Grandma’s Chocolate Pie

Ingredients:

For the Pie Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
• 4-6 tablespoons ice water

For the Chocolate Filling:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 cups whole milk
• 4 large egg yolks, beaten
• 6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Whipped Cream Topping:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

Pie Crust:

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt for the crust.
2. Add the chilled butter pieces and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together.
4. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
5. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish.
7. Press the dough into the pie dish, trim the edges, and crimp as desired.
8. Use a fork to prick the bottom of the crust, then bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow to cool.

Chocolate Filling:

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
3. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly.
4. In a separate bowl, temper the beaten egg yolks by slowly adding a ladle of the hot milk mixture while whisking constantly.
5. Pour the tempered egg yolks back into the saucepan and continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
6. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the chopped chocolate, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
7. Pour the chocolate filling into the baked pie crust and smooth the top.
8. Allow the pie to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.

Whipped Cream Topping:

1. In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
2. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
3. Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled chocolate pie.

Serve:

1. Slice and serve Grandma’s Chocolate Pie chilled.
2. Optional: Garnish with chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder for an extra touch of decadence.

Enjoy this timeless family favorite that captures the rich, comforting flavors of Grandma’s chocolate pie!