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Foolproof Classic Chocolate Chess Pie Recipe

Close-up of a rich, dark slice of chocolate chess pie with a flaky crust on a white plate.

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Make this Old Fashioned Chocolate Chess Pie for a rich, gooey center and a signature crackly top. This Southern dessert uses simple pantry staples for a decadent, easy-to-bake treat.

Ingredients

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  • 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust (buttery pie crust recommended)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup light corn syrup
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Place your unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie plate.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and corn syrup until combined.
  3. Add the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract to the sugar mixture. Whisk until the mixture is smooth.
  4. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder and salt. Add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until completely incorporated and you have a uniform chocolate custard base.
  5. If using nuts, stir the chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling.
  6. Pour the chocolate filling into the unbaked pie crust.
  7. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes. The edges of the filling should be set, and the center should still have a slight jiggle, similar to a rich, gooey brownie. The top should develop a crackly surface.
  8. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Cooling allows the fudgy center to set properly.
  9. Serve this comfort food chocolate pie at room temperature or slightly chilled.

Notes

  • For a crackly top, do not overbake. A slight wobble in the center is what you want for that signature fudgy texture.
  • This pie is excellent served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream.
  • If you want to try the Angus Barn Chocolate Pie Clone texture, ensure your butter is fully melted and your eggs are lightly beaten before mixing.

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