Chocolate Pie

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup baking sugar
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 3 tbsp cocoa powder
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 egg yolks
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 (9-inch) pie crust (baked)
• Whipped cream

Method:

In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until steaming but not boiling. 

In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, salt, cocoa powder, and flour.

Gradually whisk the dry ingredients into the hot milk. Cook for 2-3 minutes, whisking constantly, until thickened.

Temper the beaten egg yolks by slowly whisking in a few spoons of the hot milk mixture. Then whisk the egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan.

Continue cooking for 2 more minutes, whisking constantly, until the pudding thickens more.

Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

 Pour the hot chocolate pudding into the pre-baked pie crust and smooth the top.

 Allow to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

 Top with dollops or swirls of Cool Whip or sweetened whipped cream before slicing.

For a richer pie, use half-and-half or cream instead of milk. Add a teaspoon of instant coffee powder or espresso for mocha flavor. Garnish with chocolate shavings or cocoa powder if desired.