The Ultimate Chocolate Pie Recipe – Smooth, Creamy, and Perfect

This old-fashioned chocolate pie is the ultimate comfort dessert—smooth, creamy, and packed with deep chocolate flavor. Topped with a light and fluffy meringue, it’s a true Southern classic, perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or whenever you’re craving a nostalgic sweet treat.

This recipe is simple yet irresistible, with a rich chocolate filling nestled in a buttery pie crust. Whether you grew up with chocolate pie or are trying it for the first time, this dessert is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients for Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie

Pie Crust

• 1 9-inch pie crust (store-bought, frozen, refrigerated, or homemade)

Chocolate Pie Filling

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
• 2 heaping tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 heaping tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 ¼ cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 3 egg yolks (save the whites for the meringue)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Meringue Topping

• 4 egg whites
• ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar (optional, but helps stabilize)
• ¼ cup sugar

Substitutions & Variations

• Swap whole milk for evaporated milk for a richer flavor.
• Use dark cocoa powder for a more intense chocolate taste.
• Replace the traditional crust with an Oreo or graham cracker crust for a fun twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pie Crust

1. If using a frozen crust, let it thaw before baking.
2. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and bake the pie crust for 10-15 minutes until lightly golden brown.
3. If using a homemade crust, poke holes in the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling.
4. Set the baked crust aside to cool.

2. Make the Chocolate Filling

1. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, and cocoa powder until well combined.
2. Pour in the milk, vanilla extract, and egg yolks, then mix with a hand mixer until smooth.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
4. Pour the chocolate mixture into the skillet, stirring constantly. Cook until the filling thickens (this happens quickly, so stay close!).
5. Once thickened, transfer the filling to a clean bowl and beat one more time to remove any lumps.
6. Pour the chocolate filling into the baked pie shell and set aside.

3. Prepare the Meringue

1. In a large, dry mixing bowl, add the egg whites.
2. Sprinkle in the cream of tartar and beat with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
3. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to beat until the meringue is shiny and forms stiff peaks.
4. Spread the meringue over the chocolate filling, smoothing it out to the edges.

4. Bake and Set the Pie

1. Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown.
2. Let the pie cool for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the filling to set.

Storage & Reheating Tips

How to Store Chocolate Pie

• Refrigerate: Store the pie in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Avoid covering it with plastic wrap directly on the meringue, as it can cause it to weep. Instead, use a pie carrier or a loose tent of foil.
• Freeze: Chocolate pie without the meringue can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before adding fresh meringue and baking.

How to Reheat

• Serve chilled or at room temperature. Chocolate pie tastes best when fully set.
• If you want a warm slice, heat it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds (without meringue).

Troubleshooting & Tips

Why Is My Chocolate Pie Runny?

• The filling may not have cooked long enough. Make sure it thickens in the pan before removing it.
• Using too little flour can cause a thinner consistency—be sure to measure correctly.

How Do I Keep Meringue from Weeping?

• Use room temperature egg whites for the fluffiest meringue.
• Make sure the mixing bowl and beaters are completely dry—any water or grease can prevent stiff peaks.
• Spread meringue over warm filling, ensuring it touches the crust edges to create a seal.

Chocolate Pie Variations & Serving Suggestions

Fun Variations

• Chocolate Lover’s Dream – Add chocolate chips to the filling for an extra indulgent touch.
• Nutty Delight – Sprinkle toasted pecans or almond slivers over the meringue for a crunch.
• Mocha Twist – Stir 1 teaspoon of espresso powder into the filling for a deep, rich flavor.
• No Meringue? No Problem! – Skip the meringue and top with whipped cream or a dusting of cocoa powder.

Serving Ideas

• Pair with a dollop of whipped cream and chocolate shavings.
• Serve warm or chilled with a drizzle of caramel sauce.
• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate treat.

FAQs

Can I Use a Different Crust?

Yes! You can use an Oreo crust for a chocolatey twist or a graham cracker crust for a sweet contrast.

Why Didn’t My Meringue Get Fluffy?

• If any egg yolk got into the whites, it can prevent them from whipping properly.
• Beaters and bowls must be completely clean and dry.
• Adding sugar too early can slow down the process—wait until soft peaks form first.

How Long Does Chocolate Pie Last?

• It’s best enjoyed within 3 days when refrigerated.

Can I Make It Ahead of Time?

• You can prepare the chocolate filling a day in advance, then add the meringue and bake before serving.

Classic Homemade Chocolate Pie

This homemade chocolate pie is a rich and creamy dessert with a deep chocolate flavor, nestled in a flaky pie crust and topped with fluffy meringue. A Southern classic, perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for something indulgent and nostalgic!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Chilling Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 35 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 8 slices

Calories 1397 kcal

Equipment

• Medium mixing bowl
• Large skillet or saucepan
• Whisk
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Pie dish (9-inch)
• Spatula
• Oven

Ingredients

  

• For the Pie Crust:
• 1 9- inch pie crust store-bought or homemade
• For the Chocolate Filling:
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
• 2 heaping tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 heaping tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 ¼ cups milk whole or 2%
• 3 egg yolks save the whites for meringue
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the Meringue Topping:
• 4 egg whites
• ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar optional, helps stability
• ¼ cup sugar

Instructions

 

• Bake the Pie Crust
• If using a frozen crust, let it thaw.
• Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
• Bake crust for 10-15 minutes until golden. Set aside.
• Prepare the Chocolate Filling
• In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, and cocoa powder.
• Add milk, vanilla extract, and egg yolks. Beat until smooth.
• In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter.
• Pour in the chocolate mixture, stirring constantly, until thickened.
• Transfer filling to a clean bowl and beat again to remove lumps.
• Pour the mixture into the baked pie crust.
• Make the Meringue
• In a dry mixing bowl, add egg whites.
• Add cream of tartar and beat until soft peaks form.
• Slowly add sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
• Spread meringue over the pie, ensuring it touches the crust edges.
• Bake & Cool
• Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 10-15 minutes until meringue is golden.
• Let the pie cool for at least 1 hour before serving.

Notes

Don’t rush the filling! It needs to fully thicken on the stove.
Use room temperature egg whites for the fluffiest meringue.
Storage: Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Want a twist? Try a graham cracker crust or Oreo crust instead!

Keyword Best Chocolate Pie Recipe, Chocolate Pie Recipe, Homemade Chocolate Pie, Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie, Southern Chocolate Meringue Pie

Final Thoughts & Call-to-Action

This classic homemade chocolate pie is the perfect blend of nostalgia and indulgence. With its rich, creamy filling and light, fluffy meringue, it’s a dessert that brings warmth and tradition to any table. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering, a special occasion, or just a weeknight treat, this pie is sure to impress!

Did You Try This Recipe?

• We’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below and let us know:
• ✅ How did your chocolate pie turn out?
• ✅ Did you make any variations?
• ✅ Do you have a favorite childhood memory of chocolate pie?

📸 Share your pie on social media! Tag us and use #HomemadeChocolatePie so we can see your delicious creation.

🔹 Craving more classic desserts? Check out similar recipes like Chocolate Chess Pie, French Silk Pie, or No-Bake Chocolate Pie for even more chocolatey goodness!

Enjoy your delicious homemade chocolate pie, and happy baking! 🍫🥧🎉