Name: Dark Chocolate Chess Pie
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: PT-487983H55M20S
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought); 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 4 oz dark chocolate, chopped; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 3 large eggs; 2/3 cup evaporated milk (or heavy cream); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pie combines the nostalgic sweetness of traditional chess pie with the sophistication of dark chocolate. It’s easy to prepare with simple ingredients, yet the end result tastes like something from a bakery. The fudgy texture pairs beautifully with whipped cream or ice cream, and the pie slices neatly, making it ideal for sharing at family gatherings, potlucks, or holidays.

Ingredients

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

Unbaked pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Unsalted butter
Dark chocolate, chopped
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Eggs
Evaporated milk (or heavy cream)
Vanilla extract
Salt

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Fit the pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and crimp the edges. Chill while preparing the filling.
In a saucepan, melt butter and dark chocolate together until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, brown sugar, cocoa powder, eggs, evaporated milk, vanilla, and salt.
Stir in the melted chocolate mixture until fully combined.
Pour the filling into the chilled crust.
Bake for 45–50 minutes, until the top is set but the center still jiggles slightly.
Cool completely before slicing to allow the filling to firm up.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 8 people. Preparation takes 20 minutes, and baking takes 45–50 minutes, plus cooling time.

Variations

Add a splash of bourbon or espresso for extra depth of flavor.
Use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate for a sweeter pie.
Sprinkle sea salt flakes on top before serving for a salted chocolate twist.
Make it nutty by adding chopped pecans to the filling.
Use a graham cracker crust instead of pastry for a different base.

Storage/Reheating

Store the pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze tightly wrapped slices for up to 2 months and thaw in the fridge before serving. To reheat, warm slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes.

FAQs

What makes a chess pie different from other pies?

Chess pie has a custard-like filling made with eggs, sugar, and butter, often enhanced with chocolate or other flavors.

Can I use cocoa powder only instead of melted chocolate?

Yes, but melted chocolate adds richness and depth to the filling.

Do I need to prebake the crust?

Not for this recipe—the crust bakes fully along with the filling.

How do I know when the pie is done?

The top will be set, but the center should still jiggle slightly; it firms up as it cools.

Can I use evaporated milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, both work well, though heavy cream makes the pie richer.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes, it keeps well in the fridge for a couple of days, making it great for entertaining.

Does the pie taste very sweet?

Using dark chocolate balances the sweetness, giving it a rich, slightly bittersweet flavor.

Can I serve it warm?

Yes, but let it cool at least 30 minutes so the filling sets slightly before slicing.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, just use a gluten-free pie crust.

What toppings go well with it?

Whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce complement it beautifully.

Conclusion

Dark Chocolate Chess Pie is a rich, fudgy twist on a Southern favorite. With its deep chocolate flavor, gooey texture, and simple preparation, it’s a dessert that never fails to impress. Perfect for holidays or casual gatherings, this pie will quickly become a go-to recipe whenever you want something indulgent and crowd-pleasing.