Chocolate Cream Pie With Oreo Crust

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Heat oven to 350 degrees. Add Oreos to the bowl of a food processor and process until fine crumbs form. Add melted butter and salt, and process until crumbs are evenly moistened.

2. Step 2

   Tip mixture out into a 9-inch pie plate, and press crumbs evenly into bottom and sides of pan. Bake until crust is fragrant and set, about 12 minutes. Transfer to a rack to cool.

3. Step 3

   Set a fine mesh sieve over a medium bowl. In a medium saucepan, whisk together granulated sugar, cornstarch, cocoa powder and salt. Pouring just a little at first, whisk the milk into the sugar mixture until you have a smooth paste.

4. Step 4

   Gradually add remaining milk, whisking constantly. Whisk in egg yolks. Cook mixture over medium heat, whisking constantly, until it has thickened and just come up to a low boil, about 8 to 9 minutes. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.

5. Step 5

   Pour custard through sieve, pushing it through with a rubber spatula. Discard any solids.

6. Step 6

   Stir in chocolate, butter and vanilla, and let it stand for 1 minute. Stir until smooth. Pour mixture into prepared crust. Let cool slightly, then cover loosely with plastic wrap and chill until firm, at least 6 hours.

7. Step 7

   To serve, whip cream and confectioners’ sugar until soft peaks form.

8. Step 8

   Top with whipped cream and sprinkle with crushed Oreos, if using.