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### Instructions:
1. **Preheat the oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you’re using a pre-made pie crust, place it in the oven and bake for 10 minutes to set it. If you’re making your own crust, follow the instructions for blind baking. After baking, set the crust aside to cool.
2. **Make the chocolate filling**: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. Place the pan over medium heat and cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and starts to boil. This will take about 5-7 minutes. Once it begins to bubble, continue to whisk for another 1-2 minutes to ensure the filling is smooth and thick.
3. **Temper the egg yolks**: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks lightly. Gradually add a small amount of the hot chocolate mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from scrambling. Once the yolks are tempered, slowly pour them back into the saucepan with the rest of the chocolate mixture, whisking constantly. Continue to cook for another 2 minutes, until the filling thickens further.
4. **Finish the filling**: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract. Add the semi-sweet chocolate chips and stir until they melt completely into the filling, giving it a smooth and glossy texture.
5. **Fill the pie crust**: Pour the finished chocolate filling into the pre-baked pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Set the pie aside while you prepare the meringue.
6. **Make the meringue**: In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites with a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form. Add the cream of tartar and continue to beat until stiff peaks form. Gradually add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat the meringue until it becomes glossy and holds firm peaks. Stir in the vanilla extract.
7. **Top the pie with meringue**: Spoon the meringue over the chocolate filling, spreading it all the way to the edges to seal it completely. This helps prevent the meringue from shrinking during baking.
8. **Bake the pie**: Place the pie in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown and firm to the touch. Keep an eye on it, as meringue can go from golden to overdone quickly!
9. **Cool and serve**: Allow the pie to cool for at least 1-2 hours before slicing. This helps the filling set properly and makes it easier to cut clean slices. Serve chilled or at room temperature for the perfect treat.
### Tips:
– **Make-Ahead Option**: You can make the chocolate filling and meringue ahead of time. Refrigerate the filling and store the meringue separately until you’re ready to assemble and bake the pie.
– **Crust Options**: If you prefer a graham cracker crust, it pairs beautifully with the chocolate filling and is easy to make. Simply crush graham crackers, mix them with melted butter and sugar, then press them into a pie pan and bake at 350°F for 10 minutes before filling.
– **Meringue Perfection**: Ensure your mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and dry before making the meringue. Any grease or moisture can prevent the egg whites from whipping properly.
### Variations:
– **Chocolate and Peanut Butter**: Add 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter to the chocolate filling for a delicious twist.
– **Fruit-Filled Meringue Pie**: Swap the chocolate filling for lemon or lime curd for a tangy and light variation, and top with the same meringue.
– **Hazelnut Twist**: Stir in 1/2 cup of finely ground toasted hazelnuts into the meringue for an added layer of flavor and crunch.
### Serving Suggestions:
This **Heavenly Chocolate Meringue Pie** is a showstopper on its own, but you can serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra decadence. Pair it with a cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine for a perfectly rounded meal.
### Conclusion:
The **Heavenly Chocolate Meringue Pie** is the ultimate combination of rich chocolate and fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth meringue. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, this dessert is sure to become a family favorite. Easy to make, with its indulgent flavors and elegant presentation, this pie is bound to impress and delight everyone at your table.
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