Homemade Chocolate Meringue Pie

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 55-60 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients:

For the Chocolate Filling:

• 2 cups white sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 egg yolks
• 1/4 cup butter

For the Meringue Topping:

• 4 egg whites
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1 teaspoon cream of tartar

For the Pie Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup shortening
• 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons water

Instructions:

For the Pie Crust:

1. In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt.
2. Incorporate the shortening until the mixture takes on a texture resembling coarse crumbs.
3. Stir in cold water until the mixture forms a ball.
4. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for 4 hours or overnight.

For the Chocolate Filling:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, and all-purpose flour.
3. Blend in evaporated milk and vanilla extract.
4. Beat the egg yolks and stir them into the mixture.
5. Add the butter and heat, stirring until the butter is melted.
6. Pour the chocolate filling into an unbaked pie shell.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the pie is no longer 'wobbly' when shaken.

For the Meringue Topping:

1. As the pie bakes, prepare for the meringue topping by following these steps:
2. In a fresh bowl, whip the egg whites until they reach a soft peak consistency.
3. Gradually add the white sugar and cream of tartar, beating constantly, until stiff peaks form.

Assembling the Pie:

1. Once the chocolate filling is set, remove the pie from the oven.
2. Spread the meringue topping evenly over the hot filling, making sure to seal the edges to prevent shrinking.
3. Return the pie to the oven and bake until the meringue is golden brown.
4. Allow the pie to cool before serving.

Enjoy your homemade chocolate meringue pie! It's a delightful dessert that will surely impress your friends and family.