Monday, August 15, 2011

Creamy Butter Pie for my Mom (and dedicated to Jennie's love, Mike)

I have never met Jennifer Perillo other than on twitter! And yet, I was touched by her personal story of the sudden loss of her husband, Mike and her display of courage in the midst of pain. I learned of her and her loss when the twitter community started tweeting about her. It was touching to see the overwhelming show of love for Jennie and Mike on twitter and facebook.

While, it is obvious from Jennie's posts that she loved Mikey dearly, in her grief, she also shared an inspirational lesson about love with readers and friends! In Mike's memory and in celebration of those I love, I made this Creamy Butter Pie (peanuts substituted with other nuts and fruits due to allergies).

This pie is dedicated to my mom, who loves all things sweet! XOXOXO

Recipe (courtesy of Jennifer Perillo, modified for ingredients) Serves 4-6

Ingredients
3 ounces graham crackers
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1 ounces finely chopped chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate chips
Cashew Nuts, dried fruits for garnishing
1/4 cup heavy cream
3 ounces cream cheese
4 ounce of canned sweetened condensed milk
1/4 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp lemon juice

Method
Add the cookies to the bowl of a food processor and pulse into fine crumbs.  Combine melted butter and cookie crumbs in a small bowl, and stir with a fork to mix well.  Press mixture into the bottom and 1-inch up the sides of a 6-inch round pan.

Melt the chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave.  Pour over bottom of cookie crust and spread to the edges using an off-set spatula.  Place pan in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.

Pour the heavy cream into a bowl and beat using a stand mixer or hand mixer until stiff peaks form.  Transfer to a small bowl and store in refrigerator until ready to use.  Place the cream cheese. Beat on medium speed until light and fluffy.  Add the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract and lemon juice. Increase speed to medium and beat until all the ingredients are combined and filling is smooth.

Pour the filling into the prepared pan.  Drizzle the melted chocolate on top. Garnish with dried fruit and nuts and refrigerate overnight before serving.