Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease an 8-inch pie plate or a similar-sized baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Remove from heat once melted.
- Add the sugar, cocoa powder, and salt to the melted butter. Stir until the ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth. Let the mixture cool for a few minutes if it’s too hot, to avoid scrambling the eggs in the next step.
- Stir in the vanilla extract. Add the eggs one at a time, stirring quickly and thoroughly after each addition.
- Add the flour and mix until it is just incorporated into the batter. Avoid overmixing to ensure a fudgy texture.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pie plate, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly soft. The pie will continue to cook and set as it cools, so be careful not to overbake if you want a gooey center.
- Let the pie cool for at least 10 minutes before serving. This dessert is best enjoyed warm.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or fresh berries on top for an extra special treat.
Notes:
- The key to the perfect Hot Fudge Pie is the baking time. The goal is to achieve a crispy top with a soft, fudgy center.
- This pie can be easily customized by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or a swirl of caramel or peanut butter into the batter before baking.
- Leftovers (if there are any!) can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for a week.
Enjoy your delicious, homemade Hot Fudge Pie!