into a small bowl. Add them one at a time to the chocolate mixture, beating on high speed for at least 2 minutes after each addition. This process makes the filling light and silky.
-
Add Vanilla: Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
3. Whip the Cream
-
Chill Equipment: Place your mixing bowl and beaters in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to help the cream whip better.
-
Whip the Cream: Pour 1 ½ cups of cold whipping cream into the chilled bowl. Beat on medium-high speed until soft peaks form.
-
Sweeten the Cream: Add 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar and continue whipping until stiff peaks form. The cream should hold its shape but still look smooth.
4. Combine Filling and Whipped Cream
-
Fold Gently: Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate filling. Add the cream in thirds, folding after each addition. This keeps the mixture airy and smooth.
-
Ensure Consistency: Fold until the mixture is uniform in color and texture, avoiding overmixing to maintain its silky lightness.
5. Assemble the Bars
-
Layer the Filling: Pour the chocolate filling over the cooled crust in the baking dish.
-
Smooth the Surface: Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the filling evenly, smoothing out the top for a clean finish.
6. Chill the Bars
-
Refrigerate: Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil. Place it in the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This helps the filling firm up for clean slicing.
-
Check for Firmness: The bars should be firm to the touch before slicing.
7. Serve and Enjoy
-
Slice into Bars: Remove from the fridge and use a sharp knife to cut into 12 equal bars. For cleaner cuts, dip the knife in hot water and wipe it between slices.
-
Optional Garnishes: Add whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or a dusting of cocoa powder for extra flair.
-
Serving Tips: Serve chilled for the best texture. These bars are perfect for parties, holidays, or just as a special treat.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 12
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 350kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 24g37%
- Saturated Fat 14g70%
- Trans Fat 0.5g
- Cholesterol 120mg40%
- Total Carbohydrate 30g10%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 22g
- Protein 4g8%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
