Easy Chocolate Pie
Indulge in the ultimate comfort dessert with this Chocolate Pie.
With a creamy, velvety filling nestled in a buttery, pre-baked crust, this dessert is a chocolate lover’s dream. Ready in no time, it’s a perfect treat for any occasion.
This silky chocolate pie combines simplicity with decadence, making it the ideal choice for everything from family dinners to holiday gatherings.
Customize it with your favorite toppings like whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or crushed nuts for a personal touch.
Ingredients for the Perfect Easy Chocolate Pie
- Cocoa powder – Delivers the deep, rich chocolate flavor essential for this pie.
- Granulated sugar – Balances the cocoa’s bitterness for a perfectly sweetened filling.
- Salt – Enhances the chocolate’s flavor depth and complexity.
- Milk – Provides the creamy base for the filling; substitute with half-and-half for extra richness.
- All-purpose flour – Thickens the pudding to create a luscious, sliceable texture.
- Egg yolks – Add richness and help set the pie.
- Vanilla extract – Lends a subtle warmth and enhances the chocolate’s flavor.
- Pre-baked pie crust – A buttery base that pairs perfectly with the silky filling.
- Cool Whip or whipped cream – A light, fluffy garnish that balances the pie’s richness.
How to Make This Decadent Chocolate Pie
Creating this Easy Chocolate Pie is as satisfying as it is straightforward. Here’s a sneak peek at the process:
- Warm the milk in a saucepan until steaming, but avoid boiling.
- Combine sugar, cocoa powder, salt, and flour, then gradually whisk into the milk.
- Thicken the mixture by cooking for a few minutes, stirring continuously.
- Temper and incorporate egg yolks for a creamy, rich texture.
- Stir in vanilla and pour the mixture into a pre-baked crust.
- Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until set.
- Garnish with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or your preferred toppings before serving.
Recipe Tips and Variations for Easy Chocolate Pie
To elevate this recipe, substitute milk with half-and-half or heavy cream for an ultra-rich filling. A teaspoon of espresso powder can deepen the chocolate flavor, giving it a mocha twist. For toppings, consider a sprinkle of crushed nuts, a dusting of cocoa powder, or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for an extra touch of decadence. The filling can also be poured into tartlet shells for an elegant, bite-sized dessert.
Storing Leftover Chocolate Pie Like a Pro
Refrigerate leftover pie in an airtight container or covered with plastic wrap to maintain freshness. It will keep for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic and foil, then thaw in the fridge before enjoying. Avoid freezing whipped cream toppings; add those just before serving.
Chocolate Pie Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 egg yolks beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 9-inch pre-baked pie crust
- Cool Whip or sweetened whipped cream for garnish
Instructions
- Warm the milk in a medium saucepan over medium heat until it begins to steam, avoiding boiling.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the sugar, salt, cocoa powder, and flour until evenly combined.
- Gradually whisk the dry mixture into the steaming milk. Cook for 2–3 minutes, whisking continuously, until the mixture thickens.
- Temper the egg yolks by whisking a few spoonfuls of the hot milk mixture into them, then slowly incorporate the tempered yolks back into the saucepan.
- Continue cooking the mixture for an additional 2 minutes, whisking constantly, until it thickens further.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the hot chocolate pudding into the pre-baked pie crust and smooth the surface with a spatula.
- Allow the pie to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
- Before serving, add dollops or swirls of Cool Whip or whipped cream to the top for a decorative finish.
Notes
Add 1 teaspoon of instant coffee or espresso powder for a mocha twist.
Garnish with chocolate shavings, cocoa powder, or even crushed nuts for added flair.