Many people love the Angus Barn in Raleigh, North Carolina, not only for its delicious steaks but also for its famous Chocolate Chess Pie. People have loved this treat for decades because of its rich, fudgy filling and thin, crackly top. In this article, we will dive into the history of this well-known pie, give you a thorough Angus Barn Chocolate Chess Pie recipe, and give you tips on how to make this Southern classic at home.
The Legacy of Angus Barn
Thad Eure Jr. and Charles M. Winston built the Angus Barn in 1960, and it has become a famous building in Raleigh, North Carolina. The restaurant is known for its cozy, country feel and friendly service. It is located in a barn and serves good food. The Chocolate Chess Pie is one of the restaurant’s signature desserts. Its rich taste and creamy texture make it a hit with guests.
What is Chocolate Chess Pie?
Chocolate Chess Pie is a traditional Southern treat that tastes rich even though it only has a few ingredients. The pie has a smooth, chocolatey filling and a slightly crisp top layer that looks like a brownie. It all goes inside a flaky pie crust. It’s thought that the name “chess pie” comes from the phrase “just pie,” which shows how simple its ingredients are.
Ingredients
You’ll need the following things to make the Angus Barn Chocolate Chess Pie:
- Pie Crust: One 9-inch pie shell, either store-bought or homemade, that hasn’t been baked yet.
- Unsalted Butter: Salt-free butter gives the center more depth and flavor.
- Semi-sweet chocolate: gives the pie its main chocolate flavor, and good chocolate makes it taste even better.
- Granulated sugar: makes the filling sweeter and helps the pie stay together.
- Eggs: Adding eggs makes it hard and gives it a custard-like shape.
- Vanilla Extract: It tastes better in general when you add vanilla extract.
- Salt: When you add salt to chocolate, it gets stronger and less sweet.
Equipment Needed
- Bowls for mixing
- Whisk
- Pot or bowl that can go in the microwave
- Pan for pie
- Using spoons and cups to measure
- Oven
Recipe with Steps
- Servings: 8
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Preparing the Pie Crust
Put the pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan if you have it already made. To make your own crust, roll out the dough and fit it into the pan. You can crimp the sides if you want.
Melting Chocolate and Butter
Melt ½ cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter and 3 ounces of semisweet chocolate in a bowl that can go in the microwave or over low heat. Stir the mixture until it is smooth. Let the liquid cool down a bit.
Mixing the Filling
To make the frosting, beat two big eggs, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a bit of salt in a different bowl. Whisk the ingredients together until they are well blended. Add the cold chocolate mixture slowly while stirring the mixture so that it is all the same color.
Baking the Pie
Put the filling into the pie shell that has been cut out. Before you put it in the oven, heat it to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top has a little crust. It should feel hard but a little soft in the middle.
Serving Suggestions
Keep the Chocolate Chess Pie warm or let it cool down. Put a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top of it for an extra sweet treat. When you mix the rich, gooey pie with the creamy filling, you get a delicious treat.
Tips for the Perfect Pie
Goodness Ingredients: To make the pie taste better, use pure vanilla extract and good chocolate.
Avoid Overbaking: Keep a close eye on the pie while it’s baking to make sure it doesn’t get too done, which can make it dry. When it’s done, the middle should move a little.
Cooling: Make sure the pie is fully cool before cutting it so that the slices are clean and the pie sets properly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overmixing the Filling: Only mix the ingredients together until they are well mixed. Adding too much air can lead to cracks.
Skipping Cooling Time: If you cut into the pie before it’s cool, the filling might be runny. To be patient is key.
Variations and Customizations
Nut Addition: For extra taste and texture, add chopped pecans or walnuts to the middle.
Spiced Flavor: To add a hint of warmth and depth to the filling, add a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder.
Storing and Reheating
If you have pie left over, you can keep it at room temperature for up to two days in a sealed container or in the fridge for up to five days.
Conclusion
The Angus Barn’s Chocolate Chess Pie isn’t just a dessert. it shows how simple ingredients, care, and custom can come together to make something truly amazing. Using this recipe in your home will not only give you a taste of Southern history, but it will also carry on a tradition of delicious food that goes back decades.
Tags: Angus Barn Chocolate Chess Pie