Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie

Step-by-step instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, and cocoa powder until well combined.
Gradually add the dry mixture to the melted butter, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
Slowly pour in the milk while stirring until the mixture is completely smooth.
Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly until the mixture has thickened. Remove from heat.
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Add a spoonful of the hot chocolate mixture to the yolks to temper them, then stir the yolks back into the saucepan.
Place the saucepan back on the heat for another 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously.
Stir in the vanilla extract and remove from heat.
Pour the chocolate filling into the pre-baked pie crust, smoothing the top.
In a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
Gradually add the sugar, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.
Spread the meringue over the chocolate filling, sealing the edges of the pie crust.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown.
Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing.

How to serve Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie

To create a delightful presentation, slice the pie into wedges and serve each slice on a plate with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Fresh berries such as raspberries or strawberries can add a refreshing touch to each serving. For added flair, consider drizzling some chocolate sauce on the plate for a beautiful dessert that looks just as good as it tastes!

Keeping leftovers fresh

To store your chocolate pie, gently cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator. Ideally, it should be consumed within 3 to 4 days for the best taste and texture. If you’re left with some extra pie that you’d like to freeze, make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months, but keep in mind that the meringue may lose its texture upon thawing.

Helpful cooking tips

Ensure your egg whites are at room temperature before whipping; this helps them achieve greater volume.
When tempering the egg yolks, it’s crucial to add the hot mixture slowly to prevent the eggs from cooking prematurely.
If you want a deeper chocolate flavor, you can increase the amount of cocoa powder slightly or even add a splash of brewed espresso to the hot mixture.

Creative twists

Feel free to get creative with this classic! For a unique flavor, try adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to the chocolate mixture, or incorporate a splash of peppermint extract for a refreshing twist. You can also top the meringue with cocoa powder or toasted coconut for added texture and taste.

FAQs

What’s the prep time for this Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie?

The overall prep time is about 30 minutes, while baking will take an additional 10-12 minutes.

Can I use a store-bought pie crust?

Absolutely! A pre-made pie crust is a great time-saver. Just ensure it’s fully cooled and pre-baked before adding the filling.

How should I handle leftover meringue?

You can prepare the meringue and store it in the fridge for a short period, but it’s best to use it immediately for optimal texture and taste. If you have leftover meringue, consider making meringue cookies!