Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie

 

Why You’ll Love Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie

This pie is a classic for a reason. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

• Rich and Creamy: A smooth, decadent chocolate filling that melts in your mouth.

• Homemade Goodness: Made from scratch with simple, wholesome ingredients.

• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight desserts.

• Crowd-Pleasing: Loved by kids and adults alike, this pie is always a hit.

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How to Make Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie

Follow this step-by-step guide to create a pie that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pie Crust:

• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

• 3-4 tablespoons ice water

For the Chocolate Filling:

• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar

• ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• ¼ cup cornstarch

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 3 cups whole milk

• 4 large egg yolks

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder (for garnish, optional)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Pie Crust:

• In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

• Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together.

• Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

• Roll out the dough on a floured surface and transfer it to a 9-inch pie dish. Trim and crimp the edges, then prick the bottom with a fork. Chill for another 15 minutes.

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and bake for another 10-12 minutes, or until golden. Let cool completely.

2. Make the Chocolate Filling:

• In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.

• Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil. Boil for 1 minute, then remove from heat.

• In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Gradually whisk in about 1 cup of the hot milk mixture to temper the eggs, then pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan.

• Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the filling thickens again (about 2 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract.

• Pour the filling into the cooled pie crust. Cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the filling to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.

3. Make the Whipped Cream Topping:

• In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

• Spread the whipped cream over the chilled pie. Garnish with chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder, if desired.

4. Serve and Enjoy:

• Slice and serve your Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie chilled. Enjoy!

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Tips for the Best Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie

• Use High-Quality Cocoa Powder: For the best flavor, use a high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder.

• Don’t Skip the Tempering: Tempering the eggs ensures a smooth, lump-free filling.

• Make Ahead: The pie can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

• Storage Tips: Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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Serving Suggestions

• With Coffee or Tea: Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful dessert experience.

• Add Fresh Berries: Serve with fresh strawberries or raspberries for a pop of color and flavor.

• Perfect for Holidays: This pie is a stunning addition to any holiday dessert table.

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Conclusion

Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie is a timeless dessert that’s rich, creamy, and utterly irresistible. With its homemade crust, silky chocolate filling, and fluffy whipped cream topping, it’s a treat that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving something sweet, this recipe is easy to make and absolutely delicious. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a slice of pure indulgence!

Imagine one dough that works for pizza, cinnamon rolls, bread, and even dinner rolls!

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s so much to adore about this one-dough wonder. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

1. Versatile : Use it for sweet or savory dishes—pizza, cinnamon rolls, bread, or dinner rolls.
2. Easy to Make : Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for bakers of all levels.
3. Time-Saving : Prepare one batch of dough and use it for multiple meals throughout the week.
4. Customizable : Add herbs, spices, cheese, or sugar to suit your taste.
5. Make-Ahead Friendly : Prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer for later use.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The secret to this magical dough lies in its simple yet adaptable combination of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F/45°C)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (adjust for sweet vs. savory recipes)
• ½ cup unsalted butter (melted, or substitute olive oil for savory options)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon salt

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to whip up this magical dough? Follow these easy steps:

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes, until frothy. This indicates the yeast is active and ready to use.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Add the activated yeast mixture, melted butter (or oil), and eggs. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook on low speed for 5–7 minutes.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

1. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning it once to coat the surface. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
2. Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Customize and Shape

Once the dough has risen, divide it into portions and shape it according to your desired recipe. Below are ideas for transforming the dough into different creations:

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Transformations: What You Can Make

1. Pizza Crust

• Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) .
• Roll out the dough into a circle or rectangle on a floured surface.
• Transfer to a baking sheet or pizza stone, add your favorite toppings, and bake for 12–15 minutes, until golden and bubbly.

2. Cinnamon Rolls

• Roll the dough into a rectangle (about 12x16 inches).
• Spread softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle with a mixture of brown sugar and cinnamon.
• Roll tightly into a log, slice into rolls, and place them in a greased baking pan.
• Let them rise for 30 minutes, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes. Drizzle with cream cheese glaze after baking.

3. Soft Dinner Rolls

• Divide the dough into equal portions (about golf ball-sized).
• Shape into balls and place them in a greased baking pan, leaving space between each roll.
• Let them rise for 30 minutes, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, until golden brown. Brush with melted butter after baking.

4. Loaf of Bread

• Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan.
• Let it rise for 30–45 minutes, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.

Why This Recipe Works So Well

The magic of this dough lies in its adaptability. The combination of yeast, sugar, and butter creates a soft, pliable dough that can be shaped and flavored in countless ways. Whether you’re aiming for something sweet, savory, or neutral, this dough serves as the perfect base for all your culinary creations. Its versatility makes it a staple in any kitchen—a true workhorse recipe.

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Variations to Try

While the classic version is divine, here are some creative ways to switch things up:

1. Herb-Infused Dough : Add dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano for savory bread or dinner rolls.
2. Cheesy Twist : Fold shredded cheese into the dough for cheesy bread or rolls.
3. Sweet Treats : Increase the sugar and add vanilla extract for desserts like sticky buns or sweet bread.
4. Gluten-Free Option : Substitute gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary restrictions.
5. Whole Wheat Version : Replace half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.

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Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Yeast : Check the expiration date on your yeast to ensure it’s still active.
2. Don’t Skip the Rise : Allow the dough to double in size for the best texture and flavor.
3. Save Leftovers : Store baked goods in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
4. Freeze the Dough : Portion the dough into individual balls, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the fridge overnight before using.
5. Experiment with Shapes : Try braiding the dough for bread or twisting it into knots for rolls.

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Serving Suggestions

This One Magical Dough is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of occasions. Here are some ideas to enhance your experience:

• Weeknight Pizza Night : Top with marinara, mozzarella, and your favorite veggies or meats.
• Brunch Favorite : Serve warm cinnamon rolls with coffee or tea for a cozy morning treat.
• Holiday Spread : Include soft dinner rolls or a homemade loaf of bread on your Thanksgiving or Christmas table.
• Potluck Idea : Bring cheesy garlic knots or sweet sticky buns to gatherings—they’re always a hit.
• Meal Prep Hack : Make a batch of dough on the weekend and use it throughout the week for quick meals.

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Final Thoughts

With its endless possibilities, One Magical Dough is a recipe worth keeping in your back pocket. Whether you’re craving pizza, cinnamon rolls, bread, or dinner rolls, this dough delivers big on taste, texture, and convenience.

So, the next time you’re in the mood for something indulgent, comforting, or utterly satisfying, give this dough a try. Trust us—it’s quick, easy, and absolutely divine!

Have you tried this recipe yet? Share your thoughts, tips, and variations in the comments below. Happy baking! 🍕innamon🍞✨