Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie is a delightful dessert that brings back memories of cozy family gatherings and festive celebrations. This rich and creamy pie is topped with a light and fluffy meringue, making it a true treat for chocolate lovers. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create this classic pie in your own kitchen.

Why Make This Recipe

There are many reasons to make Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie. It is a comforting dessert that is perfect for any occasion, from holiday dinners to birthday celebrations. The taste of chocolate combined with the lightness of meringue creates a dessert that is both satisfying and refreshing. Plus, it can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Making this pie from scratch allows you to share the love and tradition of homemade desserts with your family and friends.

How to Make Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie

Ingredients

1 pre-baked pie crust
1/4 cup butter
1 cup sugar
1/4 cup flour
1/2 cup cocoa powder
2 cups milk
3 egg yolks
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 egg whites
1/4 tsp cream of tartar
1/2 cup sugar

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
In a bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, and cocoa powder.
Gradually add this mixture to the melted butter, stirring well to avoid lumps.
Slowly add the milk while stirring until the mixture is smooth.
Cook this mixture for about 5-7 minutes, stirring often, until it thickens.
Once thickened, remove the saucepan from heat.
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks and add a spoonful of the hot chocolate mixture to temper them.
Gradually add the egg yolk mixture into the saucepan, stirring continuously.
Return the saucepan to heat and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Stir in the vanilla extract and then remove from heat.
Pour the chocolate filling into the pre-baked pie crust.
In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar together until soft peaks form.
Add the sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
Spread the meringue over the chocolate filling, making sure to seal the edges.
Bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown.
Allow the pie to cool completely before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie

Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie is best served chilled or at room temperature. You can cut it into slices and serve it plain or with a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra indulgence. Pairing it with fresh berries can also add a refreshing touch!

How to Store Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie

To store your Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It is best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness. Avoid freezing the meringue, as it can become watery when thawed.

Tips to Make Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie

Make sure your pie crust is fully baked before adding the filling.
For a smoother filling, whisk thoroughly to avoid lumps.
Beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form for the perfect meringue topping.
Allow the pie to cool completely before cutting to ensure neat slices.

Variation

You can enhance the flavor of your Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie by adding a pinch of salt or a splash of coffee to the chocolate filling. For a different twist, consider adding a layer of caramel or nuts for texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use a store-bought pie crust?
Yes, using a store-bought pie crust can save time, and it works perfectly with this recipe!

2. What if I don’t want to use egg whites for the meringue?
You can skip the meringue topping or use a whipped cream topping instead for a lighter finish.

3. How can I tell when the meringue is done baking?
The meringue is done when it is golden brown on top. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!