If using a store-bought crust, follow the package instructions for pre-baking (often called “blind-baking”). If you’re using a homemade pie crust, roll it out, place it in your pie dish, and prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling.
Bake the crust for about 10-12 minutes until lightly golden. If it begins to puff up during baking, gently press it down with a spoon.
Let the crust cool completely before adding the chocolate filling.
2. Make the chocolate filling:
In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Stir the dry ingredients together to remove any lumps.
Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring until smooth.
Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until it begins to thicken and comes to a gentle simmer (about 5-7 minutes). Be sure to stir frequently to prevent the filling from burning.
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks lightly. Once the milk mixture is hot but not boiling, slowly add a small amount of the hot milk mixture to the egg yolks (about ½ cup) to temper them, whisking constantly.
Slowly pour the tempered egg yolks back into the saucepan while stirring continuously. Cook the mixture for another 2-3 minutes, or until it thickens to a pudding-like consistency.
Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until smooth and fully incorporated.
3. Fill the pie crust:
Pour the hot chocolate filling into the cooled pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Allow the pie to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. After that, refrigerate the pie for at least 3 hours or until it’s fully chilled and set.
4. Make the whipped topping:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together using an electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
If you prefer, you can also top the pie with store-bought whipped topping.
5. Serve the pie:
Once the pie is fully chilled and the filling has set, spread the freshly whipped cream over the top of the pie, or serve it on the side.
Optionally, sprinkle some chocolate shavings, cocoa powder, or mini chocolate chips over the whipped topping for an extra touch of chocolate goodness.
