Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie

Ingredients:
1 pre-baked pie crust
¼ cup butter
1 cup sugar
¼ cup flour
½ cup cocoa powder
2 cups milk
3 egg yolks
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 egg whites
¼ tsp cream of tartar
½ cup sugar
Directions:
Preheat Oven:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Melt Butter:
Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, and cocoa powder.
Gradually add the dry mixture to the melted butter, stirring to prevent any lumps.
Add Milk:
Slowly add the milk to the saucepan while stirring until the mixture is smooth.
Cook Until Thickened:
Cook the mixture for 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens. Once thickened, remove from heat.
Temper Egg Yolks:
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Add a spoonful of the hot chocolate mixture to the yolks to temper them, then gradually stir the yolks back into the saucepan.
Finish Cooking:
Return the saucepan to the heat and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. Stir in the vanilla extract and remove from heat.
Assemble the Pie:
Pour the chocolate filling into the pre-baked pie crust and spread evenly.
Prepare Meringue:
In a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
Add the sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
Top with Meringue:
Spread the meringue over the chocolate filling, making sure to seal the edges of the pie crust.
Bake:
Bake the pie for 10-12 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown.
Cool and Serve:
Allow the pie to cool completely before serving. This allows the filling to set properly.
Serving Suggestion:
Enjoy this rich and velvety chocolate pie with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh berries for an added touch.
This pie is perfect for any dessert occasion! 🍫🥧