Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I sifted through rich cocoa powder and melted dark chocolate, an unexpected aroma filled my kitchen—an irresistible invitation to create something truly special: Dark Chocolate Chess Pie. This delightful Southern classic combines a delicate flaky crust with a fudgy custard filling that’s invitingly rich and smooth. Made from scratch with simple ingredients, this pie isn’t just another dessert; it’s a comforting reminder of home and family gatherings. One of my favorite perks? It’s perfect for surprising guests or indulging solo, and the best part—no refrigeration required, making it a great treat for any occasion. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on this chocolatey dream; what toppings will you choose to elevate your slice? Why Is Dark Chocolate Chess Pie Irresistible? Decadent flavor shines through in every bite of this rich chocolate pie, reminiscent of your favorite brownie! Effortless to prepare, this scratch-made dessert is excellent for both experienced chefs and kitchen newcomers alike. Versatile by nature, it pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, elevating your experience even further. Don’t forget, it can be enjoyed without refrigeration, making it a fabulous option for gatherings or last-minute indulgences. If you’re craving something truly comforting, consider pairing it with a slice of our Cream Cheese Pie for a delightful dessert table! Dark Chocolate Chess Pie Ingredients Dive into the deliciousness of a scratch-made Dark Chocolate Chess Pie with these essential ingredients! For the Crust All-Purpose Flour – Forms the pie crust structure; opt for unbleached for richer flavor. Sea Salt – Enhances overall flavor; use fine salt for even distribution. Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flakiness; ensure it’s cold and cubed for best results. Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the crust; adjust to match your sweetness preference. Ice Cold Water – Binds the dough without warming the butter; add just as needed. For the Filling Unsalted Butter – Contributes to a rich, creamy filling; cube it for even melting. Dark Chocolate (70% Cacao) – The star ingredient offering intense chocolate flavor; avoid chocolate chips for best results. Dark Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and depth; it will make the filling decadently rich. Granulated Sugar (Filling) – Balances flavors; feel free to adjust to your taste. Dutch-Process Cocoa Powder – Intensifies chocolate flavor; always a good addition! Cornstarch – Stabilizes the filling; crucial for helping it set properly. Sea Salt (Filling) – Enhances sweetness and depth of flavor; a tiny pinch goes a long way. Heavy Cream – Adds richness and smoothness; there’s simply no substitute for that silky texture. Vanilla Extract – Elevates the chocolate flavor; always choose pure extract for the best results. Large Eggs – Key to binding and structure in the filling; ensure they’re at room temperature for optimal incorporation. Now that you have your ingredients ready, you’re just a few steps away from whipping up this delightful pie! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Dark Chocolate Chess Pie Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust Start by greasing a 9-inch pie plate. In a food processor, pulse together all-purpose flour, sea salt, and granulated sugar until combined. Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter, and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice-cold water until the dough just starts to clump together. Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill for 1 hour. Step 2: Roll Out and Blind Bake After chilling, roll the dough on a lightly floured surface into an 11-inch circle with a rolling pin. Carefully transfer it to the greased pie plate, trimming excess dough and crimping the edges for a decorative touch. Chill the crust again for about 20 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F, then line the crust with parchment paper, fill with pie weights, and blind bake for 15 minutes. Remove the weights and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until it turns lightly golden. Step 3: Make the Filling While the crust bakes, prepare the filling for your Dark Chocolate Chess Pie. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the cubed unsalted butter and dark chocolate (70% cacao), microwaving in 30-second intervals until smooth. In a separate bowl, whisk together dark brown sugar, granulated sugar, Dutch-process cocoa powder, cornstarch, and sea salt. Incorporate heavy cream, pure vanilla extract, and room temperature eggs into this mixture, then stir in the melted chocolate until fully combined. Step 4: Bake the Pie Once the filling is ready, lower your oven temperature to 325°F and pour the chocolate mixture into the pre-baked pie crust. Bake the pie for 50-55 minutes, until the edges are set but the center remains slightly wobbly—this gives it that fudgy texture. Keep an eye on the crust, covering the edges with foil if they brown too quickly. Step 5: Cool After baking, remove the Dark Chocolate Chess Pie from the oven and let it cool to room temperature on a wire rack, about 2 hours. This cooling period allows the filling to set perfectly. Once cool, the pie can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, ensuring it remains a delightful treat for all your gatherings. What to Serve with Dark Chocolate Chess Pie Indulging in a slice of this rich pie is just the beginning; imagine the delightful combinations that can elevate your dessert experience. Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the fudgy filling, enhancing each bite perfectly. Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic pairing creates a luscious temperature contrast, as the warm pie melts the creamy coldness in your mouth. Fresh Berries: Raspberries or strawberries introduce a refreshing tartness that beautifully cuts through the richness of the chocolate. Coffee: A robust cup of coffee complements the pie’s deep chocolate flavor, turning dessert into a comforting ritual. Mint Leaves: A sprig of fresh mint adds a bright, refreshing aroma, making each bite feel like a special occasion. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling more chocolate sauce over the pie deepens the flavor, perfect for chocolate lovers ready to elevate their indulgence. Coconut Whipped Cream: This dairy-free alternative offers a tropical twist that pairs stunningly with the decadence of the pie. Port Wine: A glass of this sweet dessert wine heightens the experience, the rich flavors of port echoing the pie’s chocolatey notes. Toasted Nuts: Chopped and sprinkled on top, they introduce a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that perfectly complements the creamy filling. Expert Tips for Dark Chocolate Chess Pie • Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better emulsification, making your filling smoother and creamier. • Watch the Crust: Keep an eye on your pie during the last 10 minutes of baking; cover the edges with foil if they start to darken too much. • Cooling Time: Allow your Dark Chocolate Chess Pie to cool completely to prevent cracks from forming on the surface. Patience is key to that silky finish! • Proper Measurement: Measure your ingredients accurately, especially the dark chocolate and butter for the filling; this guarantees that rich, fudgy flavor. • Store Wisely: If storing, keep the pie at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days; it maintains its deliciousness beautifully without compromising taste. Make Ahead Options These Dark Chocolate Chess Pie are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the pie crust up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial steps, wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap after chilling. Likewise, the filling can be made ahead—just mix the ingredients and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the chilled filling into the prepped crust and proceed with the baking instructions. This allows you to enjoy a freshly baked pie with minimal effort on the day you want to serve it. Trust me, your rich and fudgy Dark Chocolate Chess Pie will be just as delicious, making it a delightful treat for any occasion! How to Store and Freeze Dark Chocolate Chess Pie Room Temperature: Keep the Dark Chocolate Chess Pie at room temperature for up to 2 days for optimal taste and texture. Cover it loosely with foil to prevent drying. Refrigerator: For longer freshness, store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Place it in an airtight container or cover tightly with plastic wrap to keep it from absorbing odors. Freezer: If you want to freeze it, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. The pie can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying. Reheating: Serve the pie cold or let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before slicing. Avoid reheating as this may affect the fudgy texture! Dark Chocolate Chess Pie Variations Feel free to get creative with your Dark Chocolate Chess Pie to suit your taste and dietary needs. Semi-Sweet Swap: Use semi-sweet chocolate for a softer flavor without losing richness; it’s a popular choice for those wanting a less intense chocolate experience. Nutty Twist: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch; the nutty flavor complements the chocolate beautifully, enhancing each delicious bite. Espresso Boost: Sprinkle in a teaspoon of espresso powder for a rich flavor enhancement; this addition elevates the chocolate to divine levels, making your pie a true standout. Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil and heavy cream with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version; you’ll still achieve that luscious texture and flavor. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a surprising heat; it adds a fun twist and complements the sweetness of the chocolate. Flavored Custard: Infuse the filling with orange zest or mint extract to create a bright, refreshing flavor; these hints will make your pie memorable in the best way. Gluten-Free Option: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in your crust; you can still enjoy that lovely flakiness while accommodating gluten sensitivities. Chocolate Showstopper: Top the pie with chocolate ganache or shavings for an elegant finish; serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly decadent dessert. Feeling inspired? This pie pairs beautifully with a slice of our Keto Chocolate Chip or the decadent Hazelnut Chocolate Pancake for a complete chocolate lover’s feast! Dark Chocolate Chess Pie Recipe FAQs How do I select the best dark chocolate for the filling? Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose a high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cacao. This will provide an intense chocolate taste that makes your chess pie irresistibly rich. Avoid using chocolate chips; they don’t melt as smoothly as couverture chocolate and can impact the filling’s texture. What’s the best way to store Dark Chocolate Chess Pie? Very good question! You can keep your Dark Chocolate Chess Pie at room temperature for up to 2 days, but be sure to cover it lightly with foil to prevent it from drying out. For more extended storage, move it to the refrigerator where it can last up to 4 days; just wrap it well in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to maintain its deliciousness. Can I freeze Dark Chocolate Chess Pie? Definitely! To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them into a freezer-safe container or wrap them in aluminum foil. Your pie can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the slices in the refrigerator overnight for the best results. What if the pie edges are browning too quickly while baking? Great catch! If you notice the crust edges starting to darken before the pie is baked through, cover them gently with strips of aluminum foil. This prevents over-browning while allowing the pie to finish cooking to perfection. Is Dark Chocolate Chess Pie safe for people with egg allergies? Noted! Unfortunately, traditional Dark Chocolate Chess Pie contains eggs, which are essential for binding the filling. If you’re looking for an alternative, consider searching for egg substitute recipes or vegan chocolate pie recipes that can bring that fudgy goodness without eggs. Always consult allergy guidelines for specific individuals. How do I know when my pie is done baking? Great question! The edges of your Dark Chocolate Chess Pie should be set while the center remains a bit wobbly, about 50-55 minutes at 325°F. This slight jiggle is critical for that fudgy texture. If it looks too soft, give it a few more minutes, but use the color of the crust as a guide; if it’s getting too brown, cover it lightly with foil. Decadent Dark Chocolate Chess Pie for Ultimate Satisfaction Experience the ultimate satisfaction with this rich and fudgy Dark Chocolate Chess Pie, combining a flaky crust and indulgent filling. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 1 hour hrCook Time 55 minutes minsCooling Time 2 hours hrsTotal Time 3 hours hrs 55 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: SouthernCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Crust1 cup All-Purpose Flour Opt for unbleached for richer flavor.1/2 tsp Sea Salt Use fine salt for even distribution.1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Ensure it’s cold and cubed.1 tbsp Granulated Sugar Adjust to match your sweetness preference.2-4 tbsp Ice Cold Water Add just as needed to bind the dough.For the Filling1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Cube it for even melting.8 oz Dark Chocolate (70% Cacao) Avoid chocolate chips for best results.1 cup Dark Brown Sugar Adds moisture and richness.1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (Filling) Feel free to adjust to your taste.1/2 cup Dutch-Process Cocoa Powder Intensifies chocolate flavor.2 tbsp Cornstarch Crucial for helping it set properly.1/4 tsp Sea Salt (Filling) A tiny pinch enhances overall flavor.1/2 cup Heavy Cream Adds richness and smoothness.1 tsp Vanilla Extract Choose pure extract for the best results.3 Large Eggs Ensure they’re at room temperature. Equipment food processormicrowave-safe bowl9-inch pie plateRolling PinWire Rack Method Prepare the Pie CrustGrease a 9-inch pie plate. In a food processor, pulse together all-purpose flour, sea salt, and granulated sugar until combined. Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice-cold water until the dough just starts to clump together. Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill for 1 hour.Roll Out and Blind BakeRoll the dough on a lightly floured surface into an 11-inch circle. Transfer it to the greased pie plate, trimming excess dough and crimping the edges. Chill the crust again for about 20 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F, line the crust with parchment paper, fill with pie weights, and blind bake for 15 minutes. Remove the weights and bake for an additional 5 minutes.Make the FillingIn a microwave-safe bowl, microwave the cubed unsalted butter and dark chocolate until smooth. In a separate bowl, whisk together dark brown sugar, granulated sugar, Dutch-process cocoa powder, cornstarch, and sea salt. Incorporate heavy cream, pure vanilla extract, and room temperature eggs, then stir in the melted chocolate.Bake the PieLower oven temperature to 325°F and pour the filling into the pre-baked crust. Bake for 50-55 minutes until edges are set but the center remains slightly wobbly. Cover the edges with foil if they brown too quickly.CoolRemove the pie from the oven and let it cool to room temperature on a wire rack for about 2 hours. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 5gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 3gSugar: 30gVitamin A: 8IUCalcium: 4mgIron: 10mg NotesFor best results, ensure your eggs are at room temperature and watch the crust closely during the last minutes of baking to prevent over-browning. 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