Classic Old-Fashioned Chocolate Pie (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Chocolate Filling

01 - 1 pre-baked pie crust
02 - 60 g butter
03 - 200 g sugar
04 - 30 g flour
05 - 40 g cocoa powder
06 - 480 ml milk
07 - 3 egg yolks
08 - 1 tsp vanilla extract

→ Meringue Topping

09 - 3 egg whites
10 - 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
11 - 100 g sugar

# Instructions:

01 - Set the oven to 175°C (350°F).
02 - Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, and cocoa powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to the melted butter, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Slowly pour in the milk, stirring until smooth. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat.
03 - In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Add a spoonful of the warm chocolate mixture to the yolks, whisking quickly to prevent scrambling. Gradually pour the tempered yolks back into the saucepan, stirring well. Return to low heat and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and mix in the vanilla extract.
04 - Pour the chocolate filling into the pre-baked pie crust, spreading evenly.
05 - In a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Slowly add the sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks develop.
06 - Spread the meringue over the chocolate filling, ensuring it reaches the edges of the crust to seal. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown.
07 - Let the pie cool completely before slicing to allow the filling to set properly.

# Notes:

01 - Ensure the meringue seals the edges of the pie crust to prevent shrinking during baking.