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Old-Fashioned, Rich & Gooey Chocolate Chess Pie: The Ultimate Southern Classic

A close-up slice of rich, dark chocolate chess pie with a flaky crust, sitting on a white plate bathed in sunlight.

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You make this rich, gooey chocolate chess pie using simple pantry staples. This Southern classic features a fudgy center and a crisp crust, making it a comforting dessert perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust (buttery crust pie)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup light corn syrup
  • 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional, for extra decadence)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Place your unbaked pie crust on a baking sheet.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the 1 cup sugar, flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
  3. In a separate large bowl, combine the melted butter, 1 cup sugar, corn syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing slowly until the batter is smooth. Do not overmix.
  5. If using, stir in the chocolate chips.
  6. Pour the chocolate filling into the unbaked pie crust.
  7. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes. The center should be mostly set but still slightly soft, similar to a brownie or custard. A toothpick inserted near the edge should come out clean, but the center will remain gooey.
  8. Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack for at least 3 hours before slicing. This allows the gooey center to set properly.
  9. Serve this easy chocolate dessert warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • For a darker, more intense flavor, substitute dark chocolate chips for the semi-sweet ones.
  • Serve this decadent chocolate custard pie warm with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
  • If the crust edges begin to brown too quickly during baking, cover them loosely with aluminum foil strips.

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