There are certain recipes that instantly transport you to another time. One bite, and suddenly, you’re seven years old again, sitting at your grandma’s wobbly wooden kitchen table, swinging your legs as you eagerly await dessert. For me, that magical dessert was always an old fashioned chocolate pie. And not just any chocolate pie—Paula Deen’s Chocolate Pie. Well, my slightly tweaked, slightly sassier version of it.
It all started on a sleepy Sunday afternoon. You know the kind—the house smells like slow-cooked comfort food, and you’re curled up in your favorite oversized sweater, flipping through an old cookbook your mom left behind. That’s exactly where I found myself when I stumbled upon an aged, butter-stained page that read: Grandma’s Chocolate Pie.

Now, I don’t know about you, but when I see words like “Grandma’s” and “Chocolate” together, I take it as a personal challenge. Was this chocolate pie recipe as good as my childhood memories made it out to be? Could it possibly live up to the nostalgia-soaked standards of Southern Chocolate Pie or an Easy Fudge Pie Recipe? There was only one way to find out.
I dusted off my apron, grabbed my whisk, and got to work. I took inspiration from Paula Deen’s classic Homemade Chocolate Pie and infused it with a little of my own kitchen magic. The result? A pie so rich, so smooth, and so downright dreamy that it could bring even the most chocolate-resistant soul to their knees. It’s part Old Fashioned Chocolate Meringue Pie, part German Chocolate Pie Recipe, and 100% guaranteed to make you weak in the knees.
Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Pie

- It’s Pure Southern Comfort: This chocolate pie tastes like a hug from your grandma, wrapped in a flaky crust and kissed with velvety chocolate. There’s just something about a homemade pie that feels like home, isn’t there?
- Only 20 Minutes to Make: Yes, you read that right. While most people assume making a Chocolate Cream Pie requires hours in the kitchen, this one comes together in no time. Quick enough for weeknights, fancy enough for Sunday dinner.
- Silky, Dreamy Texture: We’re talking melt-in-your-mouth, close-your-eyes-and-swoon levels of chocolatey goodness. This isn’t just a pie—it’s an experience.
- Customizable and Foolproof: Whether you prefer a deep, rich chocolate flavor or something lighter, this Easy Chocolate Pie can be adjusted to suit your taste buds. And if you’re feeling fancy, top it with homemade whipped cream, meringue, or even a scoop of ice cream.
- Great for Every Occasion: From family gatherings to holiday tables to those random Tuesday nights when you just need a chocolate fix, this pie never disappoints. Trust me, your guests (or just you and your spoon) will thank you.
- Uses Simple, Everyday Ingredients: No need for fancy ingredients—just pantry staples and a little love. Plus, you probably have everything you need already sitting in your kitchen.
- A Nostalgic Classic: This recipe brings back the charm of Yummy Pie Recipes from generations past. If you’ve ever had a slice of your grandma’s Best Chocolate Pie, you know exactly what I mean.
Ingredients for Paula Deen’s Chocolate Pie

- 1 pre-made or homemade pie crust
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large egg yolks
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Whipped cream or meringue for topping (optional)
Equipment:
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Mixing bowls
- Pie dish
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make Paula Deen’s Chocolate Pie

- Prepare the Crust: If you’re using a homemade crust, roll it out and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Pre-bake according to the instructions. If using a store-bought crust, bake it as directed. Set aside.
- Make the Filling: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk together sugar, cocoa powder, flour, and salt.
- Add the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks and milk together. Slowly add this mixture to the dry ingredients in the saucepan, whisking constantly.
- Cook Until Thick: Continue stirring over medium heat until the mixture thickens into a pudding-like consistency. This should take about 7-10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and butter until smooth.
- Assemble the Pie: Pour the chocolate filling into the pre-baked crust and smooth it out with a spatula.
- Chill and Set: Let the pie cool at room temperature for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to the fridge for at least 2 hours to set completely.
- Add Toppings & Serve: Once set, top with whipped cream or a light meringue. Slice, serve, and enjoy!
Notes
- Go for a Buttery Crust: A homemade, buttery pie crust will take this recipe to the next level.
- Whisk Like You Mean It: Stirring constantly while cooking prevents lumps and keeps your filling silky smooth.
- Chill Time is Key: Don’t rush the setting process. A well-chilled pie holds together beautifully when sliced.
- Add a Pinch of Espresso Powder: This will deepen the chocolate flavor without making it taste like coffee.
- Try a Graham Cracker Crust: If you want an easy chocolate pie, this is a no-fuss way to switch things up.
- Top it Off: Whipped cream, a dusting of cocoa, or even a drizzle of caramel will take this pie over the top.

Macronutrients Per Serving
- Calories: 320
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 32g
Bonus Pro Tips
- Go for a Buttery Crust: A homemade, buttery pie crust will take this recipe to the next level. If you’re in a pinch, a store-bought crust will do, but nothing beats the rich, flaky texture of homemade pastry.
- Whisk Like You Mean It: Stirring constantly while cooking prevents lumps and keeps your filling silky smooth. No one wants a grainy chocolate pie!
- Chill Time is Key: Don’t rush the setting process. A well-chilled pie holds together beautifully when sliced and enhances the flavor.
- Add a Pinch of Espresso Powder: This will deepen the chocolate flavor without making it taste like coffee, making the pie even more decadent.
- Try a Graham Cracker Crust: If you want an Easy Chocolate Pie, this is a no-fuss way to switch things up and add a hint of caramelized sweetness.
- Top it Off: Whipped cream, a dusting of cocoa, or even a drizzle of caramel will take this pie over the top. For a crunch, try chopped nuts or chocolate shavings.

Chocolate Pie Chronicles: Your Burning Questions Answered
1. What should I serve with this pie? This pie pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a warm cup of coffee. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a sweet-salty contrast.
2. How do I make this recipe even easier? To make things ultra-simple, use a pre-made pie crust and a microwave to heat the filling instead of the stovetop (just be sure to stir frequently to avoid lumps).
3. Can I make this pie ahead of time? Absolutely! This pie actually tastes even better after a day in the fridge, as the flavors have time to meld together. Just be sure to cover it tightly to prevent it from absorbing any fridge odors.
4. Can I freeze this pie? Yes! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.
5. What if my pie filling doesn’t thicken? Make sure you’re cooking the filling long enough—about 7-10 minutes over medium heat, whisking constantly. If it still looks too runny, a bit more cooking time should do the trick.