Description
Silky smooth chocolate custard nestles in a flaky, buttery crust for this classic old fashioned chocolate pie that whispers comfort and nostalgia. Rich cocoa layers meld perfectly, promising a slice of pure, homemade happiness you’ll savor with each delightful bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Pie Crust:
- 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
Chocolate Filling:
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Whipped Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 3 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp chocolate shavings (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and carefully position the pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish, crimping the edges decoratively while sprinkling sugar and salt across the surface.
- Bake the pie crust for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden, then remove and allow to cool completely on a wire rack.
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, whisk together cocoa powder, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt until thoroughly combined and lump-free.
- Gradually incorporate eggs and milk into the dry mixture, stirring continuously to create a smooth, silky chocolate base.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent scorching and ensure a creamy consistency.
- Cook the chocolate mixture for 7-9 minutes, watching for a gradual thickening that coats the back of a spoon, indicating perfect pudding-like texture.
- Remove from heat and immediately fold in butter and vanilla extract, stirring until the butter melts completely and integrates smoothly.
- Pour the luxurious chocolate filling into the pre-baked pie crust, using a spatula to spread evenly and eliminate any air pockets.
- Refrigerate the pie for at least 3-4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the filling to set completely.
- Before serving, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form, creating a light and airy topping.
- Generously spread the whipped cream over the chilled chocolate filling, creating elegant swirls and peaks.
- Optionally garnish with delicate chocolate shavings for an elegant finishing touch.
- Slice and serve the pie chilled, revealing the rich, velvety chocolate interior.
Notes
- Ensure pie crust is completely cool before adding filling to prevent soggy bottom and maintain crisp texture.
- Use Dutch-processed cocoa for deeper, more intense chocolate flavor that elevates the entire dessert.
- Constant stirring is crucial during cooking to prevent lumps and achieve silky-smooth pudding-like consistency.
- Chilling overnight allows flavors to develop and filling to set perfectly, creating a more decadent dessert experience.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 451
- Sugar: 40 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 27 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg