Chocolate Chess Pie

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Chocolate Chess Pie is pure Southern comfort in dessert form. With its silky, fudgy center and a thin crackly top baked into a buttery pie crust, this pie is rich, nostalgic, and completely irresistible. It’s the kind of dessert that wins hearts at potlucks, holidays, or cozy weekend dinners. One bite and you’re taken straight to a world of deep chocolate bliss paired with that old-fashioned custard charm.

The best part? It’s incredibly simple to make using pantry staples, yet the flavor is anything but basic. Think of it as a brownie meets custard, all baked into a golden crust. Whether you serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream or chilled straight from the fridge, Chocolate Chess Pie is a timeless treat that turns any meal into something memorable.

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Ingredients for Chocolate Chess Pie

• 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
• 1½ cups granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup evaporated milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

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Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place your unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan, crimping the edges as desired. Set it aside while you prepare the filling.

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Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and salt until evenly combined and free of lumps. This helps ensure the chocolate flavor is smooth and consistent throughout the pie.

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Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Add the eggs to the dry mixture and whisk until fully incorporated. Then pour in the evaporated milk and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Finally, add the melted butter and stir gently until everything is well blended and glossy.

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Step 4: Fill the Crust

Pour the chocolate mixture into the prepared pie crust. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, making sure it reaches all the way to the edges.

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Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Carefully transfer the pie to the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. The top should develop a shiny, cracked crust—just like a good brownie.

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Step 6: Cool Before Serving

Allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature. This helps the custard filling set properly. For a firmer texture, chill it in the refrigerator for an hour or two before slicing.

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Storage Instructions

Chocolate Chess Pie stores beautifully, making it an excellent make-ahead dessert. Once the pie has cooled completely:

• Room Temperature: It can sit out for up to 1 day, loosely covered with foil or plastic wrap.
• Refrigerator: Store it in an airtight container or wrapped well with plastic wrap for up to 5 days. The texture becomes even fudgier when chilled!
• Freezer: You can freeze individual slices or the whole pie. Wrap in plastic wrap and then foil, and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Slice, based on 8 servings)

• Calories: 410
• Total Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Cholesterol: 95mg
• Sodium: 160mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 45g
• Sugars: 35g
• Protein: 4g

Note: Nutrition may vary depending on exact ingredients and portion sizes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a Chess Pie different from other pies?

Chess Pie is a classic Southern dessert known for its simple ingredients and custard-like texture. The addition of cornmeal or flour and evaporated milk sets it apart, creating a distinct filling that’s rich and sweet.

Can I use milk instead of evaporated milk?

Evaporated milk gives the filling a deeper, creamier consistency. Regular milk can work in a pinch, but the texture will be slightly looser and less rich.

Do I need to pre-bake the crust?

No, the pie bakes all at once. Using an unbaked pie crust is standard, as the long bake time cooks both the crust and filling evenly.

Why is it called “Chess Pie”?

The origin is debated, but many believe it comes from “just pie” being misheard as “chess pie.” Others think it’s because it was stored in a pie chest or had ingredients that kept well in the “chess.”

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free pie crust and check that your cocoa powder and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

What can I top it with?

A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the rich chocolate filling. A sprinkle of sea salt or a drizzle of caramel also adds a nice twist.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

The pie is done when the edges are set and the center still has a slight jiggle. It will firm up more as it cools. The top should have a signature crackle finish.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Chocolate Chess Pie tastes even better the next day. Just chill it overnight and let it come to room temperature before serving if you prefer a softer texture.

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