Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie
Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie is a classic dessert that brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy dinners. This pie features a rich chocolate filling in a flaky crust, making it a favorite for chocolate lovers. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just have a sweet craving, this pie is sure to delight everyone.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie is not only fun but also satisfying. It allows you to enjoy the process of baking and the joy of sharing a homemade treat with family and friends. Plus, with simple ingredients, you can create a delicious dessert that tastes like it came from a diner or grandma’s kitchen. It’s a timeless recipe that reminds us of the comforts of home.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie
Ingredients:
- 1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups whole milk
- 4 large egg yolks, beaten
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Whipped cream or melted chocolate for garnish (optional)
Directions:
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Pre-Bake the Crust: If using a homemade crust, pre-bake it according to recipe instructions and allow it to cool.
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Make the Chocolate Filling: In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually whisk in milk, making sure there are no lumps. Place over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
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Temper the Egg Yolks: In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly add a few spoonfuls of the hot chocolate mixture to the yolks while stirring (to prevent curdling). Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan, stirring constantly.
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Cook Until Thickened: Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes until the filling is thick like pudding. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, butter, and chocolate chips until smooth and glossy.
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Assemble the Pie: Pour the chocolate filling into the pre-baked pie crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.
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Chill & Set: Let the pie cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours (or overnight) until firm.
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Serve & Enjoy: Garnish with whipped cream or drizzle with extra melted chocolate before serving.
How to Serve Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie
Serve your Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie chilled, straight from the refrigerator. For a touch of elegance, top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or drizzle with melted chocolate. This pie pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk, making it a delightful ending to any meal.
How to Store Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie
Keep your Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie covered in the refrigerator. It should be good for up to 3 days. If you have any leftovers, make sure to wrap them well to maintain freshness.
Tips to Make Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie
- Use high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate chips for the best flavor.
- Make sure to whisk constantly when cooking the filling to avoid lumps.
- For a crunchy texture, consider adding a sprinkle of nuts on top of the pie before serving.
Variation
You can make a peanut butter version by swirling in some peanut butter into the chocolate filling before pouring it into the crust. This adds a delicious twist to the classic recipe!
FAQs
1. Can I use a store-bought pie crust?
Yes, a store-bought pie crust works perfectly for this recipe, saving you time.
2. How can I make the filling thicker?
Make sure to cook the filling over medium heat and whisk constantly. If it doesn’t thicken as expected, continue cooking for a bit longer.
3. Can I freeze Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie?
Yes, you can freeze the pie for about 1 month. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
Enjoy making this classic dessert that is simple, delicious, and sure to make everyone smile!