If you’re dreaming about a glossy, crackle-topped treat that’s rich, deeply chocolatey, and unmistakably Southern, let me introduce you to Dark Chocolate Chess Pie. This pie is everything we love about classic chess pie, elevated with the robust depth of real dark chocolate—a lush, almost truffle-like filling meets the gentle crunch of a buttery crust. Whether you’re sharing it with friends at a cozy gathering or sneaking a midnight slice straight from the fridge, it’s the kind of indulgence that stirs up smiles and second helpings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Dark Chocolate Chess Pie celebrates simple ingredients that, when brought together, create pure magic. Each element serves a purpose, building the fudgy center, silky texture, or snap of the crust—don’t skip or substitute lightly!
- Pie crust: This forms the base; use a store-bought crust for convenience or homemade for extra love and flakiness.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the pie and helps create its signature crinkly top.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Deepens the chocolate flavor and enriches the color of the filling.
- Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate notes.
- Dark chocolate (at least 60% cacao): The star ingredient—choose a bold, bittersweet bar for the richest flavor.
- Unsalted butter: Adds creaminess and gloss, making the filling extra decadent.
- Large eggs: These bind everything together, giving the pie just the right set.
- Evaporated milk: This brings creaminess while keeping the filling delightfully silky.
- Cornmeal: A tiny but crucial addition—gives classic chess pie its subtle texture and prevents a soggy bottom.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the chocolate with warmth and aromatic sweetness.
How to Make Dark Chocolate Chess Pie
Step 1: Prep the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Roll out your 9-inch pie crust and gently fit it into your pie pan, letting the dough ease into the corners. Crimp the edges however your heart desires—rustic or fancy, this is your signature! Place the crust in the refrigerator as you prepare your luscious chocolate filling. Chilling the crust helps it hold its shape during baking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, cocoa powder, salt, and cornmeal. Whisk them together until everything looks perfectly blended. This not only ensures even sweetness but sets up the base for that delightfully thick, almost brownie-like filling Dark Chocolate Chess Pie is known for.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate and Butter
Pop the chopped dark chocolate and unsalted butter into a small saucepan. Melt slowly over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth, shiny, and utterly irresistible. Take it off the heat and let this mixture cool for a few minutes—you don’t want it too hot or it’ll scramble your eggs later on.
Step 4: Combine Eggs, Milk, and Vanilla
In a separate bowl, lightly beat the eggs. Whisk in the evaporated milk and vanilla extract until well combined. This trio keeps the filling rich and creamy, with a dreamily smooth bite that plays beautifully off the dense chocolate.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Pour the cooled chocolate-butter mixture into the egg-milk-vanilla blend, whisking gently. Then tip all of your wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients, stirring until you have a velvety, pourable batter. You’re almost there—all the smells, all the anticipation!
Step 6: Fill and Bake
Gently pour the sumptuous chocolate filling into your chilled pie crust, spreading it to fill every nook. Slide the pan onto the center rack of your preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. The pie should be puffed, with the faintest wiggle in the center—it will set up fully as it cools, so don’t be tempted to overbake. The aroma filling your kitchen will be irresistible!
Step 7: Cool Completely
Place the baked pie on a wire rack and allow it to cool completely before slicing. This cooling time is crucial in letting that signature chess pie texture develop—fudgy yet sliceable, with the most satisfying crackle on top. Serve your Dark Chocolate Chess Pie either at room temperature or chilled, depending on your mood.
How to Serve Dark Chocolate Chess Pie
Garnishes
A dollop of softly whipped cream, a gentle dusting of cocoa powder, or even a scattering of chocolate shavings are all perfect ways to dress up Dark Chocolate Chess Pie. If you love a bit of contrast, try a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or fresh raspberries for a pop of color and tang.
Side Dishes
Pairing your pie with sides is all about balance. Fresh berries, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a little pour of cold milk nicely complement the pie’s richness. For a truly Southern touch, serve it with hot coffee or even a spoonful of bourbon-laced caramel sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, cut the pie into petite squares or wedges, then set them up on a vintage cake stand or individual dessert plates. You could also layer thin slices in parfait glasses with whipped cream and berries for an elegant trifle-style presentation—the possibilities for showing off your Dark Chocolate Chess Pie are endless!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover Dark Chocolate Chess Pie tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors deepen beautifully overnight, making sneaky second slices even more rewarding the next day.
Freezing
Dark Chocolate Chess Pie freezes well—just cool it completely, wrap it tightly in plastic and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw the pie overnight in the fridge before serving for best results.
Reheating
If you prefer your slice warm, just pop it in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds, or in a low oven for 10 minutes. This brings back some fudgy, just-baked magic without sacrificing that signature texture.
FAQs
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
You can, but the pie will be sweeter and less intense—using dark chocolate is what gives Dark Chocolate Chess Pie its distinctive, luxurious flavor. If you love a milder bite, go for milk chocolate, but you might want to dial back the sugar a touch.
Why is there cornmeal in the recipe?
Cornmeal is classic in chess pies—it gently thickens the filling, creating a uniquely tender texture and ensuring the pie slices cleanly. It won’t make the pie gritty; instead, it adds that subtle signature bite.
How do I know when the pie is set?
Look for a slightly puffed top and just a gentle jiggle in the center—it should not be liquid, but you also don’t want it completely firm in the oven. The pie continues to set as it cools, delivering that ideal chocolaty custard texture.
Can I make this ahead for a party?
Absolutely! Dark Chocolate Chess Pie is a dream make-ahead dessert. Bake it the day before, let it cool completely, then refrigerate. Bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor and texture.
What’s the best way to cut clean slices?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water, wiping between slices for the smoothest cuts. Letting the pie cool completely (or even chilling slightly) helps the filling hold shape so each slice comes out picture-perfect.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a lifelong lover of Southern sweets or a first-time explorer, this Dark Chocolate Chess Pie is sheer chocolate bliss in every bite. Gather your favorite people—or just a fork and your coziest blanket—and treat yourself to a true slice of comfort. Go ahead, bake one soon… happiness is just a pie away!
Print
Dark Chocolate Chess Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of this Dark Chocolate Chess Pie. A classic Southern dessert featuring a velvety chocolate filling in a flaky crust, this pie is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Pie Crust:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4 ounces dark chocolate, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3 large eggs
- 1/3 cup evaporated milk
- 1 tablespoon cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Roll out the pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan; crimp the edges and refrigerate while preparing the filling.
- Prepare the filling: Whisk together sugar, cocoa powder, salt, and cornmeal. Melt butter and chocolate, then cool. Beat eggs, add milk and vanilla. Combine wet and dry ingredients.
- Bake the pie: Pour filling into crust. Bake for 45-50 minutes until set. Cool before serving.
Notes
- Use dark chocolate with at least 60% cacao for best flavor.
- Avoid overbaking to prevent the pie from becoming too firm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 170mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
