Old Fashioned Chocolate Pie
There’s something undeniably comforting about a classic Old Fashioned Chocolate Pie. With its rich, creamy chocolate filling and buttery, flaky crust, this dessert brings a sense of nostalgia to every bite. Whether served as a sweet ending to a family dinner or as a show-stopping holiday treat, this pie never fails to impress. Made from scratch with simple, wholesome ingredients, this pie captures the essence of homemade goodness. If you’re a fan of traditional Southern desserts or just love a good chocolate treat, this recipe is for you!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this recipe because it’s a timeless classic that’s easy to prepare and absolutely delicious. The smooth, chocolatey custard filling is rich without being overly sweet, and it pairs perfectly with a pre-baked pie crust. With just a few simple ingredients and some stirring on the stovetop, you’ll have a decadent dessert that tastes like it came straight from Grandma’s kitchen. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for an extra indulgent touch!
The Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 9-inch pie crust (pre-baked)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large egg yolks
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the pie crust: Pre-bake your 9-inch pie crust according to package instructions or your favorite homemade recipe. Allow it to cool completely before filling.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt until well combined.
- Add the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, whole milk, and heavy cream until smooth. Gradually pour the milk mixture into the saucepan with the dry ingredients, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Cook the filling: Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, whisking continuously, until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble, about 7-10 minutes. Once the filling reaches a pudding-like consistency, remove from heat.
- Add the butter and vanilla: Stir in the unsalted butter and vanilla extract until the butter is fully melted and incorporated into the filling.
- Fill the pie crust: Pour the hot chocolate filling into the pre-baked pie crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Smooth the top.
- Chill the pie: Let the pie cool at room temperature for 10-15 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
- Serve and enjoy: Slice and serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of shaved chocolate. Enjoy this classic, homemade chocolate pie!
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Serve this pie chilled with whipped cream, a drizzle of chocolate syrup, or a dusting of cocoa powder for an elegant touch.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 4 days. For best results, cover with plastic wrap to prevent the filling from forming a skin.
Helpful Notes
- Make sure to cook the filling over medium heat and stir constantly to prevent the mixture from scorching or becoming lumpy.
- If you prefer a silkier filling, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve before pouring it into the pie crust.
- To enhance the chocolate flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon of espresso powder or a pinch of instant coffee granules to the dry ingredients.
FAQs
1. Can I use a store-bought pie crust?
Yes, a store-bought pie crust works perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure to pre-bake it according to the package instructions before filling.
2. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! This pie can be made a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
3. Can I use a different type of chocolate?
For a more intense chocolate flavor, you can substitute part of the cocoa powder with melted dark chocolate. Just reduce the amount of butter slightly.
4. How do I know when the filling is thick enough?
The filling should be thick and pudding-like, and it should coat the back of a spoon without dripping. Once it reaches this consistency, it’s ready to be poured into the pie crust.
5. Can I freeze this pie?
It’s best to enjoy this pie fresh, as freezing may alter the texture of the filling. However, you can freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
Final Thoughts
This Old Fashioned Chocolate Pie is a beloved classic that’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. With its rich, creamy filling and buttery crust, it’s the perfect way to indulge in a bit of homemade comfort. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because, this pie is sure to impress. Enjoy every delicious bite of this timeless treat!