Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie

Here is a complete step-by-step recipe for Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie — a rich, creamy, homemade chocolate custard baked in a flaky pie crust. This classic Southern dessert is often topped with whipped cream or meringue.

Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie

Servings: 8 slices

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 to 20 minutes

Chill Time: 4 hours or overnight

Total Time: About 5 hours

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• ¼ cup all-purpose flour

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 3 large egg yolks

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the Crust:

• 1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)

Instructions

Step 1: Pre-Bake the Pie Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Place the pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and crimp the edges.

3. Prick the bottom with a fork. Line with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans.

4. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until lightly golden. Remove weights and parchment, then bake for another 5 minutes if needed.

5. Cool completely before adding the filling.

Step 2: Make the Chocolate Filling

1. In a medium saucepan (off the heat), whisk together the sugar, cocoa powder, flour, and salt.

2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks and milk together until well combined.

3. Slowly pour the egg and milk mixture into the dry ingredients while whisking constantly to avoid lumps.

4. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly.

5. Cook for about 8 to 12 minutes, or until the filling thickens to a pudding-like consistency and coats the back of a spoon.

6. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter until smooth and glossy.

Step 3: Fill and Chill

1. Pour the hot filling into the cooled, pre-baked crust.

2. Smooth the top with a spatula.

3. Let it cool at room temperature for 30 minutes.

4. Cover with plastic wrap (press it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming).

5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight until fully set.

Step 4: Serve

• Slice and serve the pie cold.

• Optional toppings: whipped cream, meringue, or shaved chocolate.

Tips and Variations

• Use dark cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor.

• For extra depth, add a pinch of espresso powder to the filling.

• To make it dairy-free, use a plant-based butter and unsweetened almond or oat milk.

• If you prefer a lighter crust, graham cracker crust works well too.