Amazing Chocolate Pecan Pie

SugarJen's Note:

This pie is amazing because it's so quick and simple, but it always turns out professional looking and delicious! It's a holiday staple at our house, especially for those who don't like pumpkin pie.

• Total Time: 1 hrs
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 45 mins

Ingredients:

Serves: 8-10

Yield: 1.0 pie

• 1 frozen deep dish pie shell (unbaked)
• ½ cup hot water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups whole pecans
• 2 ounces unsweetened chocolate squares
• 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• ¼ cup butter
• 2 eggs , well beaten
• 1⁄8; teaspoon salt

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350.
2. In a large pan melt chocolate and butter over low heat until completely melted, stirring to prevent scortching.
3. Stir in sweetened condensed milk, hot water, vanilla and beaten eggs. Continue to mix the ingredients over low heat until you have a uniform consistency.
4. Stir in pecans and salt.
5. Pour mixture into unbaked pie shell.
6. Bake 40-45 minutes until center is set.
7. Cool completely.
8. Serve with whipped cream if desired.