🍰 Old Fashioned Chocolate Pie with Golden Meringue 🍫

A Slice of Heaven Perfect for Every Occasion! Indulge in the rich, silky smoothness of homemade chocolate filling topped with a light, fluffy golden meringue.

🍽️ Ingredients 🍽️
- 1/4 cup butter
- 3 egg whites
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 egg yolks
- 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
- 1/2 cup sugar (for meringue)
- 1 pie crust, baked

🧑‍🍳 Directions 🧑‍🍳
1. Prepare the Crust: If not using a pre-baked crust, bake your pie crust according to your favorite recipe or package instructions. Set aside to cool.
2. Make the Filling: In a medium saucepan, combine cocoa powder, 1 cup sugar, flour, and milk. Stir well. Add egg yolks and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens into a creamy consistency. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
3. Pour Filling: Pour the chocolate filling into the cooled pie crust, smoothing out the top with a spatula.
4. Whip Meringue: In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add 1/2 cup sugar while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.
5. Top with Meringue: Gently spread the meringue over the chocolate filling, ensuring it reaches the edges to seal the filling in.
6. Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown.
7. Cool: Allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature to set the filling before slicing.

🍎 Nutritional Information 🍎
- Calories: 320 per slice
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Proteins: 5g
- Fats: 15g
- Sugars: 30g

💡 Tips and Tricks 💡
- For a deeper chocolate flavor, use a high-quality cocoa powder.
- Ensure all utensils used for whipping the meringue are completely grease-free to achieve the best volume.
- Chill the pie for at least 2 hours before serving for easier slicing.

⏳ Preparation Time ⏳
- Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Serving: 8 servings

Enjoy this delightful dessert that combines the classic charm of a chocolate pie with the elegant touch of a meringue topping. Perfect for any gathering or just a special treat at home!