Instructions:
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Press the pie dough into a 9-inch pie pan, trimming and crimping the edges if desired.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until lightly golden. Set aside to cool.
- Make the Chocolate Filling:
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together cocoa powder, sugar, flour, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and milk. Gradually pour the milk mixture into the saucepan, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and begins to boil (about 7–10 minutes).
- Remove from heat, then stir in butter and vanilla until smooth.
- Pour the chocolate filling into the pre-baked pie crust.
- Optional Meringue Topping:
- Beat egg whites with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add sugar, beating until stiff, glossy peaks form. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Spread the meringue over the hot chocolate filling, making sure to cover the edges of the crust.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, until the meringue is golden.
- Cool & Serve:
- Let the pie cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set.
Enjoy this classic chocolate pie—perfect for chocolate lovers!
Pro Tips:
- Prevent Lumps: When adding the milk mixture to the dry ingredients, whisk continuously to ensure a smooth filling.
- Perfect Meringue: Use room-temperature egg whites for easier whipping, and make sure there’s no yolk in the whites to get stiff peaks.
- Crust Protection: To avoid the edges of your crust from over-browning, cover them with foil or use a pie shield during baking.
- Set Time: Allow the pie to chill for at least 2 hours in the fridge to fully set before slicing for the best texture.
Variations:
- Chocolate Ganache Topping: Skip the meringue and add a layer of chocolate ganache on top of the cooled pie for an extra decadent finish.
- Whipped Cream: Instead of meringue, top the pie with freshly whipped cream and chocolate shavings.
- Chocolate Coconut Pie: Stir in ½ cup of shredded coconut to the filling for a tropical twist.
- Peppermint Chocolate Pie: Add ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract to the chocolate filling for a refreshing flavor.