Chocolate Chess Pie

Chocolate chess pie is a rich and decadent dessert that is popular in the southern United States. It is a type of custard pie that is made with a filling of sugar, eggs, butter, and chocolate, and is typically baked in a flaky pie crust.

To make chocolate chess pie, the pie crust is first prepared by combining flour, butter, and water to form a dough that is then rolled out and fitted into a pie dish. The filling is made by whisking together sugar, cocoa powder, eggs, milk, and butter until smooth. The mixture is then poured into the prepared pie crust and baked in the oven until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.

The origin of the name “chess pie” is uncertain, but some believe it comes from the old English word “cheese”, which meant curds or custard, as the pie filling has a custard-like consistency. Chocolate chess pie is a variation of the classic chess pie that adds chocolate to the custard filling.

Chocolate chess pie can be served warm or at room temperature and is often topped with whipped cream or a dusting of cocoa powder. It is a beloved dessert in the southern United States and is enjoyed throughout the year, but is particularly popular during the holiday season.

SERVINGS: 4

PREPARATION TIME: 45 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

For the crust:

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
• 2 tablespoons shortening
• 3-4 tablespoons ice water

For the filling:

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, melted and cooled

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

1. To make the crust, combine the flour and salt in a medium bowl. Cut in the butter and shortening with a pastry cutter or two knives until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the mixture forms a ball. Flatten the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch (23 cm) pie dish. Transfer to the pie dish, trim the edges, and crimp as desired.
4. To make the filling, whisk together the sugar, flour, cocoa powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Whisk in the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and melted chocolate until well combined.
5. Pour the filling into the prepared crust and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
6. Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack. Serve at room temperature or chilled.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS OR ADDITIONAL TIPS:

• Serve the chocolate chess pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• For a more intense chocolate flavor, use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.