Description

Indulging in a slice of Old Fashioned Chocolate Pie evokes feelings of nostalgia, transporting you back to family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or even just a cozy afternoon at home. This classic dessert combines a rich, velvety chocolate filling with a light and airy meringue topping, creating a delightful contrast in textures that will please any chocolate lover. Made with simple ingredients, this pie is a celebration of flavors that never goes out of style. Whether you're making it for a special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this Old Fashioned Chocolate Pie is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• For the Pie:
• 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade, if preferred)
• 1/4 cup butter (unsalted)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 2 cups milk (whole or low-fat)
• 3 egg yolks (beaten)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the Meringue:
• 3 egg whites (at room temperature)
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

Preparation Method

1. Prepare the pie crust by baking a pre-made crust or rolling out homemade dough into a 9-inch pie plate, pricking the bottom, and baking at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until golden. Cool completely.

2. Make the chocolate filling by combining sugar, flour, cocoa powder, and salt in a saucepan. Gradually whisk in milk, cook while stirring until thickened, then remove from heat and mix in butter, egg yolks, and vanilla.

3. Pour the chocolate filling into the cooled pie crust and let it cool slightly.

4. Prepare the meringue by beating egg whites until frothy, adding cream of tartar, then gradually adding sugar while beating until stiff peaks form.

5. Spread the meringue over the chocolate filling, sealing the edges and creating peaks for decoration.

6. Bake the pie at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until the meringue is lightly golden.

7. Cool the pie at room temperature for one hour, then refrigerate for at least two hours before slicing.

Tips and Conclusion

Egg Whites at Room Temperature: For the best results, use egg whites that are at room temperature. They whip up better and yield a fluffier meringue.
Preventing Weeping: To avoid weeping meringue (a watery layer between the filling and meringue), ensure the filling is hot when spreading the meringue on top. This helps to cook the bottom layer of meringue slightly.
Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator, covered lightly with plastic wrap. This pie is best enjoyed within a few days for optimal texture and flavor.
Old Fashioned Chocolate Pie is not just a dessert; it's a tradition passed down through generations, bringing comfort and joy to many. Its rich chocolate filling and light meringue topping create a delightful combination that is hard to resist. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a slice with your afternoon coffee, this pie is sure to satisfy your cravings. Try making this recipe for your next gathering and watch as it becomes a favorite among your friends and family, just as it has for countless others before. Enjoy every delicious bite of this timeless treat!