Bayou Pie

Bayou Pie INGREDIENTS Pie Crust: 1 1/3 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup chilled vegetable shortening 2-3 tablespoons cold water Filling: 1 (18.25 oz.) package yellow cake mix 1/2 cup pecans, chopped 1/2 cup chocolate chips 1 egg 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted Topping: 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, room temperature 2 eggs 4 cups powdered sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/4 teaspoon salt Preheat oven to 325º F. Combine flour and salt in a medium bowl, then cut in vegetable shortening until mixture is coarse and crumbly. Gradually work in water, one tablespoon at a time, until dough comes together, then knead until smooth. Roll dough out on a lightly floured surface until it forms an 12-inch circle. Transfer to pie plate, then trim edges and crimp as desired. In a large bowl or mixer, beat together cake mixes with eggs, butter, pecans and chocolate chips, mixing until incorporated. Transfer mixture to pie dish and gently press into an even layer. In another large bowl, beat cream cheese for 2-3 minutes, or until smooth. Mix in eggs, then gradually mix in powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Pour cream cheese layer over cake layer, then place in oven. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until top is golden brown and center is almost fully set. Remove from oven and let cool at least 2 hours before serving.