Black Bottom Pecan Pie

To Make the Black Bottom

1. Preheat to 350 degrees F.
2. Add the chocolate to a small bowl. In a small saucepan, add the heavy cream and heat until very hot to the touch (about 130 degrees F). Immediately pour the heavy cream on top of the chocolate and allow to stand for 2 to 3 minutes. Then, whisk the chocolate and cream together until very smooth. Set aside.
3. Remove the pie crust from the fridge and allow to stand on the counter for about 10 minutes. I always find this helps with rolling it out. Begin to roll the dough, being sure to rotate it every so often to avoid sticking, to a 13-inch round. Wrap the dough around the rolling pin and unroll it over a 9-inch pie dish. Gently fit the dough into the bottom and up the sides of the pie dish. Trim the dough around the pie tin, leaving a 1 1/2-inch overhang (this is important is you want a nice crimp). Tuck the overhang under itself all the way around. Rest your right thumb on the edge of the pie crust and using your left hand, shape a v. Push the two together, creating a large crimp. Work your way around the entire pie curst until you’re done.
4. Pour the melted chocolate into the pie crust and smooth it out with the back of a spoon to create an even layer. Transfer the pie crust to the freezer to chill for 15 to 20 minutes.

To Make the Filling and To Bake:

1. Meanwhile, in a saucepan, set over medium heat, add the brown sugar and cubes of butter. Heat until the butter has melted. Give it a good stir and then turn the heat off. Mix in the brown rice syrup, vanilla extract, salt and eggs. Mix until smooth.
2. Remove the pie crust from the freezer and add the pecans to the pie shell. Pour the filling into the pie crust and transfer to a baking sheet. Brush the edges of the pie crust with egg wash and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, until the center has set (it may rise slightly and be slightly jiggly). Be sure to check on it periodically throughout the baking process—if at any time the crust get too brown, you can place a piece of foil over it to stop the browning.
3. Chill on the counter for about 2 hours before slicing. This will set the pie and is necessary in order to get nice slices! Serve with whipped cream and/or ice cream.