Description
Silky chocolate heaven awaits with this classic old fashioned chocolate pie, a nostalgic dessert that whispers comfort from grandma’s kitchen. Rich chocolate custard nestled in a flaky crust promises pure indulgence you won’t forget.
Ingredients
Scale
Chocolate Filling Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Main Ingredients:
- 4 large egg yolks
- 2 cups whole milk
Finishing Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Meringue Ingredients (Optional):
- 4 large egg whites
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pie Crust:
- 1 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions
- Craft a perfectly flaky pie crust, ensuring it’s pre-baked to a golden-brown hue to prevent a soggy bottom and create a crisp foundation for the luscious chocolate filling.
- Combine chocolate, sugar, and cornstarch in a heavy-bottomed saucepan, whisking constantly to prevent scorching and create a smooth, velvety custard base.
- Gradually introduce scalded milk into the chocolate mixture, stirring continuously to maintain a silky texture and prevent lumps from forming.
- Allow the chocolate custard to simmer gently, stirring persistently until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, indicating it has reached the perfect consistency.
- Remove the custard from heat and fold in rich egg yolks, creating a luxurious, glossy filling that will set beautifully in the pre-baked crust.
- Pour the warm chocolate mixture into the prepared pie shell, smoothing the surface with a spatula to ensure an even layer and eliminate any potential air pockets.
- For a classic presentation, top the pie with billowy meringue, carefully spreading it to the edges and creating decorative peaks that will brown beautifully under the broiler.
- Alternatively, for a lighter topping, whip fresh cream with a touch of vanilla and powdered sugar, creating a cloud-like garnish that complements the intense chocolate flavor.
- Refrigerate the pie for at least three hours, allowing the filling to set completely and the flavors to meld into a truly decadent dessert.
- For extended storage, the pie can be wrapped securely and frozen up to two months, preserving its rich, nostalgic flavor for future enjoyment.
Notes
- Swap meringue with fluffy whipped cream for a lighter topping that’s just as delicious and easier to prepare.
- Chilling the pie for at least 2-3 hours helps the filling set perfectly, creating a smooth and decadent texture that slices beautifully.
- Freeze the pie without the topping for a make-ahead dessert that can be quickly dressed up when guests arrive, making it a convenient option for busy home bakers.
- Use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate for a richer, more intense flavor that will elevate this classic dessert to new heights of deliciousness.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg