In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt for the pie crust.
Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough just comes together. You may need to add 1 more tablespoon of water if the dough is too dry.
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface, shape it into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Once chilled, roll out the dough to fit your pie dish (about 9 inches in diameter). Carefully press it into the dish, trimming off any excess dough around the edges. You can crimp the edges or use a fork to create a decorative border.
Blind bake the crust: Place a piece of parchment paper in the pie crust and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15-20 minutes, then remove the paper and weights, and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until golden. Remove from the oven and allow to cool.
2. Make the Chocolate Filling:
In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Whisk in the milk and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture begins to thicken, about 5-7 minutes.
Once the mixture is thickened, slowly add the beaten egg yolks, stirring constantly to temper the eggs and prevent curdling. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract. Continue to stir until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Assemble the Pie:
Pour the chocolate filling into the cooled pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Let it cool to room temperature.
Once cooled, refrigerate the pie for at least 2-3 hours (or overnight) to allow the filling to set properly.
4. Add the Topping (Optional):
If you like, you can top the pie with whipped cream or meringue. For whipped cream, simply beat heavy cream with a little sugar until soft peaks form and spread it over the pie. For meringue, whip egg whites with sugar until stiff peaks form and bake until golden on top.
Garnish with chocolate shavings or a light dusting of cocoa powder for an extra touch.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the pie and enjoy the creamy, decadent chocolate filling! It’s the perfect dessert for any occasion.
