Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie

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 ingredients to the melted butter, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

Add Milk:
Slowly add the milk while stirring to keep the mixture smooth.

Cook Until Thickened:
Cook the mixture for 5-7 minutes, stirring often, until it thickens. Once thickened, remove from heat.

Temper Egg Yolks:
Whisk the egg yolks and gradually add a spoonful of the hot chocolate mixture to temper them. Stir the tempered yolks into the saucepan.

Finish Cooking:
Return the saucepan to the heat and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Stir in the vanilla extract, then remove from heat.

Assemble Pie:
Pour the chocolate filling into the pre-baked pie crust.

Prepare Meringue:
Beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually 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 to prevent shrinking.

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. Enjoy!

Serving and Storage Tips