French Silk Pie

Directions

1. 1
   In a heavy 2-quart saucepan combine the 1 cup (225 ml) whipping cream, chocolate pieces, butter, and sugar.
2. 2
   Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until chocolate is melted--this should take about 10 minutes.
3. 3
   Remove saucepan from heat.
4. 4
   Gradually stir about half of the hot mixture into the beaten egg yolks.
5. 5
   Return egg mixture to saucepan.
6. 6
   Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until mixture is slightly thickened and nearly bubbly--this should take 3 to 5 minutes.
7. 7
   Remove saucepan from heat (Mixture may appear to separate).
8. 8
   Stir in creme de cacao or whipping cream.
9. 9
   Place saucepan in a bowl of ice water; stir occasionally until mixture stiffens and becomes hard to stir (20 minutes).
10. 10
    Transfer chocolate mixture to a medium mixing bowl.
11. 11
    Beat the cooled chocolate mixture with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 2 to 3 minutes or until light and fluffy.
12. 12
    Spread filling in a baked pastry shell.
13. 13
    Cover and chill pie about 5 hours or until set, or for up to 24 hours.
14. 14
    At serving time, top each serving with whipped cream and sprinkle with chocolate curls or pieces, if desired.