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Dark Chocolate Chess Pie

Dark Chocolate Chess Pie

This Dark Chocolate Chess Pie is a rich, custardy dessert with a flaky buttery crust and an intense chocolate filling. A modern twist on a Southern classic, it's simple to make and perfect for make-ahead holiday treats.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Chilling Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 3 hours
Course Dessert
Cuisine Southern
Servings 8 slices
Calories 520 kcal

Equipment

  • Pie Pan
  • Rolling Pin
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Whisk
  • Saucepan
  • Parchment Paper
  • Pie Weights
  • Oven

Ingredients
  

Pie Crust

  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter cold, cut into cubes
  • 1 tbsp vodka optional
  • 2–4 tbsp ice water

Dark Chocolate Chess Filling

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 4 oz bittersweet chocolate chopped
  • 1/4 cup Dutch-process cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp espresso powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup dark brown sugar packed
  • 1 tbsp cornmeal
  • 3 eggs room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions
 

  • Combine flour and salt, cut in cold butter until pea-sized bits form. Add vodka and ice water until dough holds. Wrap and chill for at least 1 hour. Rest overnight.
  • Roll out dough, fit into pie pan, trim and crimp edges. Dock with fork and chill again.
  • Blind bake crust with parchment and pie weights at 375°F (190°C) until lightly golden. Remove weights, brush with egg wash, bake until crisp. Let cool.
  • Melt butter, chocolate, cocoa, espresso powder, salt, and milk in a saucepan. Stir until smooth. Cool slightly.
  • Beat sugars, cornmeal, eggs, and vanilla in a bowl until lighter in color and slightly thickened.
  • Slowly whisk in the cooled chocolate mixture. Pour filling into cooled crust and smooth top.
  • Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 50–60 minutes until center is just set but slightly wobbly. Cool at least 2 hours before slicing.

Notes

Let the pie rest overnight for best texture and flavor. Serve with whipped cream, ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel. Don’t skip the blind bake!

Nutrition

Calories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 6gFat: 32gSaturated Fat: 18gCholesterol: 125mgSodium: 220mgPotassium: 180mgFiber: 3gSugar: 30gVitamin A: 600IUCalcium: 50mgIron: 4.5mg
Keyword Chess Pie, Chocolate, Pie
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