Brownie Pie à la Mode

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine sugar, butter, and water in a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips until melted and smooth. Let cool for 1-2 minutes.

Beat the eggs in a large bowl, then slowly pour the chocolate mixture into the eggs while stirring constantly to avoid cooking the eggs.

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Fold the dry ingredients into the chocolate-egg mixture until just combined.

Stir in vanilla extract and chopped nuts if using. Pour the batter into an ungreased 9-inch pie pan, spreading it evenly.

Bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with moist crumbs (the center should still be slightly fudgy).

Remove the brownie pie from the oven and allow it to cool for 5 minutes at room temperature.

Divide the warm brownie pie into 4 portions and transfer each to a serving bowl or plate. Top each portion with a scoop of ice cream and serve immediately.