Description

This classic Grandma’s Chocolate Pie is a rich and creamy dessert featuring a smooth chocolate custard filling set in a buttery pre-baked pie crust. Made from simple pantry ingredients like cocoa, cornstarch, and egg yolks, this pie is cooked gently on the stovetop until thickened, then chilled to perfection. It’s an easy-to-make, comforting treat that delights with deep chocolate flavor and velvety texture.

Ingredients

Scale

Filling Ingredients

½ cup cocoa powder
¼ cup cornstarch
3 egg yolks
1 ½ cups sugar
¼ teaspoon salt
2 cups milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Additional

1 pre-baked pie shell
Optional toppings: whipped cream or meringue

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Instructions

Mix the Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine the cocoa powder, cornstarch, beaten egg yolks, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the milk to the mixture while stirring continuously to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated and smooth.
Cook the Filling: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir the mixture constantly as it heats up to prevent lumps and sticking. Continue cooking until the filling thickens to a custard-like consistency—this usually takes several minutes. Keep stirring to maintain smoothness.
Pour Into the Pie Shell: Once the chocolate filling has thickened, carefully pour it into your pre-baked pie shell, spreading evenly.
Chill the Pie: Allow the filled pie to cool at room temperature for a few minutes. Then transfer it to the refrigerator to chill for about 2 hours, or until the filling is fully set and firm.
Serve: After chilling, slice the pie and serve. For an extra special touch, top slices with whipped cream or a fluffy meringue if desired, although the pie is delicious as is.

Notes

Make sure to stir constantly during cooking to prevent lumps and burning.
Using a pre-baked pie shell is important, as the filling does not bake.
For a richer flavor, whole milk is recommended.
The pie can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Optional toppings like whipped cream or meringue add texture and sweetness but are not necessary.