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Chocolate Chess Pie (Deeply Chocolate, Silky, and Old-School in the Best Way)
Isla Marie

Chocolate Chess Pie

A rich, classic Southern pie with deep chocolate flavor and a smooth, sliceable filling. Made with simple pantry ingredients and baked until just set.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
  • 1½ cups granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ cup unsalted butter melted
  • 3 large eggs
  • ¼ cup whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon cornmeal optional
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • 9-inch pie dish
  • Oven

Method
 

Step 1. Preheat the Oven
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F and place the unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish.
Step 2. Mix Dry Ingredients
  1. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar and cocoa powder until evenly combined.
Step 3. Add Butter and Eggs
  1. Whisk in melted butter until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Step 4. Finish the Filling
  1. Stir in milk, vanilla extract, vinegar, cornmeal if using, and salt until fully combined and smooth.
Step 5. Fill the Crust
  1. Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust and gently tap the dish to release air bubbles.
Step 6. Bake
  1. Bake for 45–50 minutes, until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
Step 7. Cool Completely
  1. Remove from the oven and allow the pie to cool fully at room temperature before slicing.

Video

Notes

  • The center will firm up as the pie cools.
  • Cornmeal adds traditional structure but can be omitted for a smoother texture.
  • Use unsweetened cocoa powder for proper balance.