Chocolate Pecan Pie

If you’re looking for a dessert that brings smiles and warmth to any gathering, then you must try this Chocolate Pecan Pie! This pie is a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the crunchy goodness of pecans. It’s an absolute crowd-pleaser at Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving, or Christmas celebrations. The gooey filling nestled in a buttery, flaky crust makes it not just delicious but also incredibly comforting—perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple and satisfying it is to make. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can whip up something truly special that everyone will adore. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into the sweet world of Chocolate Pecan Pie!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros.
• Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate and pecans creates a rich, indulgent taste that will have your guests coming back for seconds.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual gathering, this pie fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake it a day in advance to save time on the big day—just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve!
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will fall in love with every gooey bite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need anything fancy for this Chocolate Pecan Pie—just simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Pie Crust

• 1 single batch Best Ever Pie Crust

For the Filling

• 1 cup (109 grams) pecan halves
• 1 cup (170 grams) semisweet chocolate chips
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (100 grams) light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup corn syrup
• 2 tablespoons bourbon (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt

Variations

This Chocolate Pecan Pie recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily tweak it to suit your tastes or use what you have on hand.

• Add some spice: Mix in a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of flavor.
• Nutty alternative: Swap out pecans for walnuts or hazelnuts if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Chocolate overload: Use dark chocolate chips instead of semisweet for a richer taste.
• Fruit twist: Toss in some dried cherries or cranberries along with the chocolate and nuts for a fruity surprise.

How to Make Chocolate Pecan Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F. This step is essential because starting with a hot oven helps set the crust quickly and ensures it gets nice and crispy.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

Remove your pie crust from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes. Then, roll it out on a floured surface into a nice circle. Be sure to turn it as you roll to keep everything even. Once you have about a 13-inch circle that’s roughly 1/8-inch thick, it’s time to get it into your pie pan!

Step 3: Fit the Crust into Your Pan

Carefully roll your dough up onto your rolling pin and unroll it over your 9-inch deep dish pie pan. Gently press down so that there are no air bubbles beneath. Trim any excess dough around the edges, leaving about an inch overhang. Fold this under itself for a neat edge and crimp or flute as desired.

Step 4: Layer Your Fillings

Spread those pecan halves and chocolate chips evenly across the bottom of your prepared pie shell. This layering adds texture and flavor throughout each slice.

Step 5: Whisk Together the Filling

In a large bowl, whisk together your eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, corn syrup (this gives sweetness), bourbon (if using), vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and sea salt. Pour this luscious mixture over the pecans and chocolate chips in the pie shell.

Step 6: Bake It Up!

Bake your pie in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes first. Then carefully cover the crust with a pie shield or some foil to prevent over-browning. Continue baking until the filling is set—this should take another 20 to 25 minutes. Once it’s done, remove it from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for about half an hour before slicing.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

Slice into your beautiful Chocolate Pecan Pie and watch as everyone digs in! You can store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to two days—if there are any leftovers!

Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Pecan Pie

Baking the perfect Chocolate Pecan Pie is all about attention to detail and a sprinkle of love! Here are some pro tips to help you achieve pie perfection.

• Use room temperature eggs: Eggs at room temperature mix more easily into the filling, ensuring a smoother texture and better incorporation of ingredients.
• Don’t skip the pie shield: Protecting the crust with a pie shield during baking helps prevent it from over-browning while allowing the filling to set just right.
• Let it cool completely: Allowing your pie to cool for at least 30 minutes helps the filling firm up, making it easier to slice and serve without falling apart.
• Experiment with chocolate types: While semisweet chocolate chips are delicious, try using milk chocolate or even dark chocolate for a unique twist on flavor.

How to Serve Chocolate Pecan Pie

Serving your Chocolate Pecan Pie can be just as delightful as baking it! Here are some creative ideas to make your presentation shine.

Garnishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a luscious, dairy-free touch that complements the richness of your pie beautifully.
• Chopped Pecans: Scatter some toasted chopped pecans on top for an extra crunch and visual appeal, enhancing both taste and texture.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the rich chocolate and nutty flavors of the pie, creating a delightful contrast.
• Fresh Berries: A side of fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, adds a refreshing acidity that balances the sweetness of the pie beautifully.
• Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: A warm drizzle of chocolate sauce over each slice can take indulgence to another level, making every bite heavenly.
• Coffee or Herbal Tea: Serving your pie alongside a cup of coffee or herbal tea creates a lovely end to any meal, enhancing the experience with warmth and comfort.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, you’re all set to create an unforgettable Chocolate Pecan Pie experience for you and your loved ones! Enjoy every sweet moment.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chocolate Pecan Pie is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delightful bites of gooey chocolate and crunchy pecans without the last-minute rush. Here’s how you can store it and keep it delicious!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pie to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices or the whole pie tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped pie or slices inside a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to three months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw the pie in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover with foil and reheat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

If you’re wondering about some specifics regarding this Chocolate Pecan Pie recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common questions:

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans for Chocolate Pecan Pie?

While pecans are classic, you can experiment with walnuts or almonds. Just be aware that it will change the flavor profile slightly!

What makes this Chocolate Pecan Pie special?

This pie blends a rich chocolate filling with crunchy pecans, creating a unique dessert experience perfect for any gathering. It’s a crowd-pleaser!

How do I know when my Chocolate Pecan Pie is done?

The filling should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center. It will firm up as it cools, making for that perfect gooey texture.

Can I make Chocolate Pecan Pie without corn syrup?

Yes! You can substitute corn syrup with maple syrup or agave nectar for a different but delightful flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Chocolate Pecan Pie brings warmth and joy to your table during the holidays or any special occasion. Its rich, chocolatey goodness paired with crunchy pecans makes it truly unforgettable! Enjoy making this lovely dessert—you might just find it becomes a new family favorite. Happy baking!