Ingredients:
1 ½ cups sugar
⅓ cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)
¼ cup cornstarch (or ⅓ cup flour)
¼ teaspoon salt
3 cups whole milk
3 large egg yolks
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 pre-baked pie crust (9-inch)
Optional Topping:
Whipped cream
Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder
Instructions:
In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch (or flour), and salt.
Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture begins to thicken and comes to a gentle boil.
In a small bowl, beat the egg yolks. Slowly whisk in a few tablespoons of the hot chocolate mixture to temper the eggs.
Gradually whisk the egg mixture back into the saucepan.
Continue cooking for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, until thickened.
Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
Pour the chocolate filling into the pre-baked pie crust.
Let the pie cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until set.
Before serving, top with whipped cream and sprinkle with chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder if desired.
Enjoy!