Old Fashioned Chocolate Pudding Pie

Sometimes, the classics are all we really need—and this Old Fashioned Chocolate Pudding Pie is proof. With its silky smooth chocolate pudding nestled in a flaky pie crust and topped with whipped cream, it’s a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It takes you right back to those cozy, nostalgic days when you could count on a dessert like this to make everything feel just a little bit sweeter. Trust me, once you make this, you’ll understand why it’s a timeless favorite.

Why You’ll Love Old Fashioned Chocolate Pudding Pie

There’s something so comforting about a chocolate pudding pie that makes it a go-to for any occasion. Here’s why you’re going to love it:

• Decadently Creamy: The chocolate pudding filling is smooth, rich, and perfectly set, making every bite feel like a luxurious treat.
• Classic Flavor: This dessert has the classic chocolatey goodness you crave, but it’s elevated with a light, buttery pie crust.
• Easy to Make: Don’t let the fancy appearance fool you—this pie is surprisingly simple to prepare, with easy-to-follow steps.
• Crowd-Pleaser: From family dinners to casual gatherings, this pie is guaranteed to make everyone at the table smile.

Ingredients

Ready to dive into the magic of chocolate pudding pie? Here’s everything you’ll need:

Pie Crust:

The base of our pie, flaky and buttery, holding the smooth pudding filling like a cozy nest.

Granulated Sugar:

Sweetens the chocolate pudding to just the right level of sweetness.

Cocoa Powder:

Gives the pudding that deep, rich chocolate flavor we all crave.

Cornstarch:

Helps to thicken the pudding and give it that perfectly smooth texture.

Salt:

A pinch of salt enhances the sweetness and deepens the flavor of the chocolate.

Whole Milk:

Adds creaminess to the pudding and makes it rich and velvety.

Egg Yolks:

Help thicken the pudding filling and add that custard-like consistency.

Butter:

Makes the pudding even more decadent, adding a rich flavor.

Vanilla Extract:

Adds a warm, comforting note that elevates the chocolate flavor.

Whipped Cream:

The perfect topping to bring everything together with a light, fluffy finish.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Here’s how to put this beauty together:

Prebake the Crust:

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the pie dough and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan. Use a fork to prick the bottom a few times to prevent bubbling, then bake the crust for 10-12 minutes, or until golden. Let it cool completely while you make the pudding filling.

Make the Chocolate Pudding:

In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. Slowly whisk in the whole milk, making sure there are no lumps. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and starts to boil.

Temper the Eggs:

In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly pour a bit of the hot chocolate mixture into the egg yolks to temper them. Once warmed, pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until thickened.

Finish the Pudding:

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until the butter melts and the pudding is smooth and glossy.

Assemble the Pie:

Pour the chocolate pudding into the cooled pie crust and smooth it into an even layer. Let the pie cool at room temperature for a bit, then transfer it to the fridge to chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you have time.

Top with Whipped Cream:

Before serving, top the pie with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream. You can also sprinkle a little extra cocoa powder or chocolate shavings on top for a bit of flair.

Serve and Enjoy:

Cut into slices and serve chilled for a rich, comforting dessert everyone will love!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 350

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes (including chilling time)

How to Serve Old Fashioned Chocolate Pudding Pie

This pie is fantastic on its own, but here are a few fun ways to serve it:

• With a Scoop of Ice Cream: Vanilla or coffee ice cream makes a perfect pairing, adding a creamy contrast to the rich chocolate.
• Fresh Berries: A handful of fresh raspberries or strawberries on the side adds a burst of freshness that balances the richness of the pudding.
• Chocolate Shavings: Top the pie with some grated chocolate or mini chocolate chips for an extra layer of chocolate goodness.
• Pair with Coffee: This pie pairs wonderfully with a strong cup of coffee or espresso—perfect for an after-dinner treat.

Additional Tips

• Chill the Pie Properly: Make sure to let the pie cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating. Chilling it for a few hours allows the pudding to set and become perfectly creamy.
• Homemade Whipped Cream: While store-bought whipped cream works, nothing beats homemade! Whip up some heavy cream with a little powdered sugar and vanilla for the best topping.
• Pie Crust: If you’re short on time, you can use a store-bought pie crust, but a homemade crust takes this pie to the next level.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this pie ahead of time?
A1: Yes! In fact, this pie benefits from being made ahead. Make it the night before and let it chill in the fridge overnight for the best results.

Q2: Can I use almond milk or another dairy-free milk?
A2: You can! Just be aware that the texture and flavor might be slightly different. Use a full-fat dairy-free milk for the best creamy consistency.

Q3: Can I make this pie without eggs?
A3: Yes, you can substitute the eggs with a cornstarch mixture to thicken the pudding. You can also find egg replacers that work well in custard-like pies.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to top with whipped cream just before serving.

Q5: Can I freeze this pie?
A5: While it’s best served fresh, you can freeze the pie (without whipped cream) for up to 1 month. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Q6: Can I use a different crust?
A6: Absolutely! A graham cracker crust or chocolate cookie crust would be delicious alternatives if you’re craving something different.

Q7: How do I make the pudding even creamier?
A7: For an extra-creamy pudding, use half-and-half or heavy cream instead of milk. This will give the pudding an even richer texture.

Q8: How do I prevent the pie from becoming too runny?
A8: Make sure to cook the pudding mixture until it’s thickened enough before pouring it into the crust. Don’t skip the chilling step, as this helps set the pudding perfectly.

Q9: Can I add a layer of caramel or other toppings?
A9: Definitely! A drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of chopped nuts would be a great addition to the top of this pie for extra flavor and texture.

Q10: Can I use a pre-made filling instead of making my own?
A10: You can! There are premade chocolate pudding mixes that you can use if you’re short on time, though making your own pudding gives it that special homemade touch.

Conclusion

This Old Fashioned Chocolate Pudding Pie is the kind of dessert that never goes out of style. It’s rich, creamy, and comforting, with that perfect balance of chocolate and a buttery crust. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want to indulge in a little homemade sweetness, this pie is sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation. Go ahead—treat yourself to this nostalgic, decadent pie and share it with those you love!

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