Chocolate Chess Pie

I got this recipe from a coworker in the 1970s and it's become my go-to for gatherings, holidays, and gifts.

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Chocolate Chess Pie Save
Chocolate Chess Pie

I got this recipe from a coworker in the 1970s and it's become my go-to for gatherings, holidays, and gifts.

  • Preparing Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Served Person: 12
  • Carbohydrate 24.7431066967756 g
  • Cholesterol 189.121666666667 mg
  • Fat 17.0519387010672 g
  • Fiber 0.767863029944334 g
  • Protein 8.66995861000055 g
  • Saturated Fat 6.95941246860525 g
  • Serving Size 1 1 Serving (151g)
  • Sodium 14216.7906295454 mg
  • Sugar 23.9752436668312 g
  • Trans Fat 1.77367706546234 g
  • Calories 288 calories

Step-by-step

  • Beat 4 large eggs with one large can Pet Milk.
  • Add 1 stick melted butter (not hot) and 2 tsp vanilla.
  • Gradually beat in 3 cups sugar mixed with 6 TBL cocoa.
  • Beat well.
  • Pour into unbaked pie shells (makes two 10 inch pies).
  • Bake 15 minutes at 350 degrees.
  • Reduce heat to 275 degrees and bake 45 minutes more.

Why is the oven temperature dropping mid-bake? The transition from three hundred fifty degrees down to two hundred seventy-five degrees prevents the high sugar content from burning before the center sets. Controlling this heat shift requires an accurate oven thermometer, because many kitchen ranges drift significantly from their dial settings during long bakes. Whisking the melted butter into the eggs and evaporated milk while it is merely lukewarm ensures the dairy proteins will not curdle prematurely upon contact. Gradually incorporating the sugar and cocoa mixture prevents stubborn dry pockets from forming at the bottom of the mixing bowl. Two standard deep-dish pie shells accommodate the generous batter volume generated by this recipe. Sequencing the prep work efficiently means measuring the dry ingredients first so the wet components can be beaten rapidly without overworking the eggs. Setting the baked pies on a wire rack allows ambient air to circulate underneath, preventing the bottom crust from becoming soggy as steam escapes. Room temperature storage is adequate for short periods, but chilling the sliced portions helps achieve clean, sharp edges on the plate.