Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie with Golden Meringue Recipe

This Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie is a rich, velvety dessert with deep cocoa flavor, nestled in a flaky pre-baked crust and topped with a golden, airy meringue. The filling is creamy, luscious, and made from scratch—just like grandma used to make. Perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or anytime you crave a true Southern classic.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Pie Filling:

• 1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 cups whole milk
• 4 large egg yolks (save whites for meringue!)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Golden Meringue:

• 4 large egg whites
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

this RECIPE

Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensure your pie crust is pre-baked and cooled.
2. Make the Chocolate Filling: In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
3. Cook Until Thickened: Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble (about 8-10 minutes).
4. Temper the Eggs: In a small bowl, whisk egg yolks. Slowly add about 1/2 cup of the hot chocolate mixture, whisking constantly, then pour back into the saucepan. Cook for 2 more minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Finish the Filling: Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract. Pour the warm filling into the baked pie crust.
6. Make the Meringue: In a large mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar on high speed until foamy. Gradually add sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating until stiff peaks form.
7. Top & Bake: Spread the meringue over the warm chocolate filling, sealing to the edges of the crust. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown.
8. Cool & Serve: Let the pie cool at room temperature for at least 1 hour, then refrigerate for 3-4 hours before slicing. Enjoy!

Notes

• For a deeper chocolate flavor, use Dutch-process cocoa.
• Sealing the meringue to the crust prevents it from shrinking.
• Best served chilled, but allow it to sit at room temp for 10 minutes before slicing for a clean cut.

Helpful Tips for the Perfect Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie

1. Use a Fully Baked Crust – Since the filling is cooked on the stovetop, make sure your pie crust is fully baked before pouring in the chocolate mixture. A flaky, golden crust adds the perfect texture contrast.
2. Prevent Lumps in the Filling – Whisk the dry ingredients well before adding the milk. Stir constantly while cooking to prevent scorching or clumping. If needed, strain the filling before pouring it into the crust for a silky-smooth texture.
3. Temper the Egg Yolks – Slowly adding hot filling to the yolks prevents them from scrambling. Always whisk vigorously when combining the two to ensure a smooth, creamy custard.
4. Make a Sturdy Meringue – Room temperature egg whites whip up faster and hold their shape better. Adding sugar gradually while beating helps create a glossy, stable meringue.
5. Seal the Meringue to the Crust – Spread the meringue all the way to the edges of the crust to prevent shrinking or weeping. This creates an airtight seal, keeping moisture out.
6. Bake Until Golden – Keep an eye on the meringue while baking. It should be lightly golden and firm to the touch. If needed, tent with foil to prevent over-browning.
7. Cooling Matters – Let the pie cool at room temperature before chilling in the fridge for at least 3-4 hours. This ensures clean slices and allows flavors to meld beautifully.
8. For Extra Shine – A quick pass of a kitchen torch over the meringue adds an irresistible golden finish!

Conservation and Storage Tips for Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie

1. Refrigeration is Key – Since this pie contains a custard filling and meringue topping, it must be refrigerated once cooled. Let it sit at room temperature for 1 hour, then cover loosely with plastic wrap or foil and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
2. Avoid Soggy Meringue – Meringue tends to absorb moisture over time, which can cause it to weep or become rubbery. To prevent this, store the pie in a container with a few toothpicks inserted under the wrap to keep it from touching the meringue.
3. Do Not Freeze – Freezing is not recommended for this pie, as the custard filling can become grainy, and the meringue may separate or turn rubbery upon thawing. If you need to make it ahead, consider preparing just the chocolate filling, refrigerating it for up to 2 days, and adding the meringue fresh before serving.
4. Serving After Refrigeration – Cold chocolate pie is delicious, but for the best texture and flavor, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps soften the custard slightly for a smooth, creamy bite.
5. Leftovers? Repurpose Them! – If the meringue starts to soften, don’t waste the pie! Scoop the filling into parfaits with crushed cookies or serve as a rich chocolate pudding with whipped cream.
6. Best Enjoyed Fresh – For optimal taste and texture, eat within 48 hours while the crust is still crisp and the meringue is fluffy.

Serving Suggestions for Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie

1. Classic and Simple – Serve this chilled or slightly room temperature for the perfect creamy texture. A slice on its own is pure nostalgia, but a little extra flair never hurts!
2. Whipped Cream Upgrade – While the meringue adds a light, airy touch, a dollop of freshly whipped cream makes each bite even more indulgent. Add a sprinkle of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings for extra elegance.
3. Chocolate Lover’s Dream – Drizzle a bit of warm chocolate ganache over the top before serving for an even richer experience. A few mini chocolate chips or grated dark chocolate add a satisfying crunch.
4. Berry Bliss – Balance the pie’s richness with fresh berries. Serve with a side of strawberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a refreshing contrast. A spoonful of berry compote works beautifully, too!
5. Crunch Factor – A scoop of crushed nuts like toasted pecans, walnuts, or hazelnuts on top adds an irresistible texture. Try a salted caramel drizzle for a sweet-salty twist!
6. Ice Cream Pairing – A slice of this pie with vanilla bean ice cream is an unbeatable combo. Want to take it up a notch? Try espresso, chocolate, or caramel swirl ice cream for a next-level treat.
7. Coffee or Wine Pairing – Enjoy with a hot cup of coffee or espresso to complement the deep chocolate flavor. If serving at a dinner party, a glass of port wine or a bold red like Cabernet Sauvignon pairs beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie

1. Can I use a store-bought pie crust?

Yes! A pre-made, fully baked pie crust works just fine. However, for the best flavor and texture, a homemade buttery crust is highly recommended.

2. How do I prevent lumps in the chocolate filling?

Whisk the dry ingredients thoroughly before adding the milk. Stir constantly over medium heat and consider straining the custard before pouring it into the crust for a perfectly smooth texture.

3. My meringue is weeping how do I fix this?

To prevent a weepy meringue:

• Make sure the sugar is fully dissolved when whipping.
• Spread the meringue all the way to the crust to seal in moisture.
• Bake until golden brown, then cool the pie gradually at room temperature.

4. Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes! The chocolate filling can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the fridge. Add the meringue topping fresh before serving for the best texture.

5. How long does this pie last?

Stored in the fridge, it’s best enjoyed within 48 hours, but it can last up to 3 days if properly covered.

6. Can I freeze this pie?

No, freezing is not recommended as the custard can turn grainy, and the meringue may become rubbery.

7. What’s the best way to serve it?

Chilled or slightly room temperature, paired with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!

Conclusion: A Timeless Dessert to Savor

Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie with Golden Meringue is a true classic, bringing back memories of home-cooked meals, family gatherings, and comforting flavors. With its rich, velvety chocolate filling, flaky crust, and light, airy meringue, this dessert offers the perfect balance of indulgence and nostalgia.

Whether you’re making it for a holiday, special occasion, or just because, this pie is sure to impress. The process may require a bit of patience—from tempering the egg yolks to whipping up the perfect meringue—but the result is absolutely worth it. Each bite melts in your mouth, delivering the deep cocoa flavor that chocolate lovers crave, all while being complemented by the delicate sweetness of the meringue.

This pie is best enjoyed fresh, but with the right storage techniques, you can savor it for a couple of days. Pair it with whipped cream, berries, or ice cream, and you have a dessert that’s both elegant and comforting. Whether served at a family dinner, a potluck, or a festive gathering, it’s bound to be the star of the table.

So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and create a beautiful, homemade dessert that’s stood the test of time. With the right techniques and a little love, you’ll have a chocolate pie that’s as delicious as it is nostalgic one that will keep your guests coming back for more!

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