Soft Chocolate Pie

    The recipe was probably the most difficult one we have done so far.  I had to make a pie crust, chocolate pudding, and a meringue.

    I made my pie crust the day before I made the pudding and meringue.   I used the crust leftover from when I made my quiche.  I poked some holes into it and baked it in the oven at 450 degrees for 8-9 minutes.  The holes helped to prevent any air bubbles forming underneath the crust.

    I made my chocolate pudding next.  I started by getting all of my ingredients and equipment out so I had what I needed ready.  Next, I cracked my eggs and separated the yolks using an egg separator.  I beat the yolks using a Mexican whisk.  I put the whites in a different bowl to use later for my meringue. 

    I then measured the sugar, salt, cornstarch, and cocoa powder and added it to a saucepan.  I made sure to mix these ingredients well with a whisk.  Once it was well combined, I gradually added the milk.  I then placed the pan over the stove at medium heat.  I had to stir the mixture very often to prevent burning. 

    While the pudding was thickening, I started on the meringue.  I started by mixing the egg whites until they were frothy.  I then added in vanilla and cream of tarter and mixed until it was at a soft peak.  Once it reached a soft peak, I added sugar slowly and beat until stiff peaks began to form.

    After the pudding thickened, I added a cup of it to my yolks to temper them.  I mixed the yolks and added them to the pudding.  If I would've skipped this step, my pudding would've had chunks of eggs in them.  I then let my pudding cook for about two more minutes.  Next, I removed the pan from the heat and added the vanilla.

    I added my pudding into the pre-baked pie crust and topped it with the meringue.  I placed it into the oven at 350 degrees to bake for 10-12 minutes.  Once it was done cooking, I had to let it set about 4 hours before I ate it.

    My pie looked very delicious.  The meringue and the pie crust were both nicely golden brown.  I enjoyed the taste of my chocolate pie.  I liked the homemade pudding better than the instant pudding I usually have a home.  It had a soft and smooth texture.  But I didn't really care for the meringue.  I thought it tasted "airy" and I didn't like the texture of it.  I had my parents try my pie, and my mom didn't like the meringue but my dad did.  If I were to make this pie again, I would probably just put cool whip on top instead.

Unfortunately, I didn't get as many pictures with this recipe because I was too busy making sure I did every correctly instead of taking pictures.