This is a variation of a classic pecan pie recipe with the addition of chocolate. It's a bit hedonistic. It is very easy to assemble, but it takes 45 to 50 minutes to bake.

　　

Ingredients

Makes 8 servings

　　4 ounces semisweet chocolate

　　1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust made fromBasic Pie Pastry

　　3 large eggs, lightly beaten

　　1 cup light corn syrup

　　1 cup sugar

　　2 tablespoons (1/4 stick) butter, melted and allowed to cool

　　1 teaspoon vanilla

　　2 cups broken walnuts

　　

Garnish (optional)

Whipped cream

　　

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350°F.

　　

Step 2

Melt the chocolate in the microwave or in a heavy pot on low heat. Pour it evenly into the unbaked pie shell.

　　

Step 3

In a large bowl, mix the eggs, corn syrup, sugar, butter, and vanilla well. Stir in the walnuts. Pour the mixture into the chocolate-lined pie shell and bake until the filling is set, 45 to 50 minutes. Remove to a rack and let cool.

　　

Step 4

The pie may be made ahead several days, or frozen for up to 3 months. Serve with whipped cream if desired.

　　Reprinted with permission from Nathalie Dupree's Comfortable Entertaining by Nathalie Dupree. © 1998 Viking