1. Prepare the Pie Crust:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• On a floured surface, roll out the basic pie dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish.
• Place the dough in the pie dish, trim the edges, and crimp the sides.
• Line the crust with parchment paper and add pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 10 minutes, remove the weights, and bake for another 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
• Let the pie crust cool completely.

2. Make the Chocolate Filling:

• In a medium saucepan, combine cocoa powder, salt, 1/2 cup of heavy cream, and chopped milk chocolate. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the chocolate is melted and smooth.
• Remove from heat and stir in sugar and vanilla extract. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
• Once cooled, fold in the marshmallow cream until well combined.

3. Whip the Remaining Cream:

• In a separate bowl, whip the remaining 1/2 cup of heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
• Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until smooth and light.

4. Assemble the Pie:

• Pour the chocolate mousse filling into the cooled pie crust, spreading it out evenly.
• Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until set and firm.

5. Garnish and Serve:

• Before serving, top the pie with chocolate curls and marshmallow bits for a festive, indulgent touch.

6. Serve:

• Serve your Valentine’s Day Hot Chocolate Ice Box Pie chilled and enjoy this decadent, no-bake treat perfect for any celebration!