Old Fashioned Chocolate Delight (Printer-Friendly)

Rich chocolate pudding with flaky crust and whipped cream topping, ideal for festive gatherings and celebrations.

# What You'll Need:

→ Crust

01 - 1 nine-inch deep dish pie shell, blind baked

→ Filling

02 - ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
03 - ¼ cup cornstarch
04 - 3 egg yolks, beaten
05 - 1½ cups granulated white sugar
06 - ¼ teaspoon salt
07 - 2 cups 1% milk
08 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Topping

09 - 2 cups heavy whipping cream (33-35% fat)
10 - 2 to 4 tablespoons granulated sugar
11 - Optional garnishes: additional cocoa powder, chocolate shavings, dark chocolate pieces

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Blind bake the pie shell by pricking the bottom with a fork or using pie weights, then bake at 400°F for 8 to 10 minutes until golden brown. Allow to cool completely.
02 - In a medium saucepan, whisk together cocoa powder, cornstarch, beaten egg yolks, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
03 - Gradually stir in milk over medium heat. Cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens significantly, approximately 14 to 19 minutes, reaching a pudding-like consistency and 160°F internal temperature. Remove from heat and cool for about 10 minutes.
04 - Pour the warm chocolate filling into the cooled pie crust. Refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours until firm.
05 - Using an electric mixer at high speed, beat the heavy cream to soft peaks. Add 2 tablespoons sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
06 - Spread the whipped cream evenly over the chilled pie. Garnish with optional cocoa powder, chocolate shavings, and pieces of dark chocolate as desired.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - Avoid overcooking the filling to prevent it from becoming dense or separating. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure filling reaches 160°F.
02 - Chill the pie thoroughly before topping to ensure proper setting.
03 - Leftover pie should be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Freeze without whipped topping and add it just before serving.