Description
This Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie is a rich, velvety dessert featuring a creamy chocolate custard filling inside a perfectly flaky pie crust. Topped with whipped cream or a soft meringue, it’s a nostalgic treat that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Simple to make yet indulgent, this timeless pie is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to special celebrations.
Ingredients
For the Pie:
1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup granulated sugar
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
¼ cup cornstarch (or ⅓ cup all-purpose flour for a thicker filling)
¼ teaspoon salt
3 large egg yolks
2 cups whole milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
Optional Toppings:
Whipped cream
Soft meringue
Chocolate shavings
Light dusting of cocoa powder
Instructions
- Blind-Bake the Pie Crust: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Fit the pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan, crimp the edges, and line with parchment paper. Fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 12–15 minutes until the edges are golden. Remove the weights and parchment, then bake for an additional 5 minutes to set the bottom. Transfer to a wire rack and cool completely.
- Prepare the Custard Filling: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks and milk until smooth. Gradually add the egg mixture to the dry ingredients, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Cook the Custard: Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens and begins to bubble, about 8–10 minutes. Once thickened, remove from heat.
- Finish the Filling: Stir in the vanilla extract and butter until the butter is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Assemble the Pie: Pour the custard filling into the cooled pie crust. Smooth the top with a spatula and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until set.
- Serve: Before serving, top with whipped cream, meringue, chocolate shavings, or a light dusting of cocoa powder.
Notes
- For a classic meringue topping, use egg whites and sugar, then lightly brown it in the oven.
- Add ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the custard for an extra chocolatey flavor.
- Try a nutty crust by adding crushed pecans or walnuts to the pie crust.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
