French silk pie bars are a delightful twist on the classic French silk pie, offering all the creamy, chocolatey goodness in a convenient bar form. This recipe is perfect for those who love the rich, smooth texture of French silk pie but want something a bit easier to serve at gatherings or as a quick treat. Originating from the Midwest, this dessert has become a staple at potlucks and family gatherings, and for good reason—it’s absolutely irresistible! Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply indulge in a little self-care with a decadent dessert, these bars are sure to hit the spot.
These French silk pie bars pair beautifully with a light, fresh salad or a simple fruit platter to balance out the richness of the chocolate. For a more indulgent experience, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk also complements these bars perfectly, making them a versatile dessert option for any occasion.
French Silk Pie Bars
Ingredients
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 large eggs
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, melted butter, granulated sugar, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
Press the dough evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking pan.
Bake the crust for 15-18 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let it cool completely.
Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. Let it cool slightly.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the melted chocolate and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and beat until well combined.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating for 3 minutes after each addition, until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Spread the chocolate filling over the cooled crust.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
Spread the whipped cream over the chocolate layer.
Refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours, or until set. Cut into squares and serve.
Variations & Tips
For a nutty twist, add a layer of chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the crust before adding the chocolate filling. If you’re a fan of mint, try adding a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the chocolate mixture for a refreshing flavor. For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend. You can also experiment with different chocolate types, such as dark chocolate or milk chocolate, to suit your taste preferences.
