Raspberry Pie with Chocolate Shavings: A Perfectly Balanced Dessert

This Raspberry Pie with Chocolate Shavings is the ultimate dessert, offering a combination of tart raspberries and smooth, rich chocolate. The juicy raspberry filling and delicate chocolate shavings create a beautiful contrast, making this pie a treat for the eyes and the taste buds. It’s perfect for celebrations, family gatherings, or as a sweet treat to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.

Here’s a detailed guide to baking a show-stopping raspberry pie with chocolate shavings.

Ingredients for Raspberry Pie with Chocolate Shavings

This recipe yields one 9-inch pie, serving 8.

For the Pie Crust:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup cold unsalted butter (cut into cubes)
4-5 tbsp ice water

For the Raspberry Filling:

4 cups fresh raspberries (or frozen, thawed and drained)
3/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust based on sweetness preference)
3 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening)
1 tbsp lemon juice (to balance sweetness)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional, for added depth of flavor)

For the Chocolate Shavings:

1/4 cup dark chocolate (shaved or grated)

Optional Garnish:

Fresh raspberries and mint leaves for decorating

Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make Raspberry Pie with Chocolate Shavings

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
Add Butter: Add the cold butter cubes to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to blend the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Add Ice Water: Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just starts to come together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
Chill the Dough: Gather the dough into a ball, flatten it into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Roll Out and Pre-Bake the Crust

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer it to a 9-inch pie pan, pressing it gently into the pan.
Trim and Prick the Dough: Trim any excess dough and prick the bottom of the crust with a fork to prevent it from puffing up.
Blind Bake: Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dry beans. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the crust is just starting to turn golden. Allow the crust to cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Raspberry Filling

Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the raspberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract (if using). Gently toss until the raspberries are well coated and the cornstarch is evenly distributed.
Let Rest: Let the mixture sit for a few minutes, allowing the raspberries to release some juice and the cornstarch to dissolve.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake the Pie

Add Filling to Crust: Pour the raspberry filling into the pre-baked pie crust, spreading it evenly.
Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the crust is golden. If the crust edges start to brown too quickly, cover them with foil or a pie shield.
Cool the Pie: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely to set the filling.

Step 5: Prepare the Chocolate Shavings

Shave or Grate Chocolate: While the pie cools, use a vegetable peeler or fine grater to shave the dark chocolate into small curls or flakes.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with Chocolate Shavings: Once the pie is completely cool, sprinkle the chocolate shavings generously over the top. For an extra touch, add fresh raspberries and mint leaves as garnish.
Serve and Enjoy: Slice and serve the pie on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Tips and Variations for Raspberry Pie with Chocolate Shavings

Use White or Milk Chocolate: For a sweeter twist, swap dark chocolate with white or milk chocolate shavings.
Add a Hint of Spice: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg in the crust or filling can add a warming note that complements the raspberry and chocolate flavors.
Mix Berries: Try adding blueberries, blackberries, or strawberries to the raspberry filling for a mixed berry variation.
Add a Lattice Crust: If you prefer a top crust, weave a lattice pattern with strips of dough over the raspberry filling before baking.

Health Benefits of Raspberries and Dark Chocolate

Raspberries: Raspberries are packed with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins C and K, supporting immune health and digestion.
Dark Chocolate: Dark chocolate contains antioxidants and minerals like iron and magnesium, offering potential benefits for heart and brain health.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy flavor of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the tart raspberries and rich chocolate.
Add a Dollop of Whipped Cream: A little whipped cream on top of each slice adds a light, creamy contrast to the pie.
Pair with a Hot Beverage: Enjoy a slice with a cup of tea, coffee, or hot chocolate for a cozy treat.

Storage Tips

Room Temperature: Store the pie at room temperature for up to 1 day, covered with plastic wrap or a lid.
Refrigeration: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to bring back some of its original texture.
Freezing: You can freeze the pie without the chocolate shavings. Wrap it in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before adding chocolate shavings and serving.

Final Thoughts: A Perfectly Balanced, Fruity Chocolate Dessert

This Raspberry Pie with Chocolate Shavings is a crowd-pleaser that combines the tartness of fresh raspberries with the smooth richness of chocolate. It’s a unique, versatile dessert that can be adapted to suit different tastes and is perfect for any occasion. Try this simple yet indulgent recipe, and enjoy the harmony of raspberry and chocolate in every bite!

Raspberry Pie with Chocolate Shavings: A Perfectly Balanced Dessert