Description
Classic Chocolate Cream Pie
Try this Classic Chocolate Cream Pie! Rich, smooth, and topped with golden meringue, it’s a dessert that’s hard to resist.
Have a slice and let us know what you think!
Ingredients:
1 baked pie crust
1 cup sugar
1/3 cup cornstarch
1/2 tsp salt
3 cups milk
4 oz dark chocolate, chopped
3 egg yolks
1 tbsp butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
Meringue topping
Instructions:
Combine sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Whisk in milk gradually.
Heat until thickened, add chocolate until melted.
Temper egg yolks and return to pot, cook for 2 minutes.
Stir in butter and vanilla, pour into crust, and chill.
Top with meringue and toast until golden.
#ClassicChocoPie
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect pie. First, ensure your pie crust is fully baked and cooled. In a medium saucepan, thoroughly whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt. This prevents lumps. Gradually whisk in the cold milk until the mixture is completely smooth. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble, about 8-10 minutes.
Remove from heat and immediately add the chopped dark chocolate. Let it sit for one minute, then whisk until the chocolate is fully melted and the filling is uniform. In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks. To temper them, slowly whisk about 1 cup of the hot chocolate mixture into the yolks. Then, slowly pour the yolk mixture back into the saucepan, whisking constantly. Return the pot to medium-low heat and cook for exactly 2 more minutes, whisking non-stop, to cook the yolks. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Pour the hot filling directly into the cooled pie shell. Immediately press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the filling to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until completely set, before adding the meringue.
Serving Suggestions
Serve each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. For a festive touch, garnish with chocolate shavings, a dusting of cocoa powder, or a few fresh raspberries. This pie pairs wonderfully with a cup of strong black coffee or a glass of cold milk.
How-to Summary
Whisk dry ingredients, then milk. Cook until thick. Melt in chocolate. Temper egg yolks into the hot mix and cook 2 more minutes. Finish with butter and vanilla. Pour into a baked crust, chill until set, then top with meringue and toast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pie without meringue? Absolutely. You can top the chilled pie with sweetened whipped cream instead. Add the whipped cream just before serving.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark? Yes, but the pie will be significantly sweeter. Reduce the sugar in the filling by 2-3 tablespoons if using milk chocolate.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover pie, covered loosely, in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Note that meringue may start to weep or soften over time.
What does “temper the egg yolks” mean? It means slowly warming the yolks by adding hot liquid a little at a time. This prevents them from scrambling when added to the hot pudding.
Can I make this pie a day ahead? Yes, you can prepare the filled crust and chill it overnight. Add and toast the meringue the day you plan to serve it for the best texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not whisking constantly while cooking, leading to a lumpy filling or scorched bottom.
- Adding the egg yolks directly to the hot pot without tempering, causing them to curdle.
- Under-cooking the filling after adding the yolks, which can result in a starchy taste and unsafe eggs.
- Pouring the meringue onto a cold filling, which can cause it to separate; the filling should be cold, but the meringue should be spread on just before toasting.
Conclusion
This Classic Chocolate Cream Pie is a timeless dessert that balances rich chocolate flavor with a light, toasted meringue. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create an impressive, crowd-pleasing treat. Its make-ahead flexibility and decadent taste make it perfect for any occasion. We hope you enjoy every creamy, chocolatey bite!