Dark Chocolate Chess Pie (Rich and Fudgy Classic)

Dark Chocolate Chess Pie is the kind of dessert that stops conversations mid-slice. It’s rich and fudgy like a brownie, smooth like custard, and hugged by a flaky, buttery pie crust. One bite and you’ll understand why this Southern classic is still winning hearts with its melt-in-your-mouth magic

Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or just an ordinary weeknight where something extraordinary is needed. And if you’re craving more old-school comfort, try these Mini Apple Pies next for a cozy little throwback

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Chess Pie

Deep dark chocolate flavor that’s not too sweet
Texture is silky, gooey, and just firm enough to slice clean
Takes 15 minutes to prep with basic pantry ingredients
No electric mixer required
It travels and stores beautifully
If you’re on dessert duty, it pairs perfectly with these Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies for a fall dessert tray everyone will love

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Filling

1 ½ cups granulated sugar
3 tablespoons cocoa powder (preferably Dutch process)
½ teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
½ cup evaporated milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
4 oz dark chocolate, melted
1 tablespoon cornmeal (for classic chess pie texture)

For the Crust

1 single pie crust (homemade or store-bought), unbaked
Optional: egg wash for edges

For Serving

Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
Shaved chocolate or cocoa powder dusting
Serve warm with a scoop of ice cream and a slice of Mini Apple Pie for the ultimate cozy dessert plate

Tools You’ll Need

9-inch pie dish
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Saucepan or microwave-safe bowl for melting chocolate
Baking sheet to catch any drips
Foil or pie shield to protect crust edges if needed

How to Make Dark Chocolate Chess Pie

Step 1 – Prepare the crust

Roll out your crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan. Flute or crimp the edges. Place it in the freezer for 10 minutes while you prep the filling

Step 2 – Mix the filling

In a mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, cocoa powder, cornmeal, and salt. Add eggs, evaporated milk, and vanilla, and whisk until smooth. Stir in the melted butter and melted chocolate until glossy and well combined

Step 3 – Bake the pie

Preheat oven to 350°F. Pour the filling into the chilled crust. Bake for 45–50 minutes until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle. Cover crust edges with foil halfway through baking if they brown too quickly

Step 4 – Cool and serve

Let the pie cool completely at room temperature so it sets fully. Chill for firmer slices or serve slightly warm with whipped cream or ice cream. The center will be gooey and rich like a soft truffle

Tips for the Perfect Chess Pie Texture

Use room temperature eggs so they mix evenly
Dutch process cocoa makes the chocolate flavor deeper
Don’t skip the cornmeal—it’s traditional and gives that subtle toothsome bite
If the crust edges brown too fast, use a foil collar
Letting the pie cool completely before slicing gives clean cuts
Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 4 days
Try it with this Brownie Batter Dip for a chocolate-on-chocolate moment

Flavor Variations You Can Try

Add a tablespoon of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate
Stir in a splash of bourbon for a Kentucky twist
Top with sea salt flakes before serving
Swap dark chocolate for semi-sweet if you prefer
Add a thin layer of raspberry jam to the bottom crust before baking
Or drizzle it with caramel and crumble bits from this Caramel Apple Cheesecake Dip for a wild fall mashup

FAQs About Chocolate Chess Pie

What makes it a chess pie

It’s a Southern classic that uses a bit of cornmeal or flour to create a slightly crackly top and custard-like filling

Can I make it ahead of time

Absolutely. Bake it a day in advance and chill overnight. Bring to room temp before serving

Do I need to blind bake the crust

Nope. Because the filling bakes for almost an hour, the crust bakes up perfectly without blind baking

Can I freeze chocolate chess pie

Yes. Wrap cooled slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight

Try These Cozy Desserts Next

Serve this with Mini Apple Pies for a sweet and tart duo
These Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies pair perfectly with chocolate
If you’re in the mood for dipping, try our Brownie Batter Dip for the ultimate no-bake treat

Let us know if you bake this beauty. Snap a pic, tag @ElyRecipes, and follow along on Pinterest for more cozy chocolatey bakes. Or come hang out with us on Facebook where we share weekly fall favorites

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