Nutella Smores Pie (Almost No Bake)
Imagine a dessert that combines the rich, velvety goodness of Nutella with the nostalgic flavors of s’mores. This Nutella Smores Pie (Almost No Bake) is an indulgent treat that captures the essence of campfire evenings while being simple enough to whip up in your own kitchen. With a delightful graham cracker crust, a luscious Nutella filling, and a creamy topping, this pie is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something sweet, this dessert will surely impress.
The beauty of this Nutella Smores Pie (Almost No Bake) lies in its ease of preparation. You won’t need to fire up the oven, making it a perfect summer dessert. Plus, the combination of ingredients creates a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. So, grab your ingredients and let’s dive into this delectable treat!
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation
This Nutella Smores Pie (Almost No Bake) deserves a permanent spot in your dessert rotation for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort yet delivering maximum flavor. Second, it caters to chocolate lovers and s’mores enthusiasts alike, making it a crowd-pleaser at parties or family gatherings. Lastly, the no-bake aspect means you can prepare it without the hassle of hot ovens, keeping your kitchen cool and your process effortless.
Ingredient Checklist
To create this Nutella Smores Pie (Almost No Bake), you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 12 whole graham cracker sheets, roughly broken
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted (1 stick)
- 2 cups Nutella
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 8 oz. mascarpone cheese, room temperature
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 15-17 marshmallows (regular size)
Equipment at a Glance
Before you start, make sure you have the following equipment handy:
- 9-inch pie dish – for assembling the pie.
- Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients.
- Electric mixer – to whip the cream and mascarpone.
- Spatula – for folding and spreading the filling.
- Kitchen torch (optional) – for toasting the marshmallows.
Nutella Smores Pie (Almost No Bake) in Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine the broken graham cracker sheets, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Set aside to firm up.
Step 2: Make the Nutella Filling
In another bowl, add the Nutella and mascarpone cheese. Using an electric mixer, beat them together until smooth and creamy. The mixture should be well combined without any lumps.
Step 3: Whip the Cream
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This will give your pie a light and airy texture. Be careful not to over-whip, as it can turn grainy.
Step 4: Combine the Mixtures
Gently fold the whipped cream into the Nutella mixture using a spatula. Be careful to maintain the lightness of the whipped cream while ensuring everything is well incorporated.
Step 5: Fill the Pie Crust
Spoon the Nutella filling into the prepared graham cracker crust. Spread it evenly with the spatula, smoothing out the top. Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
Step 6: Toast the Marshmallows
Before serving, arrange the marshmallows on top of the pie. If you have a kitchen torch, use it to toast the marshmallows until golden brown. If you don’t have a torch, you can place the pie under a broiler for a minute or two, watching closely to avoid burning.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Slice the pie into wedges and serve chilled. Each slice will offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it an unforgettable dessert experience.
Variations by Season
This Nutella Smores Pie (Almost No Bake) can be easily adapted for different seasons:
- Spring: Add fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing twist.
- Summer: Top with sliced bananas or tropical fruits for a fun variation.
- Fall: Incorporate pumpkin spice into the filling for a seasonal flavor.
- Winter: Drizzle with melted chocolate or caramel for an extra indulgent touch.
Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them
When making your Nutella Smores Pie (Almost No Bake), keep these common pitfalls in mind:
- Overmixing the whipped cream: This can lead to a grainy texture. Stop mixing as soon as stiff peaks form.
- Crust falling apart: Ensure you press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the pie dish for a stable crust.
- Burning marshmallows: If using a broiler, watch the marshmallows closely as they can burn quickly. It’s best to toast them in intervals.
- Pie not setting: Allow sufficient time in the refrigerator for the filling to firm up before serving.
Make Ahead Like a Pro
This Nutella Smores Pie (Almost No Bake) is perfect for make-ahead preparations:
- Assemble the pie a day in advance and let it chill overnight for optimal flavor and texture.
- Toast the marshmallows just before serving to maintain their texture and avoid sogginess.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for up to three days.
Quick Questions
Can I use a different type of chocolate spread?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute Nutella with any chocolate hazelnut spread or even a chocolate ganache for a different flavor profile.
Is there a gluten-free option for the crust?
Yes! You can use gluten-free graham crackers or crushed gluten-free cookies to make the crust.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure to cover the pie to keep it fresh.
Can I freeze this pie?
While the pie can be frozen, it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you must freeze it, omit the toasted marshmallows and add them just before serving.
Because You Liked This
If you enjoyed making this Nutella Smores Pie (Almost No Bake), you might also love:
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake
- No-Bake Oreo Cheesecake
- Peanut Butter Cup Brownies
- Classic Key Lime Pie
The Last Word
This Nutella Smores Pie (Almost No Bake) is a sensational dessert that’s sure to become a favorite. With its rich Nutella filling, creamy texture, and delightful graham cracker crust, it’s a treat that celebrates the joy of indulgence without the fuss of baking. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying a slice on a quiet evening, this pie is a sweet reminder of the delightful moments life has to offer. Grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to savor every bite of this heavenly dessert!
Nutella Smores Pie (Almost No Bake)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine the broken graham cracker sheets, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Set aside to firm up.
- In another bowl, add the Nutella and mascarpone cheese. Using an electric mixer, beat them together until smooth and creamy. The mixture should be well combined without any lumps.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This will give your pie a light and airy texture. Be careful not to over-whip, as it can turn grainy.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the Nutella mixture using a spatula. Be careful to maintain the lightness of the whipped cream while ensuring everything is well incorporated.
- Spoon the Nutella filling into the prepared graham cracker crust. Spread it evenly with the spatula, smoothing out the top. Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Before serving, arrange the marshmallows on top of the pie. If you have a kitchen torch, use it to toast the marshmallows until golden brown. If you don’t have a torch, you can place the pie under a broiler for a minute or two, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Slice the pie into wedges and serve chilled. Each slice will offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it an unforgettable dessert experience.
Notes
- Assemble the pie a day in advance for optimal flavor.
- Toast the marshmallows just before serving to prevent sogginess.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to three days.
