Grandma’s Secret: The Ultimate Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie Recipe
There’s a reason some recipes are passed down for generations—they work, they comfort, and they bring people together. This old-fashioned chocolate pie is one of those. With a silky chocolate filling nestled inside a crisp, buttery crust, this pie captures the heart of traditional Southern desserts. Perfect for Sunday dinners, family celebrations, or anytime you want something sweet and nostalgic.
Ingredients
To make this pie just like Grandma did, here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 prepared pie crust, baked and cooled
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3 large egg yolks, lightly beaten
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pie Crust:
If you’re using store-bought crust, follow the package instructions to bake it fully. If making from scratch, roll out the dough into a 9-inch pie dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) until golden. Let it cool completely. - Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cocoa powder, and flour. Make sure it’s fully combined with no lumps. - Add Milk and Eggs:
Slowly add the milk and then the lightly beaten egg yolks, whisking constantly until smooth. - Cook the Mixture:
Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble. This usually takes 7 to 10 minutes. Once thick, remove from the heat. - Add Butter and Vanilla:
Stir in the butter and vanilla until melted and fully incorporated. - Fill the Crust:
Pour the warm filling into the cooled pie crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top evenly. - Chill to Set:
Let the pie cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing. - Serve:
Serve chilled, topped with whipped cream if desired.
Tips for a Perfect Chocolate Pie
- Constant Stirring: Helps the mixture thicken evenly and prevents lumps.
- Avoiding Skin on Top: If you’re making the pie ahead, place plastic wrap directly on the filling’s surface before chilling.
- Flavor Boost: A pinch of espresso powder deepens the chocolate flavor.
- Topping Variations: Swap whipped cream for meringue, or add chocolate curls for extra flair.
Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 30g
- Protein: 6g
Final Thoughts
This chocolate pie isn’t just a recipe—it’s a warm memory on a plate. Its rich filling and tender crust bring back stories from childhood, potlucks, and family kitchens. Whether you’re keeping the tradition alive or making it for the first time, this old-fashioned pie is sure to become a favorite.
So go ahead—dust off your pie dish, gather a few simple ingredients, and enjoy a bite of timeless sweetness.
Comments are closed, but trackbacks and pingbacks are open.