
There are desserts you try once and forget, and then there are desserts that linger in your mind long after the last bite. For me, that unforgettable treat is the Angus Barn Chocolate Chess Pie. I remember my first encounter vividly. It was during a road trip to Raleigh, North Carolina, when I decided to dine at the famed Angus Barn. After a hearty meal, I hesitated before ordering dessert—but the chocolate chess pie caught my eye. One bite was all it took to fall in love. This wasn’t just a dessert; it was an experience—rich, velvety, and unapologetically indulgent. It was so good, I found myself wondering if I could ever recreate this magic at home. Spoiler: I did, and now I’m sharing the recipe with you.
What Makes Angus Barn Chocolate Chess Pie So Special?
The Angus Barn isn’t just any restaurant—it’s an iconic steakhouse in Raleigh, beloved for its top-tier steaks and decadent desserts. But the Chocolate Chess Pie? It’s in a league of its own. Imagine a silky, chocolate-rich filling with just the right balance of sweetness and complexity, cradled in a buttery, flaky crust. It’s the kind of dessert that doesn’t just satisfy your sweet tooth but leaves you planning your next bite before you’ve finished the first.
The beauty of this pie lies in its simplicity. It’s not overly fancy or adorned with unnecessary extras. The focus is on pure, unadulterated chocolate bliss. The texture is dense yet creamy, with a caramelized top that adds a subtle depth to each forkful. Pair it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, and you have a dessert that feels both nostalgic and luxurious.
My Journey to Recreating This Pie
After tasting the Angus Barn Chocolate Chess Pie, I couldn’t stop thinking about it. Determined to recreate it at home, I scoured recipes and experimented until I found the perfect balance. I’ll admit, I was skeptical about whether homemade could match the original. But the moment I pulled my version from the oven, I knew I’d nailed it. Now, it’s a staple in my dessert repertoire, and I’m thrilled to share the recipe so you can experience this indulgence for yourself.
How to Make Angus Barn Chocolate Chess Pie at Home
Ready to bring a little slice of heaven into your kitchen? Follow this step-by-step guide to create your own Angus Barn Chocolate Chess Pie.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/4 cup ice water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the filling:
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup evaporated milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Prepare the Crust
A great pie starts with a great crust. Here’s how to get that perfect buttery base:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Add the cubed butter, making sure it’s straight-from-the-fridge cold. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough comes together. It should hold its shape without being sticky.
- Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial for a flaky crust.
Preheat the Oven
While your dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Make the Filling
The filling is where the magic happens:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Take your time to ensure the ingredients are well combined.
- Add the melted butter (let it cool slightly first), followed by the eggs, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and creamy. The mixture should be rich and luscious.
Assemble the Pie
- Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface, working from the center outward to ensure even thickness. Rotate the dough frequently to prevent sticking.
- Carefully transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie pan. Trim the edges and crimp them for a decorative finish. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect—the homemade look adds charm.
- Pour the chocolate filling into the prepared crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Bake
- Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. The edges should be set, while the center remains slightly jiggly—it will firm up as it cools.
- Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. This patience pays off with clean, beautiful slices.
Serve
Finally, the moment you’ve been waiting for:
- Serve the pie at room temperature or slightly warm.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence. For extra flair, drizzle with chocolate sauce or sprinkle with shaved chocolate.
Pro tip: If you’re making this for a gathering, prepare to be bombarded with recipe requests. It’s that good.
FAQs About Angus Barn Chocolate Chess Pie
What makes this pie so special?
The combination of a rich, chocolatey filling and a buttery, flaky crust is unbeatable. It’s indulgent without being overly sweet, making it the perfect balance of flavors.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely. Bake it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover pie can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices and thaw them as needed.
Can I use a store-bought crust?
Yes, a pre-made crust works if you’re short on time. However, making the crust from scratch adds an extra layer of flavor and texture.
How should I serve this pie?
Pair it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. The contrast of warm pie and cool cream is pure perfection.
More Than a Dessert
The Angus Barn Chocolate Chess Pie is more than a dessert; it’s an experience. Whether you’re savoring it at the legendary steakhouse or recreating it in your own kitchen, this pie is sure to leave a lasting impression. Its rich, velvety filling and buttery crust make it a standout treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to indulge in one of the best desserts you’ll ever taste. Trust me, this pie is worth every bite—and then some. If you try it, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Did it live up to the hype? Let’s keep the sweet conversation going!