Description

This classic Chocolate Pie features a luscious, creamy chocolate filling set in a pre-baked pie crust. With rich cocoa, smooth chocolate chips, and a velvety texture, it’s a decadent dessert perfect for any occasion. The pie uses a stovetop method to create a silky pudding-like filling that chills to perfection without additional baking. Optional toppings like whipped cream or chocolate shavings add an elegant finishing touch.

Ingredients

Scale

Pie Crust

1 9-inch pie crust, pre-baked

Filling

1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 3/4 cups whole milk
4 large egg yolks
1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Topping (Optional)

Whipped cream or chocolate shavings

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt until well combined to ensure a smooth chocolate filling.
Add Milk and Heat: Gradually whisk in the whole milk into the dry ingredients until the mixture is smooth. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly to prevent lumps, until it thickens and starts to bubble, approximately 8 to 10 minutes.
Temper the Egg Yolks: In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly add a few spoonfuls of the hot chocolate mixture into the yolks while whisking constantly to temper and prevent curdling. Then, return the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan, whisking continuously to combine.
Cook to Thicken Further: Continue cooking the mixture over medium heat for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly until the filling becomes thick and pudding-like. Remove the saucepan from heat promptly to avoid overcooking.
Add Chocolate, Butter, and Vanilla: Stir in the semisweet chocolate chips, unsalted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until the chocolate and butter have fully melted and the filling is smooth and glossy.
Assemble the Pie: Pour the warm chocolate filling into the pre-baked pie crust. Use a spatula to smooth the surface evenly. Cover with plastic wrap pressed directly on the filling to prevent a skin from forming.
Chill the Pie: Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or until the filling is fully set and firm to the touch.
Serve: Before serving, optionally top the pie with whipped cream or garnish with chocolate shavings for an extra touch of indulgence.

Notes

For a different flavor, try using a graham cracker or Oreo crust instead of the traditional pie crust.
To make a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk with plant-based milk (such as almond or oat milk) and use dairy-free butter alternatives.
This chocolate pie can be prepared a day in advance and kept chilled until ready to serve, making it perfect for entertaining.
Make sure to press plastic wrap directly on the filling to prevent a skin from forming during chilling.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American