You know, there’s something incredibly comforting about a slice of Old-Fashioned Chocolate Meringue Pie. I can still remember my grandmother standing in her kitchen, the air thick with the sweet scent of melting chocolate and the crackle of the meringue as it baked to golden perfection. It was a family favorite, a dessert that would bring everyone together after Sunday dinner, and it’s been a staple in my own home ever since. There’s just nothing quite like that rich chocolate filling paired with that light, fluffy meringue to create a moment of pure bliss.

Old-Fashioned Chocolate Meringue Pie - detail 1

This pie is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a holiday gathering, a birthday celebration, or simply a cozy evening at home. It brings a touch of nostalgia and warmth that makes it feel special, yet it's simple enough to whip up on a whim. With each bite, you can taste the love and history that comes with a classic recipe like this. Trust me, once you try this Old-Fashioned Chocolate Meringue Pie, you’ll understand why it has a special place in so many hearts (and stomachs!).

Why You’ll Love "Old-Fashioned Chocolate Meringue Pie"

Quick and easy to make, perfect for a last-minute dessert.
Classic flavor combination that pleases both kids and adults.
Minimal ingredients, making it budget-friendly and accessible.
Can be prepared ahead of time, freeing up your day for other activities.
Freezer-friendly, allowing you to enjoy it anytime you crave a sweet treat.
Impressive presentation that will wow your guests at any gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade for a personal touch)
¼ cup (or ½ stick) unsalted butter (I love using Kerrygold for its rich flavor)
1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste if you prefer it sweeter)
¼ cup all-purpose flour (use a spoon to scoop and level for accuracy)
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-processed cocoa gives a deeper flavor)
2 cups whole milk (you can substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free option)
3 large egg yolks (make sure to reserve the whites for the meringue)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (homemade if you have it, for that extra love)
¼ teaspoon salt (just a pinch to balance the sweetness)
3 large egg whites (ensure they are at room temperature for best results)
¼ teaspoon cream of tartar (helps stabilize the meringue)
½ cup granulated sugar (for the meringue, adjust to taste)
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for a hint of extra flavor in the meringue)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your pie will bake evenly and the meringue will get that beautiful golden hue.

Make the Chocolate Filling

In a medium saucepan, melt the ¼ cup (½ stick) unsalted butter over medium heat, letting it bubble gently without burning.
Once melted, stir in 1 cup granulated sugar, ¼ cup all-purpose flour, ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Mix it until well combined and smooth.
Gradually pour in 2 cups whole milk, whisking continuously to prevent any lumps from forming.
Keep cooking this delightful mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens. It should coat the back of a spoon nicely. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and whisk in the 3 egg yolks and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until everything is well blended.
Carefully pour the rich chocolate filling into your pre-baked pie crust, smoothing it out with a spatula. This filling is the star of the show!

Prepare the Meringue

In a clean mixing bowl, add 3 large egg whites and ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar. This will help stabilize your meringue.
Using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites on medium speed until soft peaks form. This is the fun part where it starts to look fluffy!
Gradually add in ½ cup granulated sugar, a tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat on high speed. Keep going until the mixture reaches stiff peaks and is glossy. You want it to hold its shape firmly.
If you wish, add ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract here for an extra hint of flavor and mix just until combined.

Assemble and Bake

Now, spread the meringue over the chocolate filling in the pie crust. Be sure to seal the edges well to prevent shrinking. You can use the back of a spoon to create swirls for a decorative touch!
Pop the pie in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown. Keep a close eye on it because it can go from perfectly golden to overdone quickly.
Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. This step is crucial before slicing; it allows the filling to set up beautifully.

Old-Fashioned Chocolate Meringue Pie - detail 2

Variations

For a minty twist, add a few drops of peppermint extract to the chocolate filling.
Substitute the whole milk with coconut milk for a tropical flavor profile.
Make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Try adding a layer of fresh raspberries or cherries beneath the meringue for a fruity surprise.
For a lighter version, reduce the sugar in both the filling and meringue.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

Slice the Old-Fashioned Chocolate Meringue Pie into generous wedges and serve it slightly chilled or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of chocolate shavings for an extra touch of elegance. Don’t forget to keep a fork handy for those who might want seconds!

Storage

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered lightly with plastic wrap to keep the meringue from getting soggy. It should last for about 2-3 days. If you want to freeze it, I recommend freezing just the pie filling without the meringue, as it holds up better that way.

Helpful Notes

For a richer flavor, consider using dark chocolate instead of cocoa powder in the filling.
If you're short on time, a store-bought pie crust works just fine!
For those with egg allergies, use aquafaba (chickpea water) in place of egg whites for the meringue.
Feel free to adjust the sugar levels in both the filling and meringue to suit your taste.
Add a pinch of cinnamon to the filling for a warm spice note.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Old-Fashioned Chocolate Meringue Pie?

Yes, you can freeze the pie, but it's best to freeze just the chocolate filling without the meringue. The meringue doesn't freeze well and can become weepy when thawed. To freeze, let the filling cool completely, then cover it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you're ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then top it with freshly made meringue before baking.

How do I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

You can easily make a few substitutions! For the milk, almond or oat milk can be used for a dairy-free version. If you're looking to reduce sugar, feel free to cut back on the amount in the filling and meringue or use a sugar substitute that measures like sugar. For a gluten-free option, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

What is the best way to store leftovers?

Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator, covering it loosely with plastic wrap to prevent the meringue from becoming soggy. It should stay fresh for about 2-3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing just the chocolate filling without the meringue, as mentioned earlier.

Final Thoughts

Making an Old-Fashioned Chocolate Meringue Pie is truly a labor of love, and I can't stress enough how rewarding it is to see the smiles it brings to your family and friends. With its rich chocolate filling and fluffy meringue, every slice is a nostalgic hug that warms the heart. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and give this recipe a whirl! I promise you’ll be met with oohs and aahs around the table. Remember, cooking is all about joy, laughter, and a little bit of mess — and this pie encapsulates all of that beautifully. Enjoy every bite!

Old-Fashioned Chocolate Meringue Pie

Author: Emily Parker
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Old-Fashioned Chocolate Meringue Pie features a rich chocolate filling topped with a light and fluffy meringue.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Stir in the sugar, flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
Add the milk gradually, whisking to combine.
Cook until thickened, stirring constantly.
Remove from heat and whisk in the egg yolks and vanilla.
Pour the chocolate filling into the pre-baked pie crust.
In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
Gradually add the sugar, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.
Spread the meringue over the chocolate filling, sealing the edges.
Bake for 10-12 minutes until the meringue is golden.
Let cool before serving.

Notes

Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
Ensure the pie crust is fully cooled before adding filling.
For a sweeter meringue, adjust sugar to taste.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 320
Sugar: 30g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Chocolate Meringue Pie, Old-Fashioned Pie, Dessert Recipe