Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chocolate pie is a timeless favorite because of its smooth, creamy texture and deep chocolate flavor. It’s simple to make with pantry-friendly ingredients, and it delivers a homemade richness that store-bought pies can’t match. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday or just indulging in a slice with coffee, this pie is a crowd-pleaser that never goes out of style.
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or 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
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan and crimp the edges.
- Line the crust 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 another 5 minutes.
- Let the crust cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Custard Filling
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks and milk until combined.
- Gradually whisk the milk mixture into the saucepan with dry ingredients, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 8-10 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and butter until smooth.
Step 3: Assemble & Chill
- Pour the warm chocolate filling into the cooled pie crust.
- Smooth the top with a spatula and let it cool to room temperature.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to set.
Step 4: Add Toppings & Serve!
- Once chilled, top with whipped cream or meringue.
- Garnish with chocolate shavings or a sprinkle of cocoa powder.
- Slice and serve!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8 slices
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Chilling Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: ~4 hours 30 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate Bourbon Pie: Add 1 tablespoon of bourbon to the filling for a deep, rich flavor.
- Chocolate Coconut Pie: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top for added texture.
- Mocha Chocolate Pie: Add ½ teaspoon espresso powder to intensify the chocolate flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze without toppings for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before serving.
FAQs
Can I use Dutch-process cocoa?
Yes! Dutch-process cocoa will give the pie a deeper, more intense chocolate flavor.
How can I prevent lumps in the filling?
Stir constantly while cooking the custard and slowly add the milk mixture to prevent lumps.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes! This pie sets best overnight, so making it a day in advance is ideal.
What’s the best topping for this pie?
Whipped cream, meringue, or a dusting of cocoa powder work beautifully.
Can I use a graham cracker crust instead?
Absolutely! A graham cracker crust adds a deliciously sweet and crunchy contrast.
How do I prevent a skin from forming on the filling?
Place plastic wrap directly on the surface of the custard while chilling.
Can I use a sugar substitute?
Yes, you can use a sugar substitute like erythritol for a lower-sugar version.
What can I serve with chocolate pie?
It pairs well with coffee, vanilla ice cream, or fresh berries.
Why does my filling look runny?
The filling needs to be cooked until thickened, and the pie must chill for at least 4 hours.
Can I make this pie dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute whole milk with almond or coconut milk and use a dairy-free butter alternative.
Conclusion
This Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie is a classic, rich, and creamy dessert that brings a touch of nostalgia to any gathering. With a silky chocolate custard filling and a flaky crust, it’s a foolproof favorite that will impress family and friends. Whether topped with whipped cream, meringue, or a simple dusting of cocoa powder, this pie is a must-try for chocolate lovers!
Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie
This Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie is a classic Southern dessert featuring a rich, silky chocolate custard filling in a buttery, flaky crust. Topped with whipped cream or meringue, this homemade pie is the ultimate comfort treat for holidays, special occasions, or whenever you crave a nostalgic chocolate dessert. Simple, indulgent, and absolutely delicious!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: ~4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern, American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or 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
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan and crimp the edges.
- Line the crust 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 another 5 minutes.
- Let the crust cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Custard Filling
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks and milk until combined.
- Gradually whisk the milk mixture into the saucepan with dry ingredients, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 8-10 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and butter until smooth.
Step 3: Assemble & Chill
- Pour the warm chocolate filling into the cooled pie crust.
- Smooth the top with a spatula and let it cool to room temperature.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to set.
Step 4: Add Toppings & Serve!
- Once chilled, top with whipped cream or meringue.
- Garnish with chocolate shavings or a sprinkle of cocoa powder.
- Slice and serve!
Notes
- For a deeper chocolate flavor, use Dutch-process cocoa.
- Place plastic wrap directly on the custard while chilling to prevent a skin from forming.
- This pie is best when chilled overnight for a firmer set.
