Grandma’s Chocolate Pie

Here’s a classic recipe for Grandma’s Chocolate Pie, rich, creamy, and perfect for indulging in some comfort food nostalgia:

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 4-5 tablespoons ice water

For the Chocolate Filling:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 3 large egg yolks
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the Meringue (optional):

• 3 large egg whites
• ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar
• ¼ cup granulated sugar

Instructions:

Prepare the Crust:

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix the flour and salt.
2. Add Butter: Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add Water: Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough starts to come together.
4. Roll Out Dough: Shape the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
5. Bake the Crust: Roll out the dough on a floured surface and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan. Trim and crimp the edges. Prick the bottom with a fork and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until golden. Let it cool.

Prepare the Chocolate Filling:

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cocoa powder, flour, and salt.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Gradually whisk in the milk and egg yolks until smooth.
3. Cook Filling: Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble. This should take about 7-10 minutes.
4. Add Butter and Vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Fill the Pie: Pour the filling into the baked pie crust. Smooth the top.

Prepare the Meringue (Optional):

1. Beat Egg Whites: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
2. Add Sugar: Gradually add sugar, one tablespoon at a time, and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
3. Top the Pie: Spread the meringue over the chocolate filling, sealing the edges.
4. Bake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown.

Cool and Serve:

1. Cool: Allow the pie to cool completely, letting the filling set.
2. Serve: Slice and enjoy!

This recipe makes a rich and silky chocolate pie with a flaky homemade crust. It’s perfect for family gatherings or any time you want to enjoy a classic dessert.