Few desserts bring comfort and nostalgia quite like an Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie. With its flaky, buttery crust and silky smooth chocolate filling, this classic treat has been a staple in Southern kitchens for generations. Every bite is rich, velvety, and filled with the warmth of home—making it a dessert that feels as timeless as the memories it creates.
This chocolate pie is loved not only for its decadent flavor but also for its simplicity. With just a handful of pantry ingredients, you can create a pie that looks elegant, tastes luxurious, and is always a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for holidays, family dinners, or whenever you’re craving a little chocolate indulgence, this pie is sure to win hearts at the table.
What is Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie?
Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie is a traditional Southern dessert made from scratch with butter, sugar, cocoa, and milk. The filling is thickened on the stovetop, poured into a baked pie crust, then chilled until perfectly set. Unlike more elaborate desserts, this pie’s charm lies in its simplicity and rich flavor, proving that sometimes the best recipes are the ones passed down from our grandmothers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✨ Rich & Creamy: The chocolate filling is smooth, velvety, and indulgent.
✨ Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples you likely already have.
✨ Family-Friendly: Loved by both kids and adults alike.
✨ Customizable: Delicious as-is, or top it with whipped cream, ice cream, or fresh berries.
Ingredients
To make this classic pie, you’ll need:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup milk
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). - Bake the Pie Crust
Bake your pie crust according to package directions or your favorite homemade method. Let it cool completely. - Make the Filling
In a medium saucepan, whisk together melted butter, sugar, cocoa powder, and flour until smooth. - Add Wet Ingredients
Slowly whisk in the beaten eggs and milk until fully combined. - Cook Until Thickened
Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly, for 5–7 minutes, or until the filling thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. - Flavor Boost
Stir in the vanilla extract. - Assemble the Pie
Pour the hot chocolate filling into the cooled pie crust and spread evenly. - Chill
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully set. - Serve & Enjoy
Slice and serve chilled with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or fresh fruit.
Serving Ideas
This pie pairs beautifully with:
- Fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, or cherries)
- A dollop of whipped cream
- A scoop of vanilla or mint chocolate chip ice cream
- Hot coffee or a glass of cold milk
Tips for the Perfect Pie
- Use high-quality cocoa powder for the best flavor.
- Stir continuously while cooking the filling to avoid lumps.
- Let the pie cool completely before refrigerating.
- Add fun toppings like crushed cookies, caramel drizzle, or flavored whipped cream for a twist.
Storage & Freezing
- Refrigerator: Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze slices in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Final Thoughts
The Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie is more than just dessert—it’s a piece of tradition. Whether served at a holiday dinner, a family gathering, or simply to satisfy your chocolate craving, this pie delivers every time. Simple, nostalgic, and oh-so-delicious, it’s one recipe you’ll return to again and again.