Chocolate Cream Pie

Craving a decadent and creamy dessert that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight? Look no further than this irresistible Chocolate Cream Pie recipe that combines the richness of chocolate with a silky smooth filling. Perfect for any occasion, from cozy evenings at home to special gatherings with friends and family, this indulgent treat is sure to be a hit with everyone who takes a bite.

### Chocolate Cream Pie

**Ingredients:**
– 1 9-inch pre-baked pie crust
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/3 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 1/2 cups whole milk
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Whipped cream, for topping
– Chocolate shavings, for garnish

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Pie Crust:** Start by pre-baking your pie crust according to the package instructions, allowing it to cool completely before filling.

2. **Melt the Chocolate:** In a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt the chocolate chips until smooth and velvety. Set aside to cool slightly.

3. **Make the Filling:** In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a simmer.

4. **Temper the Eggs:** In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly pour a small amount of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly. This helps prevent the eggs from scrambling when added to the hot mixture.

5. **Combine the Mixtures:** Gradually pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture, stirring constantly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the custard thickens.

6. **Add the Chocolate:** Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the melted chocolate and vanilla extract until well combined.

7. **Assemble the Pie:** Pour the chocolate filling into the prepared pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Cover the pie with plastic wrap, ensuring it touches the surface of the filling to prevent a skin from forming. Chill the pie in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or until set.

8. **Serve and Enjoy:** Before serving, top the pie with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings for an elegant touch. Slice and savor every creamy, chocolatey bite of this luscious dessert.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a delightful sweet escape, this Chocolate Cream Pie is the perfect way to indulge in a moment of pure bliss. With its rich filling and buttery crust, this recipe is a true showstopper that will impress your guests and have everyone asking for seconds. So, go ahead and whip up this heavenly treat to elevate any gathering or simply make an ordinary day extraordinary.