Old-Fashioned Grasshopper Pie

• 1 (9 in) baked chocolate-cookie crumb crust

• 1 envelope unflavored gelatin
• 1/2 cold water
• 1/3 cup plus 3 tbsp. sugar
• 3 large eggs, separated
• 1/3 cup creme de menthe (green or white, your call)
• 2 tbsp. creme de cacao (optional)
• 1/2 cup chilled heavy cream

• Optional
• More whipped cream
• Chocolate curls or mint leaves for garnish

Directions

1. In a saucepan, sprinkle gelatin over water; let stand for 3 minutes. Stir in 1/3 cup of sugar and egg yolks. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly just until thickened. Do not boil. 
2. Stir in creme de menthe and creme de cacao until blended. Chill until mixture is very thick but not set, 30 minutes. The best way to do this to guarantee a smooth pie is to set the mix bowl on ice inside a bigger mixing bowl and sir until thicker.
3. Beat egg whites at high speed until foamy. Gradually beat in remaining 3 tbls sugar until stiff, but not dry, peaks form.
4. Beat cream at medium speed until soft peaks form.
5. Fold beaten egg whites then whipped cream into gelatin mixture. Fold in food coloring if using while creme de menthe, but seeking a green pie. 
6. Pour mixture into crust. Chill until set, at least 3 hours.
7. Garnish pie with whipped cream and shaved chocolate pieces.