Best Old Fashioned Chocolate Pie Recipe: A Classic Dessert You’ll Crave Again and Again

If you're a chocolate lover with a soft spot for nostalgic desserts, this Old Fashioned Chocolate Pie will steal your heart. It’s rich, creamy, and has that comforting homemade taste that brings back memories of simpler times. Whether you're serving it at a family gathering or just indulging your sweet tooth, this pie is guaranteed to be a hit.

Photo byRecipes on a Budget

I first stumbled upon this gem in the Recipes on a Budget Facebook Group, where I find some of my favorite go-to recipes. This Old Fashioned Chocolate Pie caught my eye because it's affordable, simple to make, and loaded with deep chocolate flavor. Today, I’m excited to share this delightful dessert with you!

The Backstory and Fun Facts

Chocolate pies have been around for generations, with origins rooted in Southern baking traditions. Known for their silky, pudding-like filling and flaky crust, they’re a staple at holiday dinners and potlucks. What makes this version special is its old-fashioned charm – the creamy, rich filling is made from scratch, evoking memories of home-cooked meals and warm kitchens. It’s no surprise that this recipe has stood the test of time.

Ingredients

• 1 pre-made pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 2 cups milk (whole milk works best for richness)
• 3 egg yolks (room temperature)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Whipped cream for serving (optional but highly recommended)

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F to get it ready for the pie.
2. Cook the Filling: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and cocoa powder. Gradually add in the milk, stirring constantly to ensure a smooth mixture. Cook this over medium heat until it thickens, which should take about 7-10 minutes.
3. • Pro Tip: Stir continuously to prevent lumps and ensure an even texture!
4. Temper the Eggs: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly add about 1 cup of the hot cocoa mixture into the yolks, whisking constantly. This process, called tempering, prevents the eggs from scrambling.
5. Combine and Cook: Pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan and continue cooking over medium heat for an additional 2 minutes. This ensures the pie filling becomes thick and glossy.
6. Add Butter and Vanilla: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the unsalted butter and vanilla extract. These two ingredients add a smooth, rich flavor that really elevates the pie.
7. Fill the Crust: Pour the chocolate mixture into the pre-made pie crust. Bake the pie for 10-12 minutes, just long enough to set the filling.
8. Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to cool completely before serving to let the filling firm up. For an extra special touch, top with a generous dollop of whipped cream.

Pro Tips and Variations

• Crust Tip: If you prefer a homemade touch, you can make your own pie crust from scratch using flour, butter, and a bit of sugar.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap the pie crust for a gluten-free version if needed, and ensure your cornstarch is labeled gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the milk with almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free pie that still delivers on flavor.
• Extra Chocolatey: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the filling while it’s still hot for a more intense chocolate flavor.

Pairings and Serving Suggestions

This pie pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a rich and decadent experience. For a fun twist, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of the whipped cream – the contrast between salty and sweet is divine!

Call to Action

Did you love this Old Fashioned Chocolate Pie Recipe? I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Drop a comment below, share it with friends, and make sure to follow me for more delicious, budget-friendly recipes that are easy to make at home.