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Classic Chocolate Cream Pie

A delicious slice of chocolate cream pie topped with a generous swirl of whipped cream on a white plate.

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A foolproof recipe for a classic diner-style chocolate cream pie with a crisp crust, silky chocolate custard, and fluffy whipped cream.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3 cups milk
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the pie crust for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let it cool completely.
  2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the granulated sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt.
  3. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
  4. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil. Boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Gradually whisk about 1 cup of the hot chocolate mixture into the egg yolks to temper them.
  6. Pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining chocolate mixture. Cook, stirring constantly, for 2 more minutes. Do not boil.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until the butter is melted and the filling is smooth.
  8. Pour the chocolate filling into the cooled pie crust. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the filling to prevent a skin from forming. Chill for at least 3 hours, or until firm.
  9. In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
  10. Spread the whipped cream over the chilled chocolate filling just before serving.

Notes

  • For an extra rich chocolate flavor, use a good quality cocoa powder.
  • Ensure you stir the custard constantly to prevent lumps.
  • Chill the pie thoroughly for the best texture.

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