Description
Chocolate Chess Pie is a rich, decadent dessert with a creamy, fudgy filling and a flaky crust. This classic Southern recipe is incredibly easy to make and delivers an irresistible chocolate flavor in every bite. Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or just a sweet treat for yourself, this pie is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 pie crust, store-bought or homemade
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon instant espresso powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 2/3 cup evaporated milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Lightly sweetened whipped cream for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Crust and Oven:
If you plan to blind bake the crust, preheat the oven to 400°F. Otherwise, preheat to 350°F. Roll out the pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan, crimping the edges. If your crust gets too warm, refrigerate it for 10 minutes before proceeding. - Blind Bake the Crust (Optional):
Line the crust with aluminum foil sprayed with cooking spray, oiled side down. Fill with pie weights or dried beans and bake for 10 minutes. Remove the foil and weights, then bake for another 5 minutes until the crust looks dry. Cool for 15–30 minutes. Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F. - Make the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, cocoa powder, espresso powder (if using), and salt. Add melted butter, evaporated milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined. - Assemble and Bake the Pie:
Pour the filling into the prepared crust and transfer the pie to the bottom rack of the oven. Bake at 350°F for 40–45 minutes or until the center is just set (it should jiggle slightly when nudged). - Cool and Serve:
Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before serving. Serve as-is or topped with lightly sweetened whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
Notes
-
- Blind Baking Tip: If you prefer a crisp crust, blind baking is highly recommended.
- Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. The pie tastes great cold or at room temperature.
- Freezing Instructions: Cool the pie completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
- Customization: For an extra flavor boost, add a splash of bourbon or swap espresso powder with cinnamon for a spicy twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern