Chocolate Chess Pie is a creamy pie with a texture that is firmer than custard and a bit similar to fudgy brownies.
The History of Chess Pie:
Chocolate chess pie is a modern variation on the classic chess pie, which originated in Alabama over 100 years ago. There are several theories to how the name came about. The name “chess” may come from the fact that the pie was often stored in a “pie chest” and enjoyed by Southern gentlemen after dinner while they played chess. Or the name may have come from a mispronunciation of “just pie” or “jes’ pie.” In a Southern drawl, “jus’ pie” might sound like “chess pie.” Or it may have been something else entirely!
Ingredients Needed:
- pie crust
- granulated white sugar
- unsweetened cocoa powder
- evaporated milk
- eggs
- unsalted butter
- vanilla extract
- salt
How to make Chocolate Chess Pie:
The complete, printable recipe is at the end of this post.
- Preheat the oven to 350℉.
- Line a 9-inch pie plate with the pie crust. Trim and flute the edge.
- In a large bowl, combine the sugar and cocoa. Add the remaining ingredients and stir just until combined. Pour the mixture into the pastry shell.
- Bake for 50 to 55 minutes or until the top is puffed and a knife comes out clean. The pie won’t really appear that it’s set, but it will firm-up upon cooling. Cool for 1 hour on a wire rack. Then chill, covered, for 4 to 24 hours.
Tips and Substitutions:
- Add whipped cream and chocolate shavings on top, for serving.
- Think about changing things up (like making a Lemon Chess Pie instead!)
- This is a great pie to make for Thanksgiving!
What’s the best way to store a chocolate chess pie?
Keep it covered on the counter for up to 3 days, in the fridge for up to 5, or store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. If freezing, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and then slip it into a large, freezer-safe zip baggie.
What I Love About This Recipe:
- It has the perfect texture- like a really gooey brownie!
- It’s a favorite for the chocolate-lovers in my family.
- It’s a good holiday pie!
Favorite Chocolate Pie Recipes:
Chocolate Chess Pie
Ingredients
- 1 pie crust
- 2¼ cups granulated white sugar
- ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350℉.
- Line a 9-inch pie plate with the pie crust. Trim and flute the edge.
- In a large bowl, combine the sugar and cocoa. Add the remaining ingredients and stir just until combined. Pour the mixture into the pastry shell.
- Bake for 50 to 55 minutes or until the top is puffed and a knife comes out clean. The pie won't really appear that it's set, but it will firm-up upon cooling. Cool for 1 hour on a wire rack. Then chill, covered, for 4 to 24 hours.