Chocolate chess pie is a Southern classic that combines rich, velvety chocolate with a simple, custardy filling. The Four And Twenty Blackbirds version takes this beloved dessert to the next level with a perfectly balanced sweetness and a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture. It’s the kind of pie that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
We love how this recipe stays true to tradition while adding a touch of elegance. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a special occasion, or just because, this chocolate chess pie never fails to impress. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a dessert that’s both approachable and unforgettable. Let’s dive into making this Southern favorite come to life in our kitchens.
Ingredients
To craft the Four And Twenty Blackbirds Chocolate Chess Pie, we rely on a selection of simple yet premium ingredients. These components come together to create the pie’s luxuriously smooth chocolate filling and its perfectly flaky crust.
For the Pie Crust
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
- 3 to 4 tablespoons ice water
For the Chocolate Chess Pie Filling
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 3 ounces bittersweet chocolate | finely chopped | Choose >60% cocoa for depth |
| 1 ½ cups granulated sugar | ||
| 3 large eggs | beaten | At room temperature |
| 2 tablespoons unsalted butter | melted | Cooled to preserve custard |
| 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour | Provides structure | |
| ½ cup buttermilk | For creaminess and tang | |
| 1 teaspoon vanilla extract | Enhances chocolate flavor | |
| ¼ teaspoon salt | Balances sweetness |
This ingredient list provides the foundation for our authentic Southern dessert, combining the richness of chocolate with the classic custardy chess pie texture.
Equipment Needed
To craft the Four And Twenty Blackbirds Chocolate Chess Pie perfectly, having the right equipment is essential. Each tool helps us achieve the ideal texture and presentation that makes this Southern classic stand out.
- 9-inch Pie Dish
We prefer a ceramic or glass pie dish for even heat distribution, which ensures a flaky crust and a smooth, custardy filling.
- Mixing Bowls (Medium and Large)
Use separate bowls to combine dry and wet ingredients thoroughly before mixing the chocolate filling.
- Whisk and Spatula
A whisk helps us incorporate eggs, sugar, and buttermilk thoroughly while a spatula allows for gentle folding in melted chocolate and butter.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Precise measurements of flour, sugar, and liquids are crucial for balancing the filling, so accuracy is key.
- Rolling Pin
For rolling out our flaky pie crust to an even thickness, the rolling pin is indispensable.
- Fine Mesh Sieve
This is used to sift flour and salt, ensuring a smooth dough without lumps.
- Double Boiler or Heatproof Bowl Over a Pot
Melting bittersweet chocolate gently without scorching is essential. We use a double boiler or a bowl over simmering water.
- Oven
Preheated to the right temperature to achieve the perfect bake time for a set filling with a rich chocolate flavor.
Equipment Overview Table
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 9-inch Pie Dish | Baking the pie | Ceramic or glass recommended |
| Mixing Bowls | Combining ingredients | Separate bowls for dry and wet |
| Whisk | Mixing custard filling | Evenly incorporates ingredients |
| Spatula | Folding chocolate and butter | Gentle mixing for smooth texture |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement | Essential for custard balance |
| Rolling Pin | Rolling pie dough | Ensures even thickness |
| Fine Mesh Sieve | Sifting flour and salt | Removes lumps in dough |
| Double Boiler | Melting chocolate | Prevents burning |
| Oven | Baking the pie | Preheated to the correct temp |
With these tools clearly laid out, we ensure each step in creating the Four And Twenty Blackbirds Chocolate Chess Pie is executed precisely for perfect results every time.
Prep Work
Before we dive into assembling our Four And Twenty Blackbirds Chocolate Chess Pie, it’s essential to prepare the foundation and the environment for baking. Proper prep sets the stage for a flawless, rich chocolate custard with the perfect flaky crust.
Preparing the Pie Crust
The crust is key to supporting the luscious filling while adding a buttery, flaky contrast. Let’s prepare it step-by-step:
- Chill your ingredients. Use cold unsalted butter straight from the fridge and ice-cold water to ensure a tender, flaky dough.
- Combine dry ingredients. In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and kosher salt until evenly distributed.
- Cut in the butter. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized bits remaining.
- Add ice water gradually. Drizzle 2 to 4 tablespoons of ice water, one tablespoon at a time. Gently mix until the dough just holds together without being sticky.
- Form and chill the dough. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This resting time hydrates the flour and firms the butter, preventing shrinkage during baking.
- Roll the dough. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a 12-inch circle about 1/8-inch thick. Transfer carefully to your 9-inch pie dish.
- Trim and crimp edges. Trim excess dough leaving a 1/2-inch overhang. Fold and crimp the edges for a beautiful finish.
Preheating the Oven
Preheating gives us even, consistent heat that bakes the pie to perfection.
- Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) for a steady balance of gentle baking that cooks the custard through without burning.
- Position your 9-inch ceramic or glass pie dish on the middle rack for the best heat distribution.
- If your oven struggles with even heat, consider placing a baking stone or heavy baking sheet on the rack below the pie to diffuse the heat.
| Preparation Step | Key Temperature | Time Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Pie Crust Chilling | Refrigeration | At least 1 hour |
| Oven Preheating | 350°F (175°C) | At least 20 minutes |
With our crust prepped and oven warmed, we are ready to create the iconic Four And Twenty Blackbirds Chocolate Chess Pie filling that will come next.
Directions
Follow these steps carefully to craft the perfect Four And Twenty Blackbirds Chocolate Chess Pie. Each phase from the crust to baking ensures we capture the pie’s rich flavor and custardy texture.
Making the Pie Crust
- Chill the butter and water: Place the unsalted butter and ice water in the refrigerator until very cold.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and kosher salt.
- Cut in the butter: Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, cut the chilled butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces remaining.
- Add ice water gradually: Drizzle in the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently with a fork until the dough just comes together.
- Form and chill the dough: Gather the dough into a ball, flatten it into a disk, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.
- Roll out the crust: On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a 12-inch circle about 1/8 inch thick.
- Transfer and trim: Gently place the dough into the 9-inch pie dish, trim any excess dough to 1/2 inch beyond the rim.
- Chill before filling: Refrigerate the crust-lined dish while preparing the filling to ensure flakiness.
Preparing the Chocolate Chess Pie Filling
- Melt the bittersweet chocolate: Use a double boiler or heatproof bowl set over simmering water to melt the chocolate gently, stirring until smooth.
- Whisk dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, and salt.
- Incorporate eggs and butter: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the melted butter.
- Add buttermilk and vanilla: Gradually mix in the buttermilk and vanilla extract until the filling achieves a smooth, velvety consistency.
- Fold in melted chocolate: Gently fold the cooled melted chocolate into the filling mix until fully incorporated.
Assembling the Pie
- Preheat the oven: Heat to 350°F (175°C) ensuring an even baking environment.
- Transfer filling to crust: Pour the chocolate chess pie filling into the chilled pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Prepare for baking: Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips.
Baking the Pie
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 50-55 minutes. The center will still have a slight jiggle but the edges should be set and the top lightly cracked.
- Cool gradually: Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before slicing to let the custard firm up.
- Serve and savor: The final pie should present a glossy, crackled top with a creamy, rich filling that melts in the mouth.
| Step | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preheat oven | 350°F (175°C) | – | For even baking |
| Bake pie | 350°F (175°C) | 50-55 mins | Center should jiggle slightly |
| Chill dough | – | 1 hour | Keeps the crust flaky |
| Cool pie after baking | – | 2 hours | Ensures filling sets perfectly |
Cooling and Serving Instructions
After removing our Four And Twenty Blackbirds Chocolate Chess Pie from the oven, it’s essential to let it cool properly to achieve that perfect custardy texture and rich chocolate finish. Follow these steps carefully for the best results:
- Allow the pie to rest at room temperature for at least 2 hours. This cooling period lets the filling set firmly while preserving the silky smooth consistency that characterizes this classic chess pie.
- Once the pie has cooled down, transfer it to the refrigerator. Chill for an additional 1 to 2 hours if you prefer a firmer slice and an enhanced chocolate flavor because colder temperatures deepen the taste profile.
- Before serving, let the pie sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes if it’s been refrigerated, allowing the filling to soften slightly for a melt-in-the-mouth experience.
Serving Suggestions
We recommend serving the Four And Twenty Blackbirds Chocolate Chess Pie with these accompaniments to complement its rich, bittersweet character:
| Serving Idea | Description |
|---|---|
| Whipped Cream | Lightly sweetened, fresh whipped cream adds airiness |
| Fresh Berries | Raspberries or strawberries offer a tangy contrast |
| Vanilla Ice Cream | Creamy cold ice cream balances the warm chocolate pie |
| Dusting of Cocoa Powder | Enhances chocolate aroma and visual appeal |
“The magic of a chess pie lies in its simple richness—cooling it just right lets every bite tell the story.”
Final Serving Tip
Use a sharp serrated knife for clean slices and a pie server to lift pieces gently. This maintains the pie’s smooth glossy top and creamy texture, showcasing the classic elegance of the Four And Twenty Blackbirds Chocolate Chess Pie every time we serve it.
Storage Tips
To maintain the Four And Twenty Blackbirds Chocolate Chess Pie’s rich texture and deep flavor, proper storage is essential. Follow these steps for the best results:
Cooling and Refrigeration
- After baking, let the pie cool completely at room temperature for at least 2 hours to allow the custard to set properly.
- Once cooled, cover the pie loosely with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.
- Store the pie in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The cool temperature helps preserve the custardy filling and enhances the chocolate flavor.
Serving from Storage
- Remove the pie from the fridge about 10 to 15 minutes before serving to let it soften slightly.
- This resting time allows the filling’s texture to regain its signature creaminess and releases the pie’s full chocolate aroma.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to keep your pie longer, freezing is an effective option:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| Wrap | Tightly cover the pie with plastic wrap, then foil to prevent freezer burn. |
| Freeze Duration | Freeze for up to 1 month to maintain quality. |
| Thawing | Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. |
| Reheat (Optional) | Warm gently for 10 minutes at 300°F (150°C) if preferred slightly warm. |
“Storage is crucial for preserving our pie’s signature smooth texture and balanced chocolate richness.“
Avoid storing the pie at room temperature for more than 2 hours after serving to prevent the custard from spoiling. Following these storage tips ensures every slice of our chocolate chess pie delivers the classic comfort and elegance we love.
Conclusion
This Four And Twenty Blackbirds Chocolate Chess Pie recipe brings together simplicity and sophistication in every bite. With just a handful of quality ingredients and a straightforward process, we can create a dessert that feels both comforting and elegant.
By following the tips for preparation, baking, and storage, we ensure each slice is perfectly rich and creamy. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a cozy night in, this pie never fails to impress. Let’s keep this Southern classic in our baking repertoire for a timeless treat that everyone will love.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is chocolate chess pie?
Chocolate chess pie is a classic Southern dessert featuring a rich, custardy filling made with chocolate. It combines a smooth, sweet custard with a flaky pie crust, delivering comfort and elegance in every slice.
What makes the Four And Twenty Blackbirds version special?
This version balances sweetness perfectly and offers a smooth texture, enhancing the traditional chocolate chess pie while keeping the recipe simple and accessible for home bakers.
What ingredients are needed for the pie crust?
You will need all-purpose flour, kosher salt, unsalted butter, and ice water to make a flaky, tender pie crust.
What ingredients are important for the filling?
The filling includes bittersweet chocolate, granulated sugar, eggs, melted butter, all-purpose flour, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and salt for a rich and creamy custard.
What equipment is essential for making this pie?
A 9-inch ceramic or glass pie dish, mixing bowls, whisk, spatula, measuring cups and spoons, rolling pin, fine mesh sieve, and a double boiler or heatproof bowl for melting chocolate.
How should I prepare the pie crust?
Chill the butter and ice water, mix dry ingredients, cut in the butter, add water gradually, form the dough, chill it, then roll out and fit into the pie dish before baking.
At what temperature and for how long should I bake the pie?
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50-55 minutes until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
How long should I cool the pie before serving?
Cool the pie for at least 2 hours at room temperature, then chill for 1-2 hours for firmer slices. Let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.
What are some good serving suggestions?
Serve with lightly sweetened whipped cream, fresh berries, vanilla ice cream, or a dusting of cocoa powder to complement the rich chocolate flavor.
How do I store leftover chocolate chess pie?
Cool completely at room temperature, refrigerate for up to 4 days, or freeze wrapped tightly for up to 1 month. Let pie rest at room temperature 10-15 minutes before serving.