Chocolate Chess Pie
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 55–60 minutes
Total Time: About 3 hours 15 minutes, plus overnight chilling if desired
Total Time: About 3 hours 15 minutes, plus overnight chilling if desired
Servings: 8
Category: Dessert
Notes After Making
Ingredients
- 1 premade deep-dish pie crust, unbaked
- 1½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons (21g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs, room temperature, beaten
- 4 tablespoons (57g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 5 oz (⅔ cup) evaporated milk or half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, cocoa powder, and salt.
- Add the beaten eggs, evaporated milk or half-and-half, melted butter, and vanilla. Mix just until combined.
- Pour the filling into the unbaked pie crust.
- Place the pie on the center rack and bake for 10 minutes.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F and continue baking for 45–50 minutes, or until the pie is set around the edges with a slight jiggle remaining in the center.
- Remove the pie from the oven and place it on a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely to room temperature, about 1½–2 hours.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing so the filling can fully set. If possible, refrigerate overnight for the best texture.
Jessica’s Notes
Best Served With
- Serve chilled or slightly chilled with whipped cream.
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream makes a delicious contrast to the rich chocolate filling.
- Fresh raspberries or strawberries add a bright, slightly tart contrast.
Prep Ahead
- This pie is ideal for making a day ahead.
- For the best texture, refrigerate overnight before serving.
Storage
- Cover tightly or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.
Freezer-Friendly
- Wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and place in a large freezer bag.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Variations
- Add ½ teaspoon espresso powder to intensify the chocolate flavor.
- Top with lightly sweetened whipped cream and chocolate shavings.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper for a subtle Mexican chocolate variation.
- Sprinkle the top with flaky sea salt before serving.
