Description
A classic Southern dessert with rich, silky chocolate filling and a fluffy golden meringue topping. Perfect for holidays or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 cups whole milk
- 3 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large egg whites
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (for meringue)
Instructions
- Pre-bake your pie crust until golden and let it cool.
- In a saucepan, whisk together sugar and cocoa powder, then slowly add milk and egg yolks.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened like pudding.
- Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla until smooth.
- Pour hot filling into the crust and spread evenly.
- In a clean bowl, beat egg whites until frothy, then gradually add sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Spread meringue over the filling, sealing edges to the crust, and create swirls on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes until the meringue is golden brown.
- Cool for at least 2 hours before slicing to allow the filling to set.
Notes
Best enjoyed the day it’s made. Store loosely covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing, as meringue does not thaw well.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American