Chocolate Velvet Pie

Submitted by Catherine Stark

Ingredients:

1 3/4 cups (11.5 oz. pkg.) milk chocolate chocolate chips

1 pkg. (8oz.) cream cheese, softened

1 tsp. vanilla

1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped

Enough sweetened whipped cream to liberally cover the top of pie

1 prepared 8-inch (6oz.) chocolate crumb crust

Directions:

Microwave morsels in medium, uncovered, microwave safe bowl on medium-high (70%) power for 1 minute. Stir. Chocolate chips may retain some of their original shape. If necessary, microwave at additional 10-15 second intervals, stirring just until smooth. Cool to room temperature.

Beat melted chocolate, cream cheese, and vanilla extract in large mixer bowl until light in color. Fold in whipped cream. Spoon into crust. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm. Top with sweetened whipped cream. If desired, decorate with chocolate curls and/or nuts.

Baker's Note: Though the recipe calls for milk chocolate chocolate chips, one can use any kind of chocolate according to their own personal preference.