Step 1

FOR CHOCOLATE PIE FILLING:Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Step 2

Mix all dry ingredients (cocoa, flour, and sugar) together in a boiler. Stir to blend well.

Step 3

Add slightly beaten egg yolks into the dry ingredients. Slowly add the milk a bit at a time until well blended, Over LOW heat, cook stirring CONSTANTLY until thickened (about 5 minutes.) Remove from heat.

Step 4

Add vanilla and butter and stir to blend well. Pour into a baked 9 inch pie crust.

Step 5

TO PREPARE THE MERINGUE:Put the 3 egg whites in a small deep bowl. (I use a chilled aluminum bowl.) Beat on high until medium soft peaks begin to form.

Step 6

Slowly add the sugar and beat until the egg whites are glossy and holds firm, stiff peaks.

Step 7

Spoon over the chocolate mixture in the pie crust, pulling the meringue into peaks. Bake in a preheated oven until lightly browned.

Step 8

Allow to cool, then refrigerate until ready to serve.