Chocolate Silk Pie

I made this as going away treat for a co worker.  This is his favorite dessert.  I have never made this before...imagine that!!!  I must say it came out really good and was a HUGE it not only with him but the entire staff.  I will make this again I'm sure.  Would be a great addition to the Thanksgiving dessert list. 

I

1 Ready pie crust, baked and cooled.  (I use Pillsbury)

 filling

2 sticks (1 cup) unsalted butter, room temperature

1 & 1/2 cups granulated sugar

4 ounces unsweetened chocolate, melted and cooled slightly 

2 tsp vanilla extract

2 TBSP cocoa powder (optional, but intensifies the chocolate flavor and color)(Did use this)

1/4 tsp instant espresso powder (optional, but intensifies the chocolate flavor)(I didn't use this)

4 large eggs

whipped cream for topping

chocolate shavings or curls

Instructions

for the crust
1. Preheat oven to 450ºF.  Follow directions on box
2. Gently roll out the crust and place it in a pie plate. Crimp edges as desired. Dock the dough by piercing with a fork several times around the bottom and sides.
3. Lay parchment paper into the crust and fill with dried beans, rice, or pie weights.
4. Bake in the bottom third of the oven for 15 minutes. Remove the pie weights and place back in the oven for 10 more minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
5. Allow to cool completely on a wire rack before filling.
for the filling
6. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
7. With the mixer still running, pour the cooled melted chocolate into the butter/sugar mixture. Add the vanilla, cocoa powder, and espresso powder if using. Scrape down the bowl.
8. Add eggs one at a time, beating for 5 full minutes in between each addition
9. (20 minutes total) at a medium-high speed. The full mixing time of 5 minutes for EACH egg is necessary to get the silky texture and for the pie to set.
10. Pour the filling into the cooled crust and allow to set in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours and up to 2 days before serving.
11. Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings or curls.

Thanks for stopping by, have a great week and Always Remember to Find the Time to Do all the Things You L♥ve.

Donna