Microwave Chocolate Pie

1 (9 inch) pie shell, baked

¾ cup white sugar

¼ cup cornstarch

⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

¼ teaspoon salt

2 cups milk

3 egg yolks, beaten

2 tablespoons butter, softened

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3 egg whites, beaten

¼ teaspoon cream of tartar

6 tablespoons white sugar

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).

In 1 1/2 quart casserole dish, mix together sugar, cornstarch, cocoa, salt and 1/2 cup of milk until smooth. Once it is mixed well, stir in remaining milk. Microwave on high for 5 to 8 minutes or until thick; stir halfway through cooking.

In a small bowl, place a small amount of the hot mixture and beat together with egg yolks. Stir back into original mixture in casserole dish. Microwave on high for 1 1/2 to 2 minutes or until thickened; stir frequently. Blend in butter and the 1 teaspoon of vanilla. Pour mixture into pastry shell.

To Make Meringue: In a small bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until foamy. Gradually stir in 2 tablespoons of sugar at a time until stiff peaks form; stir in vanilla. Spread meringue over top of pie filling.

Seal rim of pie with aluminum foil, then bake in preheated oven for about 8 minutes or just until meringue gets browned.