Golden Corral Chocolate Chess Pie Recipe: Simple Steps for a Fudgy, Rich Treat

Welcome to the delicious world of homemade baking! Today, we’re diving into a recipe that brings the comforting, classic flavors of the South right to your table: Golden Corral Chocolate Chess Pie Recipe. This pie is rich, fudgy, and irresistibly smooth with a crisp crust that perfectly balances the gooey filling. Whether you’re a chocolate lover or just in the mood for something sweet and nostalgic, this recipe will show you how to recreate that Golden Corral magic at home with just a few simple ingredients and easy steps. Let’s get baking

Recipe Overview

Golden Corral’s Chocolate Chess Pie is a rich, decadent dessert that combines smooth chocolate flavor with a gooey, fudgy filling and a perfectly crisp crust. This Southern classic has won hearts with its simplicity and deep, chocolatey taste. The chess pie itself has origins in Southern cuisine and embodies comfort and indulgence. This recipe will guide you step-by-step to recreate this restaurant favorite right in your kitchen, perfect for any occasion.

What is Golden Corral Chocolate Chess Pie Recipe?

Golden Corral Chocolate Chess Pie Recipe is a classic Southern dessert with a fudgy chocolate filling made from simple ingredients like sugar, butter, eggs, and cocoa powder. Known for its creamy, custard-like consistency, this pie is rich and sweet, often topped with whipped cream to balance its chocolate intensity. Unlike traditional chess pies, which are typically vanilla or lemon-flavored, this version uses cocoa powder to give it a satisfying chocolate kick.

What Makes This Pie Special?

This Golden Corral Chocolate Chess Pie Recipe is so loved because of its contrast between a slightly crispy top layer and its creamy, dense filling. The sweetness is balanced with a hint of salt, and the gooey texture makes it a true treat for chocolate lovers. It’s easy to make, requires no fancy equipment, and uses ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. With the Golden Corral twist, you get a classic Southern dessert in every slice.

Ingredients

To make the Golden Corral Chocolate Chess Pie Recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Filling

• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 3 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• ½ cup evaporated milk (or whole milk for a creamier texture)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Crust

• 1 store-bought or homemade pie crust, pre-baked according to package instructions (or homemade crust if preferred)

Equipment

Below I have listed the exact equipment required to make the Golden Corral Chocolate Chess Pie Recipe:

• Mixing bowls – For combining the ingredients.
• Whisk – To mix ingredients smoothly and create a consistent texture.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For precise ingredient measurements.
• 9-inch pie pan – To bake the pie evenly.
• Wire rack – For cooling the pie after baking.
• Baking sheet (optional) – To place under the pie pan in case of spills.

How To Make Chocolate Chess Pie (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. If using a homemade crust, roll it out and place it into the 9-inch pie pan. Trim and crimp the edges if desired.
3. Pre-bake the crust if you prefer a sturdier base. Blind-bake by adding pie weights over parchment paper for about 10 minutes. Allow it to cool.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, cocoa powder, flour, and salt until thoroughly combined. This ensures an even texture in the filling without lumps of cocoa or flour.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs lightly, then add the melted butter, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well combined. The mixture should be smooth and thick with no visible lumps.

Step 5: Pour and Bake

1. Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
2. Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is set and has a slightly crackly texture. The filling will continue to firm as it cools.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

1. Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for at least an hour before slicing. This cooling step helps set the filling.

Serving Suggestions

Below I have listed some serving suggestions for the Golden Corral Chocolate Chess Pie Recipe:

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the dense pie.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream balances the pie’s richness with its creamy, cool texture.
• Fresh Berries: Serve with raspberries or strawberries to add a bit of tartness.
• Powdered Sugar Dusting: Lightly dust powdered sugar over the top for a festive look.

Storage Techniques

• Room Temperature: Store the pie in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.
• Refrigerator: For longer storage, cover with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to five days.
• Freezing: Wrap the entire pie or individual slices in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Expert Tips

Below I have mentioned some tips for your Golden Corral Chocolate Chess Pie Recipe:

1. Use Room-Temperature Eggs: This helps the ingredients blend more smoothly and prevents the filling from curdling.
2. Avoid Overbaking: The filling will continue to set as it cools, so it’s okay if it looks slightly jiggly when you first remove it from the oven.
3. High-Quality Cocoa Powder: Invest in high-quality cocoa powder for a rich, intense chocolate flavor.
4. Cool Completely: Patience is key! Cooling fully ensures the pie slices cleanly and the filling has a smooth texture.

Health Benefits

• Antioxidants in Cocoa: Cocoa powder contains antioxidants that can benefit heart health and reduce inflammation.
• Vitamin A from Eggs: Eggs provide vitamin A, essential for vision and immune function.
• Moderation in Indulgence: While this pie is calorie-dense, enjoying it occasionally can fit into a balanced diet and boost mood through its rich chocolatey flavor.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 380
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Sodium: 190mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 38g
• Protein: 4g

History and Origin

Chess pie originated in the American South and is a staple of Southern baking. The name “chess pie” is thought to come from the term “just pie,” indicating that it required few ingredients. With time, variations of the pie emerged, including chocolate, lemon, and buttermilk chess pies. The chocolate version gained popularity, becoming a favorite for those who wanted a richer, more indulgent flavor. Today, it’s a dessert that brings Southern warmth and hospitality to tables nationwide.

Wrapping Up

Golden Corral’s Chocolate Chess Pie is an ideal dessert for anyone who loves a touch of Southern charm. It’s easy to make, loaded with rich chocolate flavor, and offers a perfect balance between fudgy filling and crispy crust. Whether you’re serving it for a special gathering or just to treat yourself, this pie promises to impress. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a decadent dessert that’s worth every bite.

Some Other Recipes You’ll Love

• Tomato Jam Recipe
• Ground Venison Recipes
• Texas Roadhouse Mashed Potatoes Recipe
• Chow Chow Recipe

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use regular milk instead of evaporated milk?
Yes, you can substitute whole milk or even half-and-half for a slightly creamier texture, but evaporated milk is ideal for a denser filling.

2. Do I need to refrigerate the pie after baking?
While it can sit at room temperature for a day or two, refrigerating it will keep it fresh longer.

3. Can I use a pre-made pie crust?
Absolutely! A store-bought crust can save time and still taste delicious.

4. Why is my pie filling runny?
If the pie filling doesn’t set, it may have been undercooked or not cooled completely. Make sure to bake until the top is set and allow enough cooling time.

5. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, Chocolate Chess Pie can be made a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator, and let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.