Grandma’s Dreamy Old-Fashioned Chocolate Cream Pie Recipe

Grandma’s secret old-fashioned chocolate cream pie recipe holds memories of cozy Sunday afternoons.

Sweet aromas would drift through her sunny kitchen, promising delectable comfort.

Silky chocolate filling nestled between flaky pastry layers created pure magic.

Rich cocoa whispers stories of traditional baking techniques passed down generations.

Creamy textures and deep flavors invite you to recreate a cherished classic.

Comfort awaits in every decadent slice of this timeless dessert.

Grab a fork and savor each nostalgic bite!

Why Old-Fashioned Chocolate Cream Pie Is A Family Favorite

• Craft with Ease: Navigate this recipe smoothly with straightforward steps that even novice bakers can master without feeling overwhelmed.
• Indulge in Decadence: Experience a rich chocolate cream pie that delivers intense flavor and luxurious texture, making every bite a pure pleasure.
• Perfect for Gatherings: Impress friends and family with a show-stopping dessert that looks professionally made but requires minimal culinary expertise.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare this dessert in advance, allowing the pie to chill and set, which reduces stress when planning for special occasions or potlucks.

What Goes Into Old-Fashioned Chocolate Cream Pie

• Pie Crust: A pre-made or homemade base that provides a delicate foundation for the chocolate cream pie.

• Milk: Adds creamy richness and helps create a smooth custard texture.
• Cream: Provides luxurious thickness and enhances the custard's silky consistency.
• Cocoa Powder: Delivers deep, intense chocolate flavor to the pie filling.
• Sugar: Balances the bitterness of cocoa and adds sweetness to the custard.

• Egg Yolks: Help to thicken and stabilize the custard with their natural binding properties.
• Cornstarch: Acts as a critical thickening agent for achieving the perfect pudding-like texture.
• Salt: Enhances and rounds out the overall flavor profile of the chocolate custard.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and complexity to the chocolate flavor.
• Butter: Contributes to a glossy, rich finish and smooth mouthfeel.

• Whipping Cream, Dark Chocolate Shavings: Provide a classic, elegant topping that adds visual appeal and complementary textures.

How To Make Old-Fashioned Chocolate Cream Pie

Step 1: Press Pie Crust

Gently work the pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish, making sure it covers the bottom and sides evenly. Smooth out any wrinkles or air pockets. Pop the crust into the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Create Chocolate Base

• Milk
• Cream
• Cocoa powder
• Sugar

Whisk these ingredients until they form a smooth, silky mixture with no lumps.

Step 3: Prepare Egg Thickener

• Egg yolks
• Cornstarch
• Salt

Whisk vigorously until the mixture turns pale and looks completely integrated.

Step 4: Temper the Mixture

Slowly pour the warm chocolate liquid into the egg mixture, stirring constantly. This prevents the eggs from scrambling and creates a smooth base.

Step 5: Cook the Filling

Return the combined mixture to medium heat. Stir continuously for 6-8 minutes until the filling transforms into a thick, pudding-like consistency and starts to bubble.

Step 6: Add Finishing Touches

• Vanilla extract
• Butter

Mix until both ingredients are completely melted and incorporated into the filling.

Step 7: Fill the Pie Crust

Pour the chocolate custard through a fine-mesh strainer directly into the chilled pie crust. Use a spatula to create a smooth, even surface.

Step 8: Chill and Set

Cover the surface with plastic wrap, making sure it touches the custard to prevent skin formation. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 9: Decorate and Serve

• Freshly whipped cream
• Dark chocolate shavings

Slice and enjoy the rich, creamy chocolate delight straight from the refrigerator.

Baking Tips For Old-Fashioned Chocolate Cream Pie

• Prevent Crust Crumbling: Press pie crust gently but firmly into the dish, avoiding excessive pressure that might break the delicate pastry.
• Avoid Lumpy Filling: Sift cocoa powder before whisking to ensure a smooth, silky chocolate mixture without any unwanted clumps.
• Master Egg Tempering: Pour warm chocolate liquid slowly into egg mixture while whisking constantly to prevent scrambling and create a perfect, creamy custard.
• Control Cooking Temperature: Maintain medium heat and stir continuously to achieve the ideal pudding-like consistency without burning the filling.
• Protect Pie Surface: Place plastic wrap directly on the custard's surface to prevent skin formation and maintain a glossy, unblemished finish.

Simple Variations Of Old-Fashioned Chocolate Cream Pie

• Vegan Chocolate Silk Pie: Replace dairy milk with coconut milk, use plant-based cream, swap egg yolks for silken tofu, and use vegan butter for a creamy, dairy-free version.
• Gluten-Free Chocolate Cream Pie: Substitute traditional pie crust with a nut-based or gluten-free graham cracker crust, ensuring all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Low-Sugar Chocolate Silk Pie: Use sugar alternatives like stevia or monk fruit sweetener, reduce overall sugar content, and incorporate dark chocolate with higher cocoa percentage for intense flavor.
• Mint Chocolate Cream Pie: Add peppermint extract to the filling, garnish with crushed mint candies, and create a chocolate mint variation that refreshes the classic recipe.

Perfect Pairings For Old-Fashioned Chocolate Cream Pie

• Pair Robust Red Wine: Choose a full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot with deep chocolate notes that complement the rich, velvety chocolate cream pie's intense flavor profile.
• Create Coffee Companion: Serve alongside a strong espresso or dark roast coffee, whose bitter undertones beautifully balance the pie's sweet, creamy texture and enhance the chocolate's depth.
• Select Vanilla-Based Beverage: Recommend a vanilla bean latte or cold brew with vanilla syrup, which provides a complementary sweetness that softens the pie's intense chocolate character without overwhelming its delicate nuances.
• Match Dessert Liqueur: Suggest pairing with chocolate liqueur like Godiva or Baileys Irish Cream, creating a decadent flavor experience that amplifies the pie's luxurious chocolate essence while adding sophisticated complexity.

Best Way To Store Old-Fashioned Chocolate Cream Pie

• Transfer leftover pie to an airtight container, covering the surface with plastic wrap to prevent skin formation. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Wrap the entire pie tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Place single slices in separate sealed containers or wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for quick grab-and-go treats lasting 2-3 days.
• Gently warm individual slices at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving. Avoid microwave to maintain the smooth, creamy texture of the chocolate filling.

FAQs About Old-Fashioned Chocolate Cream Pie

• Is this pie difficult to make?

No, it’s surprisingly easy. The recipe requires basic whisking and careful heating techniques that any home cook can master with patience and attention to detail.

• What type of cocoa powder works best?

Dutch-processed cocoa powder provides the richest, smoothest chocolate flavor and creates a more luxurious texture in this chocolate cream pie.

• How can I prevent lumps in the filling?

Whisk ingredients thoroughly and use a fine-mesh strainer when pouring the filling into the crust. Constant stirring while heating helps create a smooth, silky custard.

• Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! This pie actually improves when chilled overnight, allowing the flavors to develop and the filling to set perfectly, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert.

Old-Fashioned Chocolate Cream Pie Recipe

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4.8 from 27 reviews

• Total Time: 4 hours 35 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Chocolate cream pie brings nostalgic comfort from grandma’s kitchen, delivering rich, silky indulgence in each heavenly slice. Sweet memories and creamy chocolate embrace you with pure, classic dessert perfection.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1 9-inch pie crust (graham cracker or traditional)
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar

Thickening Agents:

• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1/4 tsp salt

Finishing Ingredients:

• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 cup whipped cream (for topping)
• 2 oz dark chocolate shavings (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the pie crust by pressing it evenly into a 9-inch pie dish, ensuring a smooth, uniform base. Refrigerate while preparing the filling.
2. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, whisk together milk, cream, cocoa powder, and sugar until completely smooth and free of lumps.
3. Separately, create a silky thickening mixture by whisking egg yolks, cornstarch, and salt until pale and well-integrated.
4. Gradually temper the egg mixture by slowly streaming the warm chocolate liquid, constantly stirring to prevent egg scrambling.
5. Return the combined mixture to medium heat, stirring continuously for 6-8 minutes until the filling thickens to a pudding-like consistency and begins to bubble.
6. Remove from heat and immediately incorporate vanilla extract and butter, stirring until completely melted and integrated.
7. Pour the rich chocolate custard through a fine-mesh strainer directly into the prepared pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
8. Cover the surface directly with plastic wrap to prevent skin formation and refrigerate for minimum 4 hours or overnight until completely set.
9. Before serving, generously top with freshly whipped cream and elegantly sprinkle dark chocolate shavings across the surface.
10. Slice and serve chilled, revealing the luscious, velvety chocolate cream beneath the delicate whipped cream layer.

Notes

• Prevent pie crust shrinkage by chilling the crust before baking and using pie weights during initial blind baking.
• Avoid lumpy filling by whisking cocoa powder and sugar thoroughly and using a fine-mesh strainer when pouring custard.
• Control custard texture by maintaining medium heat and stirring constantly to prevent scorching or curdling.
• Create dairy-free version by substituting coconut milk for cream and using plant-based butter for a rich, creamy alternative.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 22 g
• Sodium: 110 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg