Introduction
There’s something truly comforting about a slice of homemade chocolate pie, especially when it’s Grandma’s secret recipe. This delightful dessert is a cherished tradition, bringing back warm memories of family gatherings and sweet celebrations. With its rich, creamy chocolate filling nestled in a perfectly baked crust, every bite is a chocolate lover’s dream come true. Whether you’re sharing it at a special occasion or just indulging yourself, this pie is sure to bring a smile to your face!
Ingredients
- 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 3/4 cups milk
- 3 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped cream for topping (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 35 minutes (includes cooling time)
Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature will ensure that your pie crust bakes to a beautiful golden brown.
- Carefully place the pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish and bake it according to the package instructions or until it’s golden and flaky. Once done, set it aside to cool completely.
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the granulated sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt until well combined.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously until the mixture is silky smooth.
- Heat the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the chocolate mixture thickens and starts to bubble—this typically takes just a few minutes.
- In a separate small bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks. Slowly add a few tablespoons of the hot chocolate mixture to the yolks, whisking rapidly to temper them. Then, whisk the yolk mixture back into the saucepan.
- Continue cooking for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the filling is thick and luscious.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract. This will add a delightful richness to your chocolate filling.
- Pour the decadent chocolate filling into the cooled pie crust, and gently smooth the top with a spatula.
- Let the pie cool to room temperature. For the best flavor and texture, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours before serving.
- When you’re ready to enjoy, top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream, if desired, for an extra touch of indulgence.
Notes or Tips
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of espresso powder to the filling—it’ll enhance the chocolate taste beautifully! If you’re short on time, using a store-bought crust is perfectly acceptable, but nothing beats the taste of a homemade pie crust made with love.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe involves basic techniques like whisking and tempering eggs. When tempering, it’s important to add the hot mixture slowly to prevent the eggs from scrambling. Ensure you’re stirring constantly during the cooking process to achieve that luxuriously smooth filling.
FAQ
Can I make this pie ahead of time? Absolutely! In fact, it’s best when made a day in advance. Just cover it well in the refrigerator.
How should I store leftovers? Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered loosely with plastic wrap, for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this chocolate pie? Yes, you can freeze it! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Just defrost in the refrigerator before serving.
Conclusion
Grandma’s Chocolate Pie is a timeless dessert that’s sure to delight everyone at your table. With its velvety chocolate filling and buttery crust, it’s an embodiment of love and tradition. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying a quiet night in, this pie will warm your heart and satisfy your sweet cravings. Enjoy every slice and the memories that come with it!