The Chocolate Pie That Stole The Show
Decadent Chocolate Chess Pie: A Rich, Southern Dessert Classic
This indulgent chocolate chess pie is the perfect blend of rich cocoa, buttery goodness, and a perfectly crisp crust. A staple in Southern kitchens, this dessert offers a fudgy, custard-like texture that melts in your mouth with every bite. Made with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients like sugar, eggs, butter, and cocoa powder, chocolate chess pie is a timeless treat that’s easy to whip up for holidays, special occasions, or just because. Garnish with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt to elevate this already irresistible dessert.
The Magic of Chocolate Chess Pie: A Guaranteed Crowd-Pleaser in 15 Minutes
Some desserts are so fancy they feel like they’ve got their own publicist. Chocolate chess pie? It’s more like the friend who shows up unannounced but always brings wine—reliable, delightful, and guaranteed to make your day better. This pie doesn’t just disappear; it evaporates. Blink, and all that’s left is an empty pie plate and a lot of happy faces.
I first met this chocolate miracle thanks to my friend Eric McCloud. Eric always shows up with the exact thing you didn’t know you needed. One Sunday, he walked in with a chocolate chess pie, and let me tell you—it was love at first bite. By the end of the evening, the pie was gone, and so was any pretense of self-control. I begged for the recipe.
He casually mentioned that it was from the Angus Barn in North Carolina. I’ve since made it several times, and each time it’s been a lifesaver. Need dessert but only have 20 minutes? Chocolate chess pie. Need to impress guests without breaking a sweat? Chocolate chess pie. Feeling snacky and slightly unhinged on a Tuesday? You guessed it.
Why This Chocolate Chess Pie is Basically Magic
Here’s the deal: this pie works because it’s made from ingredients you have on hand.
Chocolate: Got a random bar from last Christmas or some chocolate chips you forgot about? That will do.
Butter: There’s always a pack of four in the door.
Eggs and Sugar: Non-negotiable kitchen staples, right?
Pie Crust: A frozen pie crust is the unsung hero of this story. If you’ve got a homemade one, great—you’re fancy. If not, no judgment here.
In just 15 minutes, you can throw these ingredients together, toss it in the oven, and pat yourself on the back. The pie practically makes itself. As it bakes, it transforms into a fudgy, custard-like masterpiece with a crackly top that’s just begging to be devoured.
Lime Curd Tart and Fresh Raspberry Topping with Homemade Shortbread Crust
Life is Better with Chocolate Chess Pie
Listen, life is hard. Some days, you’re just trying to survive. And that’s why this pie is my culinary soulmate. It’s easy, it’s fast, and it never lets you down. Plus, it’s versatile—perfect for last-minute guests, potlucks, or eating straight out of the pan while binge-watching your favorite show.
So, the next time you’re in a pinch (or just need an excuse to eat chocolate), remember this North Carolina classic. Chocolate chess pie isn’t just dessert; it’s a lifesaver, a mood-lifter, and proof that the simple things really are the best.
Recipe: Chocolate Chess Pie Inspired by the Angus Barn
This recipe is a tribute to the famous Angus Barn’s chocolate chess pie. It’s simple, foolproof, and utterly delicious. Perfect for any occasion or when you just need a chocolate fix.
Ingredients
1 stick butter
3 oz semi-sweet chocolate
2 eggs
1 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla
1 pinch salt
1 frozen pie crust
Optional toppings: whipped cream, vanilla ice cream
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Melt the butter and chocolate together. Using a double boiler or a medium saucepan, melt the butter and chocolate over medium heat, stirring often.
1 stick butter, 3 oz semi-sweet chocolate
Mix the remaining ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, vanilla, and salt until well combined.
2 eggs, 1 cup sugar, 1 tsp vanilla, 1 pinch salt
Combine chocolate and egg mixtures. Slowly pour the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture, stirring constantly until smooth.
Prepare the pie crust. Press the frozen pie crust into a pie pan, if not pre-formed.
1 frozen pie crust
Fill and bake. Pour the batter into the pie shell and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the pie is set. The top should have a crackly crust and only jiggle slightly when done.
Cool completely before serving. For easier slicing, refrigerate the pie to speed up the cooling process.
Serve and enjoy! Even better with fresh whipped cream.
