Classic Chocolate Chess Pie with a Buttery Crust Recipe
Introduction
Classic Chocolate Chess Pie is a rich, fudgy dessert with a smooth, buttery crust. Its simple ingredients come together to create a comforting, chocolatey treat perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients
- 1 unbaked pie crust (9-inch)
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and set aside.
- Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the sugar, cocoa powder, flour, and salt until well combined.
- Step 3: Stir in the melted butter, vanilla extract, and beaten eggs until the mixture is smooth.
- Step 4: Gradually add the whole milk, mixing continuously to create a creamy filling.
- Step 5: Pour the chocolate filling into the prepared pie crust. If desired, sprinkle chopped pecans evenly over the top.
- Step 6: Bake the pie for 40–45 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean.
- Step 7: Allow the pie to cool to room temperature before slicing and serving to ensure the filling sets properly.
Tips & Variations
- For a nuttier texture, toast the pecans before adding them to the pie.
- You can substitute half the whole milk with half-and-half for a richer filling.
- Use a glass or ceramic pie dish to help bake the crust evenly.
- If you prefer a less sweet pie, reduce the sugar slightly by 2 tablespoons.
Storage
Store leftover pie covered loosely with plastic wrap or foil at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to 4 days. Reheat individual slices gently in the microwave for 10–15 seconds if desired.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this pie crust from scratch?
Yes, a homemade buttery pie crust works wonderfully for this recipe if you prefer making your own instead of using a store-bought crust.
Can I freeze Chocolate Chess Pie?
While you can freeze this pie, the texture might change slightly after thawing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
PrintClassic Chocolate Chess Pie with a Buttery Crust Recipe
This classic Chocolate Chess Pie features a rich, fudgy chocolate filling nestled in a buttery, flaky 9-inch pie crust. Easy to prepare and perfect for chocolate lovers, this pie combines simple pantry ingredients with optional pecans for added texture and flavor. Baked to perfection, it’s a delightful dessert for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
Filling
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s at the right temperature for baking the pie evenly.
- Prepare Pie Crust: Place the unbaked 9-inch pie crust into a pie dish and set aside while you prepare the filling.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, and salt. Stir well to distribute all dry ingredients evenly.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in the melted unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and beaten eggs into the dry mixture. Mix until fully incorporated.
- Add Milk: Gradually pour in the whole milk while stirring continuously until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Assemble Pie: Pour the chocolate filling into the prepared pie crust. If desired, sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the top for added crunch and flavor.
- Bake: Place the pie on the middle rack of the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. The pie is done when the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature before serving. This helps the filling to fully set for the best texture.
Notes
- For a nuttier flavor and texture, pecans are optional but highly recommended.
- Ensure the pie filling is fully set before removing from the oven to avoid a runny center.
- Use room temperature eggs and melted butter for smoother mixing.
- Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.
- Store leftover pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Keywords: Chocolate Chess Pie, Classic Chocolate Pie, Easy Chocolate Pie Recipe, Buttery Pie Crust, Chocolate Dessert, Homemade Pie

