Experience the ultimate throwback comfort with this Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pudding Pie Recipe, a classic dessert that brings together a silky homemade chocolate pudding nestled in a buttery pie crust. Every slice is a nostalgic delight, featuring a rich, creamy filling that’s both luxurious and familiar, topped with billows of whipped cream and delicate chocolate shavings. This pie is easy enough for a weeknight treat but special enough to steal the show at any celebration. Whether you grew up on this timeless dessert or you’re savoring it for the first time, this recipe captures the magic of homemade pudding pie in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredient list for this Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pudding Pie Recipe keeps things classic and simple, showcasing high-quality basics that work together for unbeatable flavor and texture. Each element has an important job, from giving the pudding its glossy finish to ensuring every forkful is creamy and chocolatey.
- Pre-baked 9-inch pie crust: The essential base that holds the luscious filling; choose homemade for a buttery touch or store-bought for quick convenience.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the pudding without overpowering the chocolate flavor; adjust slightly to taste.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (1/4 cup): Delivers that deep, classic chocolate taste and beautiful dark color.
- Cornstarch (1/4 cup): The secret to a silky, thick pudding that slices beautifully after chilling.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Just a pinch makes the chocolate flavor pop and balances the sweetness.
- Whole milk (2 3/4 cups): Creates a luscious, creamy texture—don’t substitute with low-fat for best results.
- Large egg yolks (4): Enrich the pudding for a custardy feel and help thicken the filling.
- Semi-sweet chocolate, chopped (4 ounces): Adds pure chocolatey decadence and a smooth finish to the pudding.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Gives the pudding a velvety mouthfeel and subtle richness.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Heightens all the other flavors with just the right touch of aroma and sweetness.
- Whipped cream (optional): For a classic topping that offers a light, airy contrast to the dense pudding.
- Chocolate shavings (optional): Sprinkled on top, they add elegance and a little crunch.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pudding Pie Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Grab a medium saucepan and combine the sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. Whisking these ingredients together first means your pudding will be lump-free and evenly flavored from the get-go. There’s something deeply satisfying about watching the cocoa swirl through the sugar!
Step 2: Add the Milk
Slowly pour the whole milk into the saucepan, whisking constantly as you go. This helps the cornstarch dissolve and ensures a silky base. It’ll look a little thin at first—don’t worry, your patience will be rewarded with thick, dreamy pudding.
Step 3: Cook Until Thick
Place your saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring all the while. Keep the whisk moving as the mixture warms up and thickens—this takes about 6 to 8 minutes. Once it starts bubbling, you’ll know the magic is happening!
Step 4: Temper the Egg Yolks
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Then, slowly pour about half a cup of the hot pudding mixture into the yolks, whisking constantly. This step gently brings up the temperature of the eggs so they blend in smoothly, avoiding any scrambled egg surprises in your pie.
Step 5: Combine and Finish Cooking
Pour the egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan. Continue cooking—and keep stirring!—for another 2 to 3 minutes, until the pudding is thick, glossy, and irresistible. You’ll see it firm up just enough to hold its own once cooled.
Step 6: Finish with Chocolate, Butter, and Vanilla
Take the pot off the heat. Immediately add in the chopped semi-sweet chocolate, butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until completely smooth and shiny. This is where the pudding takes on that classic, rich flavor and creamy finish that’s unmistakable.
Step 7: Assemble and Chill
Pour the warm pudding into your baked pie crust, smoothing the top to the edges. Let the pie cool for a few minutes, then gently lay plastic wrap directly onto the pudding’s surface—this crucial trick prevents a skin from forming. Pop the pie in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or until set.
Step 8: Top and Serve
Once your Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pudding Pie Recipe is thoroughly chilled, crown it’s silky surface with generous swoops of whipped cream and a flurry of chocolate shavings. Slice and enjoy every decadent bite!
How to Serve Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pudding Pie Recipe
Garnishes
To make each slice a little celebration, pile on freshly whipped cream and sprinkle with chocolate shavings or curls. You can even add a dusting of cocoa powder or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra flair. These touches make the Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pudding Pie Recipe all the more inviting and memorable.
Side Dishes
Pair this dessert with a cup of strong coffee or espresso to balance the richness, or offer fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries alongside for a colorful, tart contrast. A scoop of vanilla ice cream is never out of place next to a chilled slice!
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, try serving the pudding pie in individual tart shells or small mason jars—adorable and portable! Use cookie cutters to cut cooled pie into fun shapes, or pipe the pudding mixture into parfait glasses with layers of cookie crumbs for an elegant twist on a classic. The Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pudding Pie Recipe never fails to impress, no matter how you serve it.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Simply cover any leftover pie with plastic wrap (make sure it touches the pudding surface to prevent a skin) and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The filling stays creamy and the flavors mellow even more, making each returning slice as satisfying as the first.
Freezing
While the pie can be frozen, know that the texture might change a bit after thawing. To freeze, wrap the cooled pie tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for best results.
Reheating
This pie is at its best served cold straight from the fridge, so no need to reheat! But if you prefer, let a slice come to room temperature for 10 minutes before enjoying. Avoid microwaving, as that can make the pudding runny and the crust soggy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Dessert
Absolutely! Try bittersweet chocolate for a deeper, more intense flavor, or even milk chocolate for a sweeter, creamier pudding. Just be sure to use 4 ounces and chop it finely so it melts smoothly.
What’s the secret to a smooth, lump-free pudding?
Constant whisking and gradually adding the milk to the dry ingredients help avoid lumps. Tempering the eggs is essential too, and straining the hot pudding through a fine sieve before pouring it into the crust ensures utter silkiness if you want to go the extra mile.
Can I make the Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pudding Pie Recipe with a different crust?
Definitely! A graham cracker or Oreo cookie crust brings a delicious twist. Just make sure to pre-bake it (if needed) so it stands up to the rich filling.
How do I prevent the pudding from forming a skin while chilling?
Lay plastic wrap directly onto the pudding’s surface before refrigerating. This direct contact stops air from creating that chewy layer on top and keeps your pudding impossibly smooth.
Is it possible to make this pie ahead for a party?
Yes, and it’s actually ideal! Make it the day before, refrigerate overnight, and simply top with whipped cream and garnishes just before serving. The Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pudding Pie Recipe sets up beautifully and slices cleanly when well-chilled.
Final Thoughts
This Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pudding Pie Recipe is pure nostalgia and joy in every forkful. Whether you’re out to impress guests or just treating yourself to some weekday coziness, this pie brings back cherished memories while making plenty of new ones. Give it a try and taste why this classic deserves a permanent spot in your recipe box!
Print
Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pudding Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and creamy delight of this Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pudding Pie. A luscious homemade chocolate pudding fills a flaky pie crust, topped with airy whipped cream and chocolate shavings for the perfect finish.
Ingredients
Pie Crust:
- 1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Chocolate Pudding Filling:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 3/4 cups whole milk
- 4 large egg yolks
- 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Toppings:
- Whipped cream for topping (optional)
- Chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan: Whisk together sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth.
- Cook pudding mixture: Place saucepan over medium heat, stir constantly until thickened and bubbling (6–8 minutes).
- Temper egg yolks: Whisk yolks in a separate bowl. Slowly pour hot pudding into yolks while whisking. Return mixture to saucepan and cook until thick (2–3 minutes).
- Add chocolate and butter: Remove from heat, stir in chocolate, butter, and vanilla until smooth. Pour into pie crust.
- Chill and serve: Cool slightly, cover with plastic wrap, refrigerate for at least 4 hours. Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.
Notes
- For a deeper flavor, use dark chocolate or add espresso.
- Variation: Try with a graham cracker or Oreo crust.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
