Decadent Chocolate Silk Pie

1.Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2.In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Whisk together until well mixed.

3.Add the eggs to the saucepan and whisk until smooth. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble, about 8-10 minutes.

4.Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow the chocolate mixture to cool slightly.

5.In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the cooled chocolate mixture to the butter, beating until smooth and well combined.

6.Pour the chocolate filling into the pre-baked pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours or until set.

7.In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

8.Once the pie is set, remove it from the refrigerator and top with the whipped cream, spreading it evenly over the chocolate filling.

9.Garnish with chocolate shavings or cocoa powder if desired. Slice and serve chilled.