• You'll need to make a prepare one, fully-baked pie shell for this recipe. Crumb crusts like graham cracker crust also work for this recipe.

Make the Homemade Chocolate Pudding

• In a medium pot over medium heat, combine the milk and cream. Heat until steaming and just below a boil.
• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, cocoa powder, and salt until fully combined.
• Add the egg and whisk lightly to break it up. The dries will not all be mixed together with the egg yet at this stage.
  
• Very slowly pour the hot milk and cream into the bowl while whisking constantly and vigorously to temper the egg and prevent curdling.
  
• When all of the liquid has been added, pour the entire mixture back into the saucepan.
• Place the saucepan over low heat and whisk continuously until the pudding thickens and begins to bubble.
• Once the mixture begins to boil, continue whisking vigorously for 30 to 60 seconds to fully activate the cornstarch.
• Remove from heat and immediately strain the pudding through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean mixing bowl to remove any lumps or bits of cooked egg.
• Add the chopped chocolate and butter to the hot pudding. Whisk until both have melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
• Pour the warm pudding into your prepared, fully baked pie shell, spreading it evenly.
• Press a piece of plastic wrap directly against the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming.
  
• Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or until the filling is fully set and completely cool before topping with whipped cream.

Make the Fresh Whipped Cream

• In a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, add the cold heavy cream, sifted powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
• Whip on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form and the cream holds its shape. Avoid overwhipping.
• Spread the whipped cream evenly over the chilled chocolate pudding layer using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon. (Or, for a decorative finish, transfer the whipped cream to a piping bag and pipe rosettes or swirls across the top of the pie.)
• Serve as is, or add toppings for extra flavor and texture. Try chocolate shavings, crushed peppermint candies, colorful sprinkles, or a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce—or mix and match your favorites.