Old-Fashioned Chocolate Meringue Pie

Save this recipe on:

A velvety chocolate custard nestled in a flaky pie crust and topped with a cloud of perfectly toasted meringue—this Old-Fashioned Chocolate Meringue Pie is southern nostalgia at its finest. With every bite, you get the richness of cocoa, the comfort of homemade pudding, and the elegant finish of golden peaks. It’s one of those desserts that turns any gathering into a celebration.

Whether you’re baking it for Sunday dinner, a holiday table, or simply to satisfy a deep chocolate craving, this pie promises to deliver comfort and delight. The meringue topping adds just the right amount of sweetness and texture, creating a beautiful contrast to the smooth chocolate filling.

---

What Kind of Crust Works Best for Chocolate Meringue Pie?

A traditional butter pie crust or a classic shortening-based crust are ideal for this dessert. You want something sturdy enough to hold the silky filling without getting soggy. Blind baking the crust until golden ensures it holds up well under the custard and meringue.

---

Ingredients for the Old-Fashioned Chocolate Meringue Pie

• Granulated Sugar – Essential for sweetness in both the filling and the meringue.
• Cornstarch – Helps thicken the chocolate custard to that perfect pudding-like consistency.
• Salt – A pinch enhances the depth of the chocolate flavor.
• Whole Milk – Provides creaminess and richness to the custard.
• Eggs – Yolks enrich the chocolate filling; whites whip up into that signature meringue.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Delivers deep, classic chocolate flavor.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds silkiness and a glossy finish to the custard.
• Vanilla Extract – Infuses warmth and balances the chocolate.
• Prepared Pie Crust – Baked and ready to cradle the luscious filling.
• Cream of Tartar – Helps stabilize the meringue.

---

How To Make the Old-Fashioned Chocolate Meringue Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Pre-bake your pie crust until golden and fully set. Let it cool completely before filling.

Step 2: Make the Chocolate Custard

In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually stir in milk and cook over medium heat until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla. Lightly beat the egg yolks, temper them with a bit of the hot custard, then stir them into the saucepan. Cook a few more minutes until the mixture is smooth and thick.

Step 3: Fill the Pie

Pour the warm chocolate custard into the cooled pie crust. Smooth the top and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Meringue

In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar and continue to beat until stiff, glossy peaks form. Spread meringue over the hot custard, sealing the edges.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake in a 350°F oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the meringue is beautifully golden. Cool completely before slicing.

---

Serving and Storing This Chocolate Pie

Serve this pie at room temperature for the smoothest texture and most balanced flavor. It pairs beautifully with a cup of strong coffee or a splash of cold milk. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, loosely covered, for up to 3 days. The meringue will soften slightly over time but still holds its charm.

---

What to Serve With Chocolate Meringue Pie?

Fresh Berries

Strawberries, raspberries, or blackberries add a fruity contrast to the rich filling.

Whipped Cream

For extra indulgence, add a small dollop on the side.

Hot Coffee or Espresso

A bold brew balances the sweet, creamy richness.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Yes, double dessert is always a yes.

Caramel Drizzle

Adds another layer of sweet and salty flavor.

Toasted Nuts

Try crushed pecans or hazelnuts for crunch.

Peppermint Chips

For a fun seasonal twist around the holidays.

---

Want More Pie Ideas?

If you can’t get enough of silky, show-stopping pies, check out these delicious creations:

• Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie
• Chocolate Chess Pie
• German Chocolate Poke Cake for a fun variation on traditional chocolate pies.
• Salted Caramel Cupcakes if you’re craving caramel-chocolate fusion.
• Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls when you’re in the mood for fruity and creamy.

---

Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe a splash of bourbon or a drizzle of espresso? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: