Name: Easy No Bake Old Fashioned Chocolate Pie
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 4 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 prepared graham cracker or Oreo pie crust; 1 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips; 3/4 cup sugar; 1/4 cup cornstarch; 3 cups whole milk; 4 egg yolks; 2 tbsp butter; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Whipped cream, for topping

Easy No Bake Old Fashioned Chocolate Pie

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pie is as simple as it is delicious. The no bake method makes it stress-free, while the classic chocolate flavor makes it universally loved. It’s a perfect dessert for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight indulgence. Plus, it requires only a few ingredients and minimal effort, yet tastes like a homemade classic.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Prepared graham cracker or Oreo pie crust
Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
Sugar
Cornstarch
Whole milk
Egg yolks
Butter
Vanilla extract
Whipped cream for topping

Directions

In a saucepan, whisk together sugar and cornstarch.
Slowly add milk while whisking until smooth.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
Temper the egg yolks by adding a little of the hot mixture to them, then return the yolks to the saucepan.
Continue cooking until the mixture is thick and glossy.
Remove from heat and stir in chocolate chips, butter, and vanilla until smooth.
Pour the chocolate filling into the prepared crust and spread evenly.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
Top with whipped cream before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 8 slices.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Chilling time: 4 hours
Total time: 4 hours 20 minutes

Variations

Use a homemade pie crust instead of store-bought for a classic touch.
Swap semi-sweet chocolate for milk chocolate or dark chocolate, depending on preference.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.
Top with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or crushed Oreos for extra flair.
Make it dairy-free by using almond or oat milk and dairy-free chocolate chips.

Storage/Reheating

Store chocolate pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze slices individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Since this is a chilled dessert, reheating is not necessary.

FAQs

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes, it’s actually better when made a day in advance since it needs time to chill and set.

Do I need to bake the pie crust?

If using a store-bought graham cracker or Oreo crust, baking is not necessary. For a homemade crust, you can bake or chill it depending on the recipe.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Yes, though it will make the filling sweeter and less rich.

How long does the pie need to chill?

At least 4 hours is recommended, but overnight is even better.

Can I make this pie without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute egg yolks with cornstarch for thickening, though the texture will be slightly different.

What toppings go well with this pie?

Whipped cream, chocolate curls, caramel drizzle, or even crushed nuts are all great options.

Can I freeze this pie?

Yes, wrap slices well and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Is this pie gluten-free?

Yes, if you use a gluten-free crust and ensure your cornstarch and chocolate are certified gluten-free.

Can I use plant-based milk?

Yes, almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk can be used, though the filling may be slightly less thick.

Can kids help make this recipe?

Definitely—they can help stir, pour the filling into the crust, and decorate with toppings once it’s chilled.

Conclusion

Easy no bake old fashioned chocolate pie is a timeless dessert that’s both simple and indulgent. With its creamy chocolate filling and light, fluffy topping, it delivers all the nostalgic flavors of a homemade pie with minimal effort. Whether served at a holiday table or as a weeknight treat, this pie is sure to become a go-to favorite.