Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Decadent Take 5 Candy Bar Dream Pie?
It is a dessert that captures the flavor profile of a Take 5 candy bar, featuring a crunchy pretzel crust, creamy peanut butter, caramel, and chocolate.
What ingredients are in the pretzel crust?
The crust consists of 4 ounces of finely ground pretzel sticks, 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt.
At what temperature should the oven be preheated?
The oven should be preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
How long does the pretzel crust bake?
The crust should be baked for 10 minutes.
How long must the crust chill after baking?
The crust needs to chill in the refrigerator for approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour until it is firm.
What is needed to make the caramel sauce?
You will need 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup water, 2 tablespoons corn syrup, 3/4 cup warmed heavy cream, and 2 tablespoons cubed unsalted butter.
How do I prevent sugar crystallization in the caramel?
Dip a pastry brush in water and gently brush down the sides of the pot while the sugar mixture is cooking.
How long does the sugar mixture cook to become caramel?
It takes about 10 minutes without stirring for the mixture to develop a rich caramel color.
What should I be careful of when adding heavy cream to the caramel?
The mixture may bubble up significantly when the cream is added, so whisk carefully.
What should I do if the caramel seizes?
Return the pan to low heat and stir until the seized caramel melts back down into a smooth sauce.
When do I add butter to the caramel?
The cubed unsalted butter should be stirred in once the caramel sauce is smooth and removed from the heat.
How is the peanut butter layer prepared?
Spread 1/2 cup of warmed creamy peanut butter evenly across the cooled pretzel crust.
How long does the peanut butter layer need to set?
Place the pie in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes to allow the peanut butter layer to set.
How much caramel sauce is drizzled over the peanut butter?
The recipe calls for 1/3 cup of the prepared warm caramel sauce to be drizzled over the peanut butter layer.
What kind of peanuts are used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of salted peanuts that have been coarsely chopped.
When are the peanuts added to the pie?
Sprinkle the chopped peanuts evenly over the caramel layer after it has been spread.
Is additional chilling required before adding the chocolate?
If needed, the pie can be chilled for another 10 minutes to ensure the peanut butter and caramel layers are set.
What type of chocolate is used for the top layer?
One 10-ounce bag of melted bittersweet chocolate chips is used, though milk chocolate can be substituted.
How long does the final chocolate layer take to firm up?
The completed pie should chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes until the chocolate firms up.
Can this pie be stored at room temperature?
Yes, once the chocolate has set, the pie can be kept at room temperature until ready to serve.
How many ingredients are used in total?
There are 13 ingredients used in this recipe.
Does this pie have a salty and sweet profile?
Yes, the combination of pretzel crust, salted peanuts, and sweet caramel and chocolate creates a salty-sweet balance.
How should I grind the pretzel sticks?
The pretzel sticks should be ground finely using a food processor or a blender.
What size pie pan is recommended?
The recipe is designed for a 9-inch pie pan.
Should the heavy cream be cold when added to the caramel?
No, the heavy cream should be warmed before it is whisked into the sugar mixture.
Is the peanut butter used crunchy or creamy?
The recipe specifies using creamy peanut butter.
Why is corn syrup used in the caramel?
Corn syrup helps prevent the sugar from crystallizing and ensures a smooth caramel texture.
How do I apply the caramel over the peanut butter?
Drizzle it over the layer and gently spread it with the back of a spoon.
Can I substitute the bittersweet chocolate?
Yes, milk chocolate can be used as a substitute for bittersweet chocolate chips.
Is this pie suitable for a party?
Yes, it is described as an eye-catching centerpiece that is sure to impress guests at any gathering.