Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie Recipe

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Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie Recipe

This Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie is a silky, rich dessert made from scratch, just like grandma used to make. With a flaky, buttery crust and a smooth, decadent chocolate custard filling, this pie is perfect for holidays, Sunday dinners, or whenever you crave a comforting, nostalgic treat.

Recipe Overview

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Chilling Time: 4 hours
  • Total Time: ~4 hours 30 minutes
  • Servings: 8 slices

Ingredients

For the Pie Crust (Use store-bought or homemade)

  • 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or refrigerated store-bought)

For the Chocolate Filling

  • 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 butter

For Topping (Optional)

  • Whipped cream or meringue
  • Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Roll out the pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan and crimp the edges.
  3. Blind bake the crust:
    • Line it with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans.
    • Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the edges are golden.
    • Remove the weights and bake for 5 more minutes until lightly crisp.
  4. Let the crust cool completely before adding the filling.

Step 2: Make the Chocolate Custard Filling

  1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks and milk until fully combined.
  3. Gradually pour the milk mixture into the saucepan with the dry ingredients, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
  4. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 8-10 minutes).
  5. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and butter until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble and Chill

  1. Pour the warm chocolate filling into the cooled pie crust.
  2. Smooth the top with a spatula and let it cool to room temperature.
  3. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to set.

Step 4: Add Toppings and Serve

  1. Once chilled, top with whipped cream or meringue.
  2. Garnish with chocolate shavings or a sprinkle of cocoa powder.
  3. Slice and enjoy this classic homemade chocolate pie.

Pro Tips for the Best Chocolate Pie

  • Stir constantly while cooking the custard to prevent lumps.
  • For a firmer pie, let it chill overnight.
  • Use Dutch-process cocoa for a deeper chocolate flavor.
  • To prevent a skin from forming, place plastic wrap directly on the custard while chilling.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 4 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze without toppings for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before serving.

Variations and Fun Twists

  • Chocolate Coconut Pie – Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top.
  • Mocha Chocolate Pie – Add ½ teaspoon espresso powder for a richer flavor.
  • Chocolate Almond Pie – Stir in ½ teaspoon almond extract for a nutty twist.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Slice, Without Toppings)

  • Calories: ~320
  • Carbs: ~45g
  • Fat: ~14g
  • Sugar: ~30g
    (Nutrition varies based on ingredients used.)

Final Thoughts

This Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie is a true Southern classic—creamy, rich, and deeply satisfying. Whether for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dessert, this homemade pie is sure to become a family favorite.

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