Description
A classic Southern dessert featuring rich chocolate custard topped with fluffy meringue in a buttery pie crust. Perfect for holidays or nostalgic gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 3/4 cups whole milk
- 4 egg yolks
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 egg whites
- 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
- 6 tbsp granulated sugar (for meringue)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, flour, cornstarch, salt, and cocoa powder.
- Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble.
- In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks. Temper the yolks by slowly adding a bit of the hot chocolate mixture, then return the mixture to the saucepan.
- Continue cooking for 2–3 more minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and butter until smooth.
- Pour the chocolate filling into the pre-baked pie crust and spread evenly.
- In a clean bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add the sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the meringue over the hot filling, sealing the edges to the crust to prevent shrinking.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 12–15 minutes or until the meringue is golden brown.
- Let the pie cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.
Notes
- Add a pinch of cinnamon to the chocolate filling for a spiced twist.
- Use dark chocolate or chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
- Top with chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder for extra elegance.
- Substitute a graham cracker crust for a different texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop and Oven
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 110mg