Welcome, dessert lovers! Today, we’re excited to share the Angus Barn Chocolate Chess Pie. This treasured Southern dessert from the Angus Barn in Raleigh, North Carolina, has been a secret for years. Now, you can make it at home and savor its chocolatey magic.
What in the World is an Angus Barn Chocolate Chess Pie Recipe?
The Angus Barn is a renowned spot in the Raleigh-Durham area, impressing diners with great food and service since 1960. Their Chocolate Chess Pie has become a must-try, thanks to its rich taste and creamy texture.
If you’re a fan of the Angus Barn or new to chess pies, this recipe is for you. It’s sure to become a favorite in your home for its luscious chocolate flavor.
Key Takeaways
- The Angus Barn Chocolate Chess Pie is a decadent Southern classic.
- The recipe for this fudgy and irresistible pie has been a closely guarded secret for decades.
- The Angus Barn, a beloved institution in the Raleigh-Durham area, has been serving exceptional cuisine and hospitality since 1960.
- This recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves rich, chocolatey desserts and wants to experience a true taste of the South.
Angus Barn Chocolate Chess Pie: A Decadent Southern Delight
This rich dessert is famous at the Angus Barn in Raleigh, North Carolina. Known for its fudgy texture and mouthwatering taste, it’s a must-have for anyone visiting the Angus Barn.
History
In 1960, Winston Brenneman started the Angus Barn. Since then, this sinfully delicious dessert has been a highlight. Thanks to a secret recipe, it remains a symbol of the restaurant’s exceptional food.
Why It Stands Out
The Angus Barn Chocolate Chess Pie stands out for its rich, fudgy taste. It combines semi-sweet chocolate and butter perfectly with the sweetness of a chess pie. The flaky, buttery pie crust provides a great base. Add some vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to elevate the experience.
Unveiling the Secrets of a Legendary Dessert
History of Chess Pies
Chess pies are beloved in the South for their dense, fudgy insides and sweet taste. They’ve been a favorite in family cookbooks and among dessert lovers for years. The Angus Barn Chocolate Chess Pie is a top choice on their menu.
Angus Barn’s Iconic Chocolate Chess Pie
The legend of the Chocolate Chess Pie at Angus Barn began when Winston Bridgers and Betty Shugart opened the restaurant in the 1960s. They included a special dessert to make their restaurant unforgettable. This pie, with its perfect mix of chocolate, butter, sugar, and eggs, quickly won over customers and became a Raleigh favorite.
Ingredients for Indulgence
Butter and Chocolate
The key to the pie’s special feel is in the melted butter and chocolate. These blend to make a smooth base for the pie. Butter adds creaminess, and chocolate provides an indulgent taste.
Eggs and Sugar
Eggs and sugar add structure and richness to the pie. Eggs make the filling custardy, and sugar brings sweetness, balancing the chocolate’s strong flavor. The right mix of sugar and eggs ensures an amazing taste and texture.
Step-by-Step Guide to Chocolate Chess Pie At Home!
Preparing the Pie Crust
Start with the pie crust. You can use a frozen one or make your own. For a homemade crust, roll out the dough and move it to a 9-inch pie plate, shaping the edges nicely.
Melting the Chocolate and Butter
Take a saucepan and put in the semi-sweet chocolate and butter. Melt them over low heat, stirring until smooth. Let this mix cool slightly before the next step.
Mixing the Batter
In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar well. Add the melted chocolate and butter, and keep whisking until smooth. Pour the batter into the crust and level the top.
Baking to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the chocolate chess pie for 35-45 minutes. The center should be lightly set, with the top cracked. Watch closely in the last 10 minutes to avoid overbaking. Once baked, cool the pie completely on a rack before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Vanilla Ice Cream
A scoop of cool, smooth vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with this pie. The cold ice cream and warm pie create a delightful mix.
Whipped Cream
For a lighter option, try some whipped cream with the pie. The light cream balances well with the pie’s dense filling.
Variations and Customizations
Adding Nuts or Spices
Consider mixing in chopped pecans or walnuts. A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can also enhance the flavors and textures of the pie.
Experimenting with Different Chocolate Types
Try using different chocolate options, such as milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even bittersweet chocolate for a richer taste.
Tips and Tricks for a Perfect Pie
Preventing Cracks and Overbaking
To avoid cracks, don’t overbake the pie. When the center is set but still slightly jiggles, it’s time to take it out. Watch your oven’s temperature and adjust if necessary.
Achieving the Ideal Texture
The hero of the Angus Barn’s Chocolate Chess Pie is its texture. Melt the butter and chocolate gently and mix the eggs and sugar well for a batter that bakes to perfection. Let the pie cool completely before cutting for the best results.
Possible The Best Chocolate Chess Pie Recipe You’ve Ever Had
Equipment
- Double boiler or medium saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Pie pan
Ingredients
- 1 unbaked pie shell
- 1 stick of butter 4 tablespoons
- 3 ounces semi-sweet chocolate baking squares
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 dash salt
- Whipped cream optional, for serving
- Chocolate shavings optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Melt Butter and Chocolate: In a double boiler or medium saucepan, melt the butter and chocolate together over medium heat, stirring often until smooth.
- Mix Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the melted chocolate mixture to the egg mixture, stirring continuously to combine.
- Prepare Pie Crust: Place the unbaked pie shell into a pie pan.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the chocolate filling into the prepared pie crust. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is set and forms a slight crust. The center should still have a slight jiggle.
- Cool: Allow the pie to cool completely before serving. This will help it set properly.
- Serve: Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings if desired.
Notes
- For best results, let the pie cool completely before cutting to ensure clean slices.
- The pie can be stored in the refrigerator, covered, for up to one week.
- For longer storage, wrap it in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to three months.
- To reheat, defrost in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a 250°F oven for 20-30 minutes.
We hope you enjoy making and eating this sinfully delicious dessert. The Angus Barn Chocolate Chess Pie is a slice of heaven you can enjoy at home. Happy baking!
