Rich, smooth, and irresistibly indulgent, French Silk Slab Pie takes the classic French silk pie you love and turns it into a crowd-friendly dessert perfect for holidays, potlucks, birthdays, and family gatherings. With a crisp chocolate cookie crust, a silky chocolate filling, and a generous layer of fluffy whipped cream, this slab pie delivers bakery-style decadence in every slice.
Unlike traditional round pies, a slab pie is baked in a sheet pan, making it ideal for feeding a crowd while keeping clean slices and a professional presentation. If you’re searching for a luxury chocolate dessert recipe, a make-ahead holiday pie, or a high-impact party dessert, this French Silk Slab Pie checks every box.
Ingredients
Chocolate Cookie Crust
Chocolate sandwich cookies (such as Oreos), finely crushed – 4 cups
Unsalted butter, melted – ¾ cup
French Silk Filling
Unsalted butter, softened – 1½ cups
Granulated sugar – 1½ cups
Unsweetened cocoa powder – ¾ cup
Vanilla extract – 1 tablespoon
Salt – ½ teaspoon
Large eggs – 6 (room temperature)
Whipped Cream Topping
Heavy whipping cream – 3 cups
Powdered sugar – ½ cup
Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon
Optional garnish:
Chocolate curls, chocolate shavings, or cocoa powder for dusting
Instructions
Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a rimmed 10×15-inch baking sheet with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang for easy removal.
In a large bowl, mix the crushed chocolate cookies with the melted butter until evenly coated and resembling wet sand. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, using the bottom of a measuring cup to compact it well.
Bake the crust for 10–12 minutes, then remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely before adding the filling.
Make the French Silk Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together on medium speed for 3–4 minutes until light, pale, and fluffy. This step is essential for achieving the signature silky texture.
Add the cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt, mixing until fully incorporated and smooth.
With the mixer running on low, add the eggs one at a time, beating for 2–3 minutes after each addition. The mixture should become glossy, airy, and luxuriously smooth. Proper mixing ensures the eggs are fully incorporated and safe in texture.
Spread the chocolate filling evenly over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with an offset spatula. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set.
Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping
In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat.
Spread or pipe the whipped cream evenly over the chilled chocolate filling. For a bakery-style finish, use decorative piping or swirl patterns.
Garnish and Chill
Finish with chocolate curls, shaved chocolate, or a light dusting of cocoa powder. Refrigerate the slab pie for at least 1 additional hour before slicing for clean, sharp edges.
Serving Suggestions
Slice into squares or rectangles for easy serving
Serve well chilled for the best texture and flavor
Perfect for holiday dessert tables, weddings, potlucks, and celebrations
Pairs beautifully with coffee, espresso, or cold milk
Storage Tips
Store French Silk Slab Pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
For best results, add whipped cream the day of serving if making ahead.
Slices can be frozen without whipped topping for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Flavor Variations
Dark Chocolate Silk: Use dark cocoa powder for deeper chocolate flavor
Mint Chocolate: Add ½ teaspoon peppermint extract to the filling
Mocha Silk: Dissolve 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder into the cocoa
Peanut Butter Chocolate: Swirl softened peanut butter into the filling before chilling
Why French Silk Slab Pie Is a Crowd Favorite
This dessert combines classic French silk pie elegance with the convenience of a sheet-pan dessert. The ultra-smooth chocolate filling contrasts perfectly with the crisp cookie crust and airy whipped topping, creating a high-end dessert experience without complicated baking techniques.
Because it’s easy to slice, transport, and store, French Silk Slab Pie is ideal for large gatherings, holiday entertaining, and make-ahead dessert planning—making it a reliable favorite for both home bakers and seasoned hosts.
Conclusion
French Silk Slab Pie is proof that timeless desserts can be reimagined for modern entertaining. Rich, creamy, and undeniably impressive, this recipe delivers maximum chocolate indulgence with minimal stress. Once you serve it, expect empty plates, glowing compliments, and requests for the recipe every single time.
Why add sugar to whipped cream????? Inquiring minds want to know.