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Imagine walking into your kitchen and breathing in the sweet aroma of a freshly baked pie cooling on the counter. The scent of rich chocolate mingling with a hint of vanilla wafts through the air, instantly transporting you back to childhood memories of family gatherings and joyful laughter. This Old Fashion Chocolate Pie is more than just dessert; it’s a delightful journey back in time, reminiscent of the classic pies that Grandma used to make.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Old Fashion Chocolate Pie is a timeless classic. The luscious chocolate custard filling is perfectly balanced by the light, airy meringue topping and a tender, flaky crust. It’s a recipe that has been cherished through generations and continues to bring smiles to faces with each bite. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, allowing you to enjoy a taste of nostalgia without spending all day in the kitchen.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Whisk
- Pie dish
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 cup sugar
- 6 tbsp flour
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 egg yolks
- 2 1/2 cups milk
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 egg whites
- 1 tbsp corn starch
- 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
- 6 tbsp sugar (for meringue)
- Pre-made pie crust
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup sugar, 6 tbsp flour, 1/8 tsp salt, and 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder. Mix well and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, separate 2 egg yolks, reserving the whites for later. Add 2 1/2 cups milk to the yolks and beat together.
- Pour the egg and milk mixture into the saucepan with the dry ingredients. Add 4 tbsp butter.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and whisk continuously until the mixture begins to boil and thickens to a pudding-like consistency. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract, then pour the chocolate custard into the pre-made pie crust.
- For the meringue, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a large bowl, add the reserved egg whites and one additional egg white (3 in total). Add 1 tbsp corn starch and 1/4 tsp cream of tartar. Beat on high speed until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add 6 tbsp sugar to the egg whites, one tablespoon at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition.
- Spoon the meringue over the chocolate custard, ensuring it touches the edges of the crust to prevent shrinking.
- Bake in the oven until the meringue is golden brown, about 10-12 minutes. Let cool before serving.
Tips for Success
- Ensure all equipment is clean and dry before making the meringue for the best results.
- Be careful not to overbeat the egg whites, as they should have soft peaks for a tender meringue.
- Allow the pie to cool completely before serving to give the custard time to set.
Additional Tips and Variations
- For a deeper chocolate flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of espresso powder to the custard mixture.
- Top with chocolate shavings or cocoa powder for an extra touch of elegance.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Protein: 6g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a store-bought pie crust? Yes, a store-bought pie crust works perfectly for this recipe.
Can I make this pie ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the pie a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
How should I store leftovers? Cover the pie with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
This Old Fashion Chocolate Pie is a delightful dessert that is sure to become a family favorite. With its rich custard and fluffy meringue, it’s a pie that brings comfort and joy in every slice. I invite you to try this recipe and create your own sweet memories. Don’t forget to share your experiences and any delicious variations you come up with!
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