Old Fashioned Chocolate Pie with Golden Meringue

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely adore this Old Fashioned Chocolate Pie because it brings back memories of classic family gatherings and homemade desserts. The combination of the smooth chocolate filling and the light, airy meringue on top creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The rich cocoa flavor in the filling is perfectly complemented by the sweetness of the meringue. Plus, the pie crust adds that perfect, buttery crunch. It’s a comforting and satisfying dessert that feels both nostalgic and luxurious at the same time.

Ingredients

For the Pie Filling:

• 1 pie crust, baked

• 1/4 cup butter

• 1 cup sugar

• 1/4 cup flour

• 1/2 cup cocoa powder

• 2 cups milk

• 3 egg yolks

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Meringue:

• 3 egg whites

• 1/4 tsp cream of tartar

• 6 tbsp sugar

• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the filling: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the sugar, flour, and cocoa powder. Stir to combine and cook for 2 minutes, ensuring the mixture is smooth.

2. Add the milk: Gradually whisk in the milk and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly until it thickens, about 5 minutes.

3. Temper the egg yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly pour a small amount of the hot chocolate mixture into the yolks to temper them. Then, gradually pour the tempered yolks back into the saucepan, stirring constantly to avoid curdling.

4. Finish the filling: Cook the filling for another 2-3 minutes, until it thickens to a pudding-like consistency. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Pour the chocolate filling into the baked pie crust and set aside.

5. Prepare the meringue: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, and continue beating until stiff peaks form. Stir in the vanilla extract.

6. Top the pie: Spread the meringue over the chocolate filling, ensuring it completely covers the filling and reaches the edges of the crust to seal in the chocolate. Use the back of a spoon to create peaks and swirls on top.

7. Bake the pie: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the pie for 12-15 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown.

8. Cool and serve: Let the pie cool to room temperature for at least 1 hour to allow the filling to set. Serve and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes one pie, serving approximately 8 slices.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate variation: For an even richer chocolate flavor, you can add a handful of chopped semi-sweet or dark chocolate to the filling mixture when cooking it.

• Flavor twist: Add a teaspoon of instant coffee granules to the filling for a mocha flavor that enhances the chocolate.

• Nutty crust: If you like, you can use a graham cracker crust or add finely chopped nuts to your regular pie crust for a crunchy variation.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: This pie is best served chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer it warm, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds, though the meringue will soften.

Can you freeze it? You can freeze the pie before adding the meringue. Simply freeze the pie crust and chocolate filling, and then add the meringue and bake it when you’re ready to serve. The meringue won’t freeze as well once baked.

FAQs

Can I make the meringue ahead of time?

While it’s best to make the meringue just before baking, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, just add the meringue and bake.

Can I use a store-bought pie crust?

Yes! If you’re short on time, you can use a store-bought pie crust. Just make sure to pre-bake it according to the package instructions.

How can I avoid a runny filling?

To prevent a runny filling, make sure to cook it long enough until it thickens to a pudding-like consistency. Additionally, make sure to temper the egg yolks slowly so they don’t curdle.

Can I use milk alternatives?

You can substitute the regular milk with a dairy-free milk alternative like almond milk or coconut milk, though the texture and flavor may differ slightly.

What if I don’t want to make meringue?

If meringue isn’t your thing, you can skip it and top the chocolate filling with whipped cream instead for a simpler, lighter version of the pie.

Conclusion

This Old Fashioned Chocolate Pie with Golden Meringue is a delightful, indulgent dessert that combines rich chocolate with a fluffy meringue topping. Whether you’re celebrating National Chocolate Day or just craving a nostalgic treat, this pie is sure to bring smiles to everyone’s face. With its creamy filling, buttery crust, and golden meringue, it’s the perfect dessert to serve at your next gathering!

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