Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie

Looking for a rich, creamy, and nostalgic dessert? This Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie is a timeless favorite, featuring a smooth chocolate filling, flaky crust, and your choice of fluffy meringue or decadent whipped cream topping. Made with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients like cocoa, heavy cream, and vanilla, this dessert is perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or satisfying your chocolate cravings. Easy to follow and bursting with homemade flavor, this pie will be the star of your dessert table. Ideal for chocolate lovers, this recipe is a must-try classic that never goes out of style!

Ingredients

Pie Filling

• Crust: A deep-dish pie crust, baked (a shallow crust will work but will be very full).
• Dry Ingredients:
• 1 cup sugar
• 3 ½ tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon real salt
• 4 tablespoons cocoa powder or cacao powder
• Wet Ingredients:
• 3 egg yolks
• 10 ounces heavy whipping cream
• 6 ounces milk
• 4 ounces water
• 1 ½ tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2–3 teaspoons vanilla extract (to taste)

Meringue Topping

• 3 egg whites (reserved from yolks used in pie filling)
• 5 tablespoons fine-grain sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

Whipped Cream Topping (Yields 2 1/3 cups)

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 3 tablespoons fine-grain sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

Make the Pie Filling

1. Prepare Ingredients:

• Combine sugar, flour, salt, and cocoa powder in a small bowl.
• Separate 3 eggs, placing the yolks in a medium saucepan and reserving the whites for meringue (if using).

1. Whisk and Cook:

• Whisk the egg yolks in the saucepan, then add heavy cream, milk, and water. Mix well.
• Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon until the mixture starts to boil.

1. Add Dry Ingredients:

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the saucepan, whisking to combine.
• Return to stirring with the wooden spoon and add the butter.

1. Thicken:

• Continue stirring and cooking for about 5 minutes or until the filling reaches a pudding-like consistency.
• Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract (2–3 teaspoons).

1. Assemble the Pie:

• Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust.

1. Choose a Topping:

• For meringue, spread it on top of the hot filling and brown under a broiler.
• For whipped cream, allow the pie to cool and refrigerate before topping.

Meringue Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, whip egg whites on high speed until fluffy.
2. Gradually add sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while beating on low speed.
3. Once sugar is fully dissolved, return to high speed and whip until stiff peaks form.
4. Spread meringue over the hot pie filling and brown it under a broiler, watching carefully to avoid burning.

Whipped Cream Instructions

1. In a chilled bowl, whip 1 cup heavy cream at high speed until it begins to stiffen.
2. Gradually add sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, and beat until stiff peaks form.
3. Stir in vanilla extract for flavor.
4. Refrigerate until ready to use, storing in an airtight container.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Timeless Classic: This chocolate pie brings a nostalgic homemade touch to any meal.
• Customizable Toppings: Choose between fluffy meringue or rich whipped cream.
• Decadent Flavor: Made with real cocoa for a deep, chocolatey taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for holidays, family gatherings, or a weeknight dessert.

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Tips

• Prevent Lumps: Whisk dry ingredients into the wet gradually for a smooth filling.
• Meringue Perfection: Ensure egg whites are at room temperature for optimal fluffiness.
• Whipped Cream Texture: Chill the bowl and whisk for best results.
• Don’t Rush Cooling: Allow the pie to fully cool and set before slicing for clean cuts.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Crust: Use graham cracker or Oreo crust for a different twist.
• Chocolate Flavor: Swap cocoa powder for dark cocoa for a richer taste.
• Dairy-Free Option: Replace milk and cream with plant-based alternatives like almond milk or coconut cream.
• Topping Variety: Add shaved chocolate or a drizzle of caramel on top of the whipped cream.

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FAQs

1. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Refrigerate and add whipped cream just before serving.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

3. Can I skip the meringue?
Absolutely! Whipped cream is a delicious and easy alternative.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Serve Chilled: This pie is best enjoyed cold, straight from the fridge.
• Pairings: Serve with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of milk for a comforting treat.
• Presentation Tip: Garnish with chocolate curls or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for added elegance.

Enjoy this rich and creamy Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie, a dessert that’s sure to please every chocolate lover!