Have you ever tried a dessert so easy to make that it will completely surprise you? Meet our No-Gelatin Dutch Pie (Torta Holandesa)! This recipe is the perfect treat to whip up for Mother’s Day, or any special occasion when you want to indulge in something irresistibly sweet and creamy.
Ingredients:
- 1 package (approx. 7 oz) Maria cookies or plain tea biscuits
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (for the filling)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for the filling)
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 5 oz white chocolate, melted
- 1 ¼ cups heavy whipping cream, whipped
- 3.5 oz semi-sweet chocolate
- ½ cup heavy cream (for the ganache)
- *Optional: Chocolate-covered cookies (like Pirouettes or similar) for the sides
How to Make Dutch Pie:
- Pulse the Maria cookies in a food processor until they form fine crumbs.
- Mix the cookie crumbs with the melted butter until it reaches a damp sand consistency.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan.
- Arrange the chocolate-covered cookies around the inner edge of the pan, chocolate side facing out.
- Place in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.
- In a stand mixer, beat the softened butter and sugar until creamy.
- Add the sweetened condensed milk (and a splash of vanilla extract if desired), beating until smooth.
- Fold in the melted white chocolate.
- Gently fold in the whipped heavy cream until well combined.
- Pour the filling over the cookie base and refrigerate for about 20 minutes.
- Prepare the ganache by melting the semi-sweet chocolate with the heavy cream in the microwave in 30-second intervals.
- Pour the ganache over the pie and refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving.
Pro Tip:
Make sure your heavy cream is very cold before whipping to achieve the best consistency. Letting the pie set for a few hours, or even overnight, ensures it is firm and develops the best flavor.
Prep Time and Servings:
Total preparation time is approximately 4 hours, including refrigeration. This recipe makes one medium-sized pie, perfect for serving 8 to 10 people.
A Fun Fact:
Although it is called “Dutch Pie,” this dessert actually originated in Brazil in the 1980s. Local chefs created it as a tribute to European desserts, resulting in this iconic, beloved Brazilian treat featuring cookies, creamy filling, and a rich chocolate ganache.
Now that you have the secrets to making this delicious No-Gelatin Dutch Pie, it’s time to get into the kitchen and surprise your mom, family, and friends! Enjoy every bite of this special dessert made with love.