Grandma’s Chocolate Pie – Old-Fashioned Creamy Southern Classic

Introduction

Grandma’s Chocolate Pie is the kind of dessert that instantly brings back memories of cozy kitchens, handwritten recipe cards, and family gatherings around the table. This classic pie is rich, smooth, and deeply chocolatey, with a custard-style filling that sets perfectly inside a flaky pie crust. It’s simple, comforting, and made with pantry staples—just the way grandma used to make it.

Unlike modern chocolate pies loaded with toppings and extras, this old-fashioned version focuses on flavor and texture. The filling is cooked gently on the stovetop until thick and silky, then poured into a baked crust and chilled until sliceable. The result is a pie that’s creamy without being heavy and sweet without being overwhelming.

This recipe has stood the test of time because it works. It’s reliable, budget-friendly, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether served at Sunday dinner, holidays, potlucks, or just because, Grandma’s Chocolate Pie is pure nostalgia in every bite.

Ingredients
For the Pie Filling

1 baked 9-inch pie crust

1 cup granulated sugar

¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

¼ cup cornstarch

¼ teaspoon salt

3 cups whole milk

3 large egg yolks

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Optional Topping

Whipped cream or meringue

Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

Bake the pie crust according to package or homemade instructions until fully baked and lightly golden. Set aside to cool completely.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. Make sure there are no lumps for a smooth filling.

Step 3: Add Milk and Cook

Slowly whisk in the milk. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture begins to thicken and bubble. This can take 6–8 minutes. Do not stop stirring to avoid scorching.

Step 4: Temper the Egg Yolks

In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly add a few spoonfuls of the hot chocolate mixture into the yolks while whisking constantly. This prevents the eggs from scrambling. Pour the tempered yolks back into the saucepan.

Step 5: Finish the Filling

Continue cooking for 1–2 more minutes until thick and glossy. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla until smooth. Pour the filling into the baked pie crust and smooth the top.

Variation

Chocolate Meringue Pie: Top with classic meringue and bake until golden.

Extra Rich Version: Replace 1 cup of milk with heavy cream.

Dark Chocolate Pie: Use dark cocoa powder for deeper flavor.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie: Swirl melted peanut butter into the filling.

No-Crust Version: Pour into ramekins for chocolate pudding cups.

Cooking Note

Constant stirring is essential for a smooth, lump-free filling. Use a whisk or silicone spatula and scrape the bottom of the pan frequently to prevent sticking or burning.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Grandma’s Chocolate Pie chilled with a generous dollop of whipped cream. It pairs beautifully with coffee, milk, or hot tea. For holidays, add chocolate shavings or a light dusting of cocoa powder on top.

Tips

Use whole milk for the creamiest texture.

Let the pie chill at least 4 hours before slicing.

Cover with plastic wrap touching the surface to prevent skin.

Slice with a clean knife for neat servings.

Store leftovers in the refrigerator.

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cooking Time

15 minutes

Total Time

4 hours 30 minutes (including chilling)

Nutritional Information (Approximate per slice)

Calories: 360

Protein: 6 g

Sodium: 210 mg

FAQs

Is this the same as chocolate cream pie?
Yes, this is a traditional chocolate cream-style pie made with cocoa and milk.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely. It’s best made a day ahead to fully set.

Why is my filling runny?
It likely didn’t cook long enough. The mixture must bubble and thicken before removing from heat.

Can I use chocolate chips instead of cocoa powder?
Yes, but cocoa powder gives the most classic flavor.

Can this pie be frozen?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture can change.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Chocolate Pie is a true classic that proves simple recipes are often the best. With its smooth, creamy chocolate filling and flaky crust, this pie delivers comfort, nostalgia, and timeless flavor in every slice. Whether you’re honoring family traditions or creating new ones, this old-fashioned dessert deserves a place on your table—and in your recipe box—for generations to come 🍫🥧

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