Giada's Show-Stopping Pie Recipe from Today Show 11/21/16

Imagine biting into a slice of pie that not only delights the senses but also leaves a lasting impression. That's the kind of magic Giada De Laurentiis created with her Show-Stopping Pie on the Today Show back on November 21, 2016. Today, we're exploring this divine recipe that combines the freshness of fruit with the richness of chocolate in an unforgettable way. Let's dive into how you can replicate Giada's culinary masterpiece at home!

What Makes This Pie Special?

Before we get our hands into the dough, let’s consider what makes Giada’s pie stand out:

• Unique Flavor Combination: The fusion of orange zest with chocolate and a creamy ricotta filling creates a harmonious and surprising taste sensation.
• Presentation: With its vibrant colors and professional finishing touches, this pie is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate.
• Texture: A crispy, buttery crust against the smooth ricotta filling, topped with a fresh berry medley, offers a delightful contrast in textures.

🧁 Note: Giada’s recipe uses high-quality ingredients for the best flavor, but don’t hesitate to make substitutions if needed!

Ingredients for Giada’s Show-Stopping Pie

Here’s what you’ll need to create this culinary showpiece:

• For the Crust:
  • 1 ¹⁄₂ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ¹⁄₄ cup sugar
  • ¹⁄₂ cup unsalted butter, melted
• For the Filling:
  • 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese
  • ³⁄₄ cup sugar
  • ¹⁄₂ cup heavy cream
  • 3 large eggs
  • Zest of 1 large orange
  • ¹⁄₂ teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the Topping:
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 pint fresh raspberries or a mix of berries

Step-by-Step Guide to Pie Perfection

Preparing the Crust:

Begin by making the crust:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with sugar.
3. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
4. Press this mixture evenly into a 9-inch pie dish, ensuring it’s firm and even.
5. Bake for 10 minutes, then cool completely before filling.

Making the Ricotta Filling:

Now, let’s focus on the rich, creamy filling:

1. In a food processor or large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, sugar, heavy cream, eggs, orange zest, and vanilla extract.
2. Blend or whisk until the mixture is very smooth.
3. Pour this into your prepared and cooled crust.
4. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
5. Allow the pie to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.

Creating the Chocolate Topping:

Here’s how to craft the final layer:

1. Heat the cream in a small saucepan until it just begins to simmer.
2. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips in a bowl, letting it sit for a minute before stirring until smooth.
3. Allow this ganache to cool slightly but still remain pourable.
4. Pour or spoon the ganache over the chilled ricotta filling, smoothing it with a spatula or back of a spoon.
5. Allow the ganache to set for about 30 minutes, then decorate with fresh berries.

Enhancements and Variations

While Giada’s recipe is divine on its own, here are a few enhancements:

• Add Nuts: Incorporate crushed hazelnuts or almonds into the crust for added crunch.
• Infuse with Liquor: A splash of orange liqueur in the filling can elevate the citrus flavor.
• Seasonal Twist: Use seasonal berries like blackberries in winter or mango in summer for a fresh twist.

✨ Note: Remember, dessert making is an art. Feel free to experiment with the flavors to suit your palate or occasion!

Final Touches and Serving Suggestions

Before serving, consider these final touches:

• Lightly dust with cocoa powder for an elegant look.
• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream infused with a hint of orange zest.
• Accompany with a glass of dessert wine or espresso to round out the experience.

In crafting this Show-Stopping Pie, you're not just making dessert; you're creating a conversation piece. Giada's recipe brings together simplicity and sophistication, proving that with quality ingredients and careful technique, you can produce a dessert that looks as divine as it tastes. So, embrace the experience, share it with friends or family, and enjoy every bite of this culinary masterpiece.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

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Yes, this pie can be made a day in advance. The flavors will meld together even better if you allow it to sit in the fridge overnight.

What if I’m not a fan of ricotta cheese?

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If ricotta isn’t your thing, you can substitute with mascarpone or cream cheese, though the texture and flavor will change slightly.

How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?

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To avoid a soggy crust, blind bake it for a few extra minutes before adding the filling. Also, ensure your crust is completely cooled before filling.