Old Fashioned Chocolate Pie is the kind of dessert that evokes memories of Sunday dinners, family gatherings, and homemade love. With its velvety, rich chocolate custard and a flaky, buttery crust, this pie stands the test of time. It’s both nostalgic and indulgent—perfect for those who appreciate traditional comfort food with a sweet twist.
Whether you’re preparing dessert for a dinner party or just need a chocolate fix, this easy-to-follow recipe will walk you through every step to ensure your pie turns out rich, silky, and utterly irresistible.
Ingredients for Old Fashioned Chocolate Pie
To make this classic dessert, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 9-inch pie crust, pre-baked
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 4 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped cream (optional, for serving)
Tip: Using whole milk gives the filling its richness. Avoid using low-fat milk for best results.
Preparing the Pie Crust
Before making the filling, pre-bake your 9-inch pie crust according to the instructions (store-bought or homemade). Let it cool completely before adding the filling to avoid a soggy crust.
Making the Chocolate Filling
Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized saucepan, whisk together:
- Sugar
- Cornstarch
- Cocoa powder
- Salt
This mixture forms the base of your chocolate custard. Be sure to mix thoroughly to eliminate any lumps from the dry ingredients.
Step 2: Add Milk
Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth. Doing this slowly helps prevent the cornstarch from clumping.
Step 3: Cook Until Thickened
Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens and begins to boil—this takes around 10–12 minutes. It should coat the back of a spoon when ready.
Step 4: Temper the Egg Yolks
In a small bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks. Slowly pour in 1 cup of the hot chocolate mixture, whisking constantly to temper the yolks. This keeps them from scrambling when added back to the hot custard.
Pour the egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly to ensure a smooth texture.
Step 5: Finish with Butter and Vanilla
Remove from heat and stir in:
- Butter
- Vanilla extract
Stir until the butter is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
Assembling and Chilling the Pie
Pour the warm chocolate filling into the pre-baked pie crust. Smooth the surface with a spatula.
Place a sheet of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the filling to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours or until fully set.
Serving Suggestions
Once chilled, top the pie with a generous dollop of whipped cream. For an extra-special presentation, try one of these toppings:
- Chocolate shavings
- Toasted coconut flakes
- Chopped toasted pecans
- Fresh raspberries or strawberries
Serve cold for the best texture and flavor.
Variations to Try
Espresso-Infused Chocolate Pie
Add 1 tablespoon of instant espresso powder to the filling to intensify the chocolate flavor with a hint of coffee.
Graham Cracker Crust Alternative
For a twist on tradition, use a graham cracker crust. It adds a subtle crunch and a caramel-like sweetness that complements the rich chocolate.
Different Chocolate Types
Experiment with dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even a mix of both for a custom flavor profile. Simply melt a few ounces of chopped chocolate and stir it in with the butter and vanilla at the end.
Tips for Perfect Chocolate Pie
- Use quality cocoa powder. It makes a noticeable difference in flavor. Dutch-processed cocoa yields a deeper color and smoother taste.
- Stir constantly. This prevents the custard from sticking to the pan or becoming lumpy.
- Temper the eggs slowly. Rushing this step may result in scrambled eggs.
- Cool completely. Allow the pie to set in the fridge for at least 4 hours (overnight is even better) before serving.
- Make ahead. This pie can be made a day in advance and actually tastes better the next day!
Why You’ll Love This Pie
This pie delivers everything you want in a homemade dessert: a rich, silky filling with deep chocolate notes, a buttery crust that holds everything together, and a melt-in-your-mouth finish. It’s simple enough for weeknights yet elegant enough for special occasions.
Each bite brings a wave of comfort, making it perfect for everything from Sunday suppers to holiday dinners.
FAQs
Can I use a store-bought pie crust?
Yes! Store-bought crusts work well for this recipe. Just make sure to pre-bake them according to package instructions before adding the filling.
How long does this pie last in the fridge?
Stored in the refrigerator, this pie stays fresh for up to 3 days. Keep it covered with plastic wrap or foil to maintain freshness.
Can I freeze Old Fashioned Chocolate Pie?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic and then foil. To serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Can I use dairy alternatives?
You can substitute almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk, but the texture may be slightly thinner. For best results, stick with full-fat alternatives.
How do I avoid a lumpy filling?
Always whisk constantly and temper the eggs properly. If lumps form, you can strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve before pouring into the crust.