Grandma’s Chocolate Pie

A classic dessert that combines a rich chocolate filling with a buttery pie crust and a light whipped cream topping. Perfect for special occasions or a sweet treat anytime!

Ingredients

For the Pie Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into pieces
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2-3 tablespoons ice water

For the Chocolate Filling:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 2 3/4 cups milk
• 4 large egg yolks
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Whipped Cream Topping:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat Oven:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch pie dish.

1. Prepare the Pie Crust:

• In a large bowl, mix flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, stirring until the dough comes together.
• Roll out the dough on a floured surface and fit it into the prepared pie dish. Trim and crimp the edges. Prick the bottom with a fork.
• Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool completely.

1. Make the Chocolate Filling:

• In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth.
• Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble. Remove from heat.
• In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks. Gradually whisk in about 1/2 cup of the hot chocolate mixture into the egg yolks. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook for an additional 2 minutes, whisking constantly.
• Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract. Pour the filling into the cooled pie crust.

1. Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping:

• In a chilled bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chocolate filling.

1. Chill and Serve:

• Chill the pie in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Baking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Chilling Time: 4 hours
• Total Time: 5 hours 50 minutes
• Servings: 8 slices

Variations

• Nutty Crust: Add crushed nuts to the pie crust for extra texture.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Add a tablespoon of liqueur or a few drops of flavored extract to the whipped cream.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep the pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: Serve chilled or at room temperature. No need to reheat.

FAQs

1. Can I use a store-bought pie crust?
   Yes, a store-bought pie crust can be used as a time-saver.
2. How do I prevent the filling from becoming lumpy?
   Ensure to whisk constantly while cooking to prevent lumps.
3. Can I use a different type of chocolate?
   Yes, you can use milk chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate if you prefer a sweeter filling.
4. How do I know when the filling is thick enough?
   The filling should be thickened to a pudding-like consistency and should coat the back of a spoon.
5. Can I make this pie in advance?
   Yes, this pie can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
6. How can I make the whipped cream more stable?
   Chill the mixing bowl and beaters before whipping and use heavy cream for better stability.
7. What can I do if the pie crust shrinks during baking?
   Ensure the dough is well chilled before baking and avoid stretching it while fitting it into the pan.
8. Can I freeze this pie?
   Yes, freeze the pie (without the whipped cream) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
9. How should I serve the pie?
   Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
10. Can I add a layer of fruit or nuts to the pie?
    Yes, adding a layer of fruit or nuts can provide extra flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Chocolate Pie is a classic dessert that combines rich chocolate filling with a buttery crust and a light whipped cream topping. Perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to please chocolate lovers and make any meal feel special.

Print