Description
This Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie features a rich and creamy chocolate filling nestled in a golden, flaky pie crust. Made with simple ingredients like cocoa powder, sugar, and whole milk, the filling is cooked gently on the stovetop before being poured into a pre-baked crust and chilled to set. Topped optionally with whipped cream, this classic dessert offers nostalgic comfort with smooth texture and deep chocolate flavor, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Pie Crust
- 1 prepared pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
Chocolate Filling
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 3 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping (Optional)
- Whipped cream
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Bake Pie Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you’re using a homemade pie crust, bake it until it turns golden brown and fully set. Then set it aside to cool completely before filling.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt, ensuring they are evenly combined.
- Add Milk Gradually: Slowly whisk the whole milk into the dry ingredients in the saucepan, making sure no lumps form and the mixture is smooth.
- Prepare Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and cornstarch until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
- Combine Egg and Milk Mixtures: Slowly pour the egg yolk mixture into the milk and cocoa mixture in the saucepan, stirring constantly over medium heat to prevent curdling.
- Cook Until Thickened: Continue to cook this mixture while stirring until it thickens and begins to boil, which should take about 8 to 10 minutes.
- Add Butter and Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat, then stir in the unsalted butter and vanilla extract until the filling is smooth and glossy.
- Fill Pie Crust: Pour the warm chocolate filling into the cooled pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even surface.
- Chill to Set: Allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature, then place it in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or overnight to allow the filling to set properly.
- Serve with Optional Whipped Cream: Before serving, you may top each slice with whipped cream for an extra creamy finish.
Notes
- For best results, ensure the pie crust is fully cooled before pouring in the filling to prevent sogginess.
- Stir constantly during cooking to avoid burning or lumps in the filling.
- The pie can be made a day ahead and refrigerated to enhance flavors.
- Use whole milk for the creamiest texture; however, 2% milk can be substituted with a slight change in richness.
- Whipped cream topping is optional but adds a lovely contrast to the rich chocolate.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American