A crunchy, chocolate cookie crust, thick chocolate pudding, and a light chocolate mousse is an easy, no-bake pie that is as perfect for a summer afternoon, as it is for a non-traditional Thanksgiving dessert. Really, any time is the right time to enjoy this extra chocolaty treat. While impressive with multiple layers, the only thing you have to be able to do is stir and pour–with all of the ingredients being store bought! Plus, this Gluten & Dairy-free Triple Chocolate Pie is free of: gluten, dairy, egg, peanut & tree nuts. It’s also vegan too!)
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I’ll admit it–but don’t hate me for it: I’ve never been that big of a fan of pie. So–come Thanksgiving I was never super excited for the dessert part. I just don’t care for baked fruit. It’s mushy and unappealing to me. That was–until I was an adult and realized there are SO many more options other than apple, cherry & pumpkin! Yay to adulting and getting to decide what pies to serve at your own Thanksgiving. Boo to having to do all the dishes.
Which is why you haven’t seen many traditional pies on my site. But, I LOVE anything that resembles candy–so make them cream pies, or any kind of pie other than pure fruit and I’m ALL about it.
I’ve been dreaming of this pie for a good year. I had it in my head and was just waiting for November to make it–so you too could have an nontraditional pie for Thanksgiving if you wished. I made it to October 30–does that count?? Do you know who also couldn’t wait? My middle child. That pie sitting in the fridge waiting to be photographed just HAD to be taste-tested. I thought about editing out his little finger print on top–but ain’t that real life? So enjoy–as he did too!
I love this pie because of its simplicity. That’s another thing I’ve never loved about pies–they are a lot of work! A crust from scratch, a filling and a long time in the oven, AND THEN cooling. PHEW!
This is mostly store bought ingredients. If you can heat something, stir and pour–you’re good to go! And honestly, the little whipped cream swirls can be done away with if you’re in a hurry. Because Thanksgiving is hard enough! All of the many side dishes take my time and effort. By the time I get to making desserts–I am pooped!
I knew this pie would be great–because it was based on two of my favorite recipes. I stole the chocolate cookie crust from this frozen raspberry pie, and then I stole this dairy-free chocolate pudding recipe.
You can either fully freeze this, and it’s more like an ice cream pie. Or, be sure to keep it in the fridge and chilled for a nice cool pie that is more soft set. Either way–you can’t go wrong and I doubt any guests will complain. If they do, throw them out of your house. You don’t need that kind of negativity in your life. Ha!
I’ll be hosting Thanksgiving at my house this year and I’m already excited to make this allergy-friendly pie again. Even though my sister and brother-in-law don’t have any food allergies, Celiac or restrictions, I know they’ll love this gluten & dairy-free triple chocolate pie. I hope you do too! I also posted some of my other favorite nontraditional pies below. Forget pumpkin and apple and really wow your guests with these fun options!
What if I don’t need this triple chocolate pie to be gluten free?
So, you need a pie that’s dairy, egg and nut free, but you can have wheat and gluten. That’s great! Simply use regular oreos instead of the allergy friendly cookies.
What if I don’t need this triple chocolate pie to be dairy free?
If you don’t have a dairy allergy or lactose intolerance, then go ahead and use regular milk in the Jell-O pudding. Make it according to the box mix directions (you have to use less milk if you’re using a milk substitute so ignore my directions.) Use the same about of butter instead of coconut oil. Then, simply use regular Cool Whip instead of Coco Whip. Simple!
What is Coco Whip?
This post is not sponsored, but finding Coco Whip has changed the ability I have to make desserts. I am so grateful to the company So Delicious. If you used to use Cool Whip, then this is the perfect dairy-free replacement. It comes in a tub, just like Cool Whip, and is whipped coconut cream that is light and frothy and delicious and perfect for going inside recipes as well as garnishing them.
Just like when using Cool Whip, you’ll need to thaw Coco Whip before using it, otherwise it’s too frozen to stir or do much with. I’d set it in my fridge the day before to be just right.
So, to those who have coconut allergies, I’m sorry, but coco whip is made out of coconuts. I have yet to find another dairy-free creamer that yields similar results. Coco Whip is a fabulous replacement for vegans and those with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance.
Where can I find Coco Whip?
I have found Coco Whip at all of the regular health food stores: Whole Foods, Sprouts, Good Earth and sometimes on Amazon (it’s a harder product to sell online since it needs to be refrigerated). Coco Whip is located in the freezer section.
Looking for more dairy-free pies?
Yes, all of my recipes on my site are completely dairy free due to my son’s dairy allergy. All of my pies are also gluten free. However, if you don’t need them to be gluten free, you can simply swap out regular flour instead. Here are some of our favorite allergy friendly pies:
- No Bake Strawberry Jello Pie
- Pumpkin Mousse Pie
- Frozen Raspberry Pie
- Lemon Cream Pie Bars
- Peach Pie
- Pumpkin Crumble Pie
- Cherry Cobbler
- Strawberry Chocolate Galette
- Black Bottom Oatmeal Pie
- Peppermint Pie
Do I have any more Thanksgiving recipes?
Yes, I do! I love food, so a holiday all about food should still be enjoyed whether you have food restrictions or not. I have an ENTIRE THANKSGIVING MENU that is allergy friendly. I’ve got everything from a turkey, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, sides, and pies. I hope it helps you figure out exactly what to serve and have a lovely holiday.
ALLERGY-FRIENDLY COOKIE CRUST TIPS:
Side note on the cookies I used for the crust: I’ve found two types of gluten-free “oreo” type of cookies: Glutino & Kinnikinick. We are able to do soy (hence why this recipe isn’t top-8-free) and I’ve unfortunately never found an oreo-type cookie that is free of the top 8 allergens. If you cannot do soy–I’d recommend another type of chocolate based crunchy cookie, like Crunchy Double Chocolate Cookies by Enjoy Life. A note on the Glutino though: Be warned that the Glutino cookies do have a may contain statement that reads: “May contain milk, eggs, peanut and tree nuts“. I personally called their number and according to the person I talked to they put that statement since the facility uses those ingredients and that the production line used for making these cookies have rigorous protocols where they will completely stop production and clean the machines for hours and test it before starting a new run, so I felt OK eating the cookies. Please, feel free to call them yourself, make sure you get the same response and eat at your own discretion and level of your own food allergies. Please note I’ve only ever tried it with the Glutino in this recipe, because they are the ones found in the store closest to me. If you try something else, please leave it in the comments below to help future readers!
Have a safe, inclusive Thanksgiving no matter your dietary needs everyone!
Gluten & Dairy-free Triple Chocolate Pie (Gluten, dairy, egg, peanut & tree nut free; vegan)
A crunchy, chocolate cookie crust, thick chocolate pudding, and a light chocolate mousse is an easy, no-bake pie that is as perfect for a summer afternoon, as it is for a non-traditional Thanksgiving dessert. Really, any time is the right time to enjoy this extra chocolaty treat. While impressive with multiple layers, the only thing you have to be able to do is stir and pour--with all of the ingredients being store bought! Plus, this Gluten & Dairy-free Triple Chocolate Pie is free of: gluten, dairy, egg, peanut & tree nuts. It's also vegan too!)
Ingredients
- CHOCOLATE COOKIE CRUST:
- 1 package allergy appropriate chocolate cookies (approx 21 cookies) *see the post above for options
- 4 Tablespoons softened coconut oil (or vegan butter)
- CHOCOLATE PUDDING LAYER:
- Two 3.4-oz chocolate cook and serve Jello pudding
- 2 cups rice milk
- CHOCOLATE MOUSSE LAYER:
- 2 packages of Coco Whip (1 for the recipe, one for decorative swirls)
- 3-4 Tablespoons of Hershey's chocolate syrup
- Toppings: allergy-friendly chocolate
- KITCHEN TOOLS NEEDED:
- 9 inch spring form pan
Instructions
*IMPORTANT: You'll want to move your Coco Whip from the freezer to the fridge either a day or several hours before starting. It will need to be soft enough to stir into the recipe.*
When ready to begin, using a food processor, crush the cookies and coconut oil until they form a wet sand texture. Press that into a greased springform pan covering the bottom and up the sides slightly. Place this in the freezer to harden.
Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan over medium heat, add your two boxes of jello pudding and your rice milk. Whisk that as it comes to a boil. Once it's boiling take it off the heat to cool. It should thicken considerably. If it's too thick, you can thin it out with additional rice milk. Remember though--you want it to be nice and sturdy so it doesn't spill out when you cut the pie.
In a separate bowl, place one package of Coco Whip. Add the Hershey's syrup (which is surprisingly dairy-free!) and fold them to combine. Don't beat or stir it too vigorously as you want the coco whip to retain some of it's airiness. Add as much syrup as you like. I only did 3 Tablespoons, as this dessert is already quite chocolaty, but I still wanted some color and slight flavor to it.
Once the pudding has cooled, pour it onto the pie crust. Allow this to chill in the fridge until it feels set.
Once it is set, add the chocolate coco whip on top. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Place in the fridge or freezer until you're ready to serve.
Garnish with additional coco whip (either as it's own layer or with swirls on the edges.)
If you wish, take some allergy-friendly chocolate, and using a fine grater, grate over the edges of the pie for a fun look.
Keep pie refrigerated or frozen (depending on how cold and firm you want it) whenever you're not serving it.
ENJOY!
Alternatively, you could use homemade whipped vegan cream. I would recommend something like Silk's or Country Crock and use two of them.
Notes
Lookin for more pies, sides or even a turkey recipe to complete your holiday? Check out my ENTIRE Thanksgiving menu!
*Our allergies, while severe and that get re-tested frequently, are such that we can go strictly by what's on the label. I do not call companies to see what things are derived from, or call manufacturers to see about potential cross contact. If your allergies require you to do so, please do your own homework. I cannot assure you of any ingredient's safety, only you can do that. I simply share what works for our family
**If you are going to feed this to someone with food allergies, and you yourself do not have food allergies, I HIGHLY recommend having them check every single brand and ingredient you are using, to ensure they're OK with each part of the recipe. And, to make sure you've talked to them about how to avoid cross contamination in your kitchen.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 8 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 359Total Fat: 21gSaturated Fat: 13gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 48mgSodium: 124mgCarbohydrates: 38gFiber: 2gSugar: 30gProtein: 4g
DON’T FORGET TO PIN IT, SO YOU DON’T LOSE IT! ALSO, CHECK OUT MY OTHER ALLERGY-FRIENDLY PINTEREST BOARDS!
Looking for other fun, non-traditional (yet allergy-friendly!) pies to serve at Thanksgiving? Here are my other favorites:
Frozen Raspberry Pie (Gluten, dairy, egg, peanut & tree nut free; vegan)
Strawberry Chocolate Galette (Gluten, dairy, egg, soy, peanut & tree nut free; top-8-free; vegan)
Allergy-friendly Peach Pie (Gluten, dairy, egg, soy, peanut & tree nut free; top-8-free)
Gluten-free Vegan Lemon Pie Bars (Gluten, dairy, egg, peanut & tree nut free)
Hi! I’m Megan, a mom to four kids, two with multiple food allergies & one with EOE. I’m a published cookbook author that constantly tweaks recipes to make them allergy friendly–it’s an addiction. I share every recipe & tip with the hope that they help you as you manage your food allergies & dietary restrictions. You can still be awesome, even with food allergies!
Liz
Planning to make this for a Friendsgiving this weekend! Looking for clarification – if using an Oreo type cookie, I assume you take the frosting out and just mix the cookie part with the coconut oil for the crust?
Megan Lavin
No, most of the time (even in others recipes) you put the entire cookie. Have a good Friendsgiving
Rachael Mulder
I never write reviews but this was SO GOOD that I had to!!! I was feeling deflated after attempting a white cake for my son’s birthday that did not turn out good. I redeemed myself with this pie!!! It wasn’t very much work and it was sooo good. Even better 2-3 days later once it’s really set. I will be making this over and over again! Thank you Megan!!!!
Megan Lavin
That’s so nice of you to take the time to tell me. I so appreciate it!
Rachael
Hi Megan! I made this pie again to have on New Years Eve and I don’t think I cooked the pudding long enough. It’s been in the fridge overnight and it’s still not as thick as my last one was. Do you think it will continue to harden or probably not at this point? What do you think I should do? I might just have to make another one! Thank you!
By the way, this is Rachael Mulder, we talked a little bit years ago because we both had children with EoE! I don’t remember who was our mutual friend who introduced us to each other. Anyway, I hope you are well and I so appreciate your recipes!
Megan Lavin
Hi Rachael! I thought that was you. I totally remember you. If it hasn’t set to where you want after a few hours in the fridge, then that is probably as hard as it will set. I’m sorry! Yes, make sure to cook it on the stove until it’s as thick as you want it. Should still taste good! Happy New Year.
Marianne
This recipe is AMAZING. We have made it for 2 Thanksgivings and 1 Christmas now, and it will be a holiday staple for many years to come! Comes together super easy, no baking, and delicious! We use So Delicious Coco Whip, which is sold at Wal-Mart and our local grocery store.
Angel
We made this pie for Thanksgiving, and it was a huge hit with everyone! I thought we’d have plenty leftover, but even the allergy eating family members devoured it. We’ll definitely be making it again soon.
Megan Lavin
That’s so great to hear. Thank you Angel!
Victoria
My son devoured this pie. I had no idea that powdered pudding mix and rice milk tasted so, for lack of a better word, normal! It was one of our Thanksgiving desserts and so easy to make. Thank you!
Tracy
Holy cow. Just made this and it was amazing. Son just diagnosed with celiac, so all this is new to us. This dessert alone makes me feel like we can handle it after all. Lol. Thank you for sharing it. Seriously soooooo good!!
Megan Lavin
Thanks Tracy! I’m so glad that you were both able to enjoy it. Hope you had a wonderful holiday.
John
We are bummed that So Delicious reformulated many of their items to include Pea Protein. CocoWhip is a no go for us. ?
Victoria
Try TruWhip! I saw it in the store the other day, no pea protein 🙂
Megan Lavin
Thanks for the tip Victoria!
Melissa
I am going to try tru whip too. I don’t know about the purple tub but the green vegan tub of tru whip does have pea protein. Have you tried this with the actual gf Oreo? What about added crushed candy cane for a Christmas theme?
Megan Lavin
I’m trying out the gluten free Oreos this Thanksgiving. So far, they look like they work great. And, crushed candy cane is never a bad idea. Happy Thanksgiving.
Angie
This pie is amazing! I made it for Thanksgiving, as well as the Pumpkin Mousse Pie on your website. They were both absolutely delicious! It was the first time I had pie options that everyone in my family could safely eat. We devoured the pies, and my kids have requested them over & over. Thanks for these truly awesome recipes, Meg!
Anne
My rice milk and Jello pudding didn’t thicken – what did I do wrong?
I heated in a saucepan whisking periodically until it came to a boil. Then put it on the counter to cool. Then put it in the pie shell over night.
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Did you buy the correct kind, “cook and serve”? Before I take it off the stove top, I stir until it’s as thick as I want it. Perhaps you took it off the heat too soon. It’s hard to say as I wasn’t there.
Anne
Perhaps I took it off too early. I thought I was supposed to take it off when it began to boil.. I did use the cook & serve. I put it in the freezer & will see if an iced version works.
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Sounds like it. I’m sorry for the confusion. Hope it works iced.
Larraine
If I can’t find coco whip is there another option. I am not sure I can find Tru whip either 😟
Megan Lavin
Hi! You can use a can of coconut cream or full fat coconut milk, to make a homemade coconut whipped cream. Here’s how to do it: https://allergyawesomeness.com/double-apricot-jello-with-whipped-coconut-cream-gf-df-egg-soy-peanuttree-nut-free-top-8-free/
Nicole
Do you thaw the cool whip before?
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Hi Nicole. Yes, you want it thawed, so that it’s stir-able. Enjoy 🙂
mona
I am so happy to find your site. I have had a child with multiple food allergies. We found out when he was a baby, its been 24 years now. Still with most of them. Unfortunately, coconut is one of them. Do you have a replacement for the coco whip? soy based would be great
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Hi Mona. Great to have you here. I’m sorry, coconut is a tough one when it comes to dairy-free baking. I’ve never found a commercially made soy coconut cream. You could try this recipe, but as I haven’t tested it before, I can’t guarantee the results of the overall pie. https://www.godairyfree.org/recipes/cream-and-butter-subs/soy-whipped-cream-vegan-gluten-free
Angela
Can I make this in a regular pie dish? I don’t have a springform pan.
Megan Lavin
Yes!
Ann Marie
Is Coco Whip a brand? Where in the supermarket would you find it?
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Ann, Yes, it’s a brand of whipped coconut cream. It’s made by So Delicious. I find it at any health store, in the frozen section.
Sherry
Can you substitute oat milk for the rice milk?
Megan Lavin
Yes, that should work! Enjoy Sherry
Suresh Pakala
Hi,
Hope you had a great Thanksgiving. I made this for my son who is allergic to dairy, eggs and tree nuts. He is very picky about his cakes and pies. He loved it and so did my wife and daughter. I could not find the cookies for the pie crust in time so I used the Oreo pie crust which was great because my kids love Oreos. My wife posted a pic of the pie on Facebook.?
Thanks for sharing your recipes and experiences.
Cheers!!!
Suresh
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Hi Suresh! Thanks so much for taking the time to come back and let me know. That makes me so happy. I’m so glad that it helped your son have a good Thanksgiving. What a good dad to make that for him. And yes, the Oreo pre-made crust is a fabulous ideas if you can do wheat. Happy holidays 🙂
Alissa
I found a pudding mix that does not have any milk in it it’s Hershey brand dark chocolate pudding. Just thought I’d share this little bit of information. And it’s really good too.
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Alissa–that’s great to know! I’m so glad you told me. I don’t often do dark chocolate items, so I’ll be sure to go find it.
Amanda
I love the decadent layers in this pie! This will be such a great dessert to serve both my gluten and dairy free guests this holiday season, and everyone in general!
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Thanks! yes dietary restrictions or not–it’s delicious! Have fun making it 🙂
Nicole Dawson
This pie sounds amazing Megan and I love how simple it looks to make.
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Thanks! The simpler the better at busy holiday times!
Alisa Fleming
Holy decadence Megan! It’s funny how we all get hung up on using instant pudding when the cook ‘n serve is pretty darn easy and works much better dairy free.
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Seriously–cook & serve is my best friend.
Amanda
When I make this, I’ll have to hide a piece for myself before my husband and his friends see it! This sounds outrageously good!
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Haha–I’ve def hid food before! 🙂
Chrystal @ Gluten-Free Palate
I love that there are three amazing layers of chocolate. This pie looks divine!
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Thank you! Yes, divine it was 🙂
Kristina
I kind of sat here in a trance for several minutes, looking at these photos. I am saving this to make soon – cannot WAIT.
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Haha–that’s the best comment ever. I hope you enjoy it.
Sharon
Hahaha! Your child did make a cute little dent during his taste test. I love it!
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He’s such a stinker! Glad you enjoyed it.