Chocolate Pecan Pie

If you’re looking for a dessert that brings smiles and warmth to any gathering, you’ve found it in this Chocolate Pecan Pie! This pie is a delightful combination of gooey chocolate and crunchy pecans nestled in a buttery, flaky crust. It’s a dish that has become a staple at my family’s holiday celebrations and always garners compliments. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving, or Christmas, this pie never fails to impress.

What I love most about this Chocolate Pecan Pie is how easy it is to make. The ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions with loved ones. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite in our home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Even if you’re new to baking, this recipe is straightforward and fun!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the rich chocolate flavor combined with the nutty crunch.
• Make Ahead Convenience: You can bake this pie a day in advance, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for any occasion—holiday feasts, potlucks, or just a cozy night in!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple ingredients that come together to create this mouthwatering Chocolate Pecan Pie! Each item plays an important role in crafting the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

• 1 single batch Best Ever Pie Crust
• 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 recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variations that can add your personal touch.

• Add more nuts: For extra crunch, mix in some walnuts or almonds along with the pecans.
• Make it nut-free: Substitute the pecans with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free option.
• Infuse flavors: Consider adding orange zest or almond extract for a unique twist on the classic flavor.
• Use different chocolates: Swap semisweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate or even white chocolate for different tastes!

How to Make Chocolate Pecan Pie

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures that your pie cooks evenly and achieves that perfect golden-brown crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust

Remove the pie crust from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about five minutes until it’s slightly pliable. Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a circle about 13 inches wide. It’s important to keep turning the dough as you roll it to avoid sticking—this helps achieve an even thickness throughout!

Step 3: Shape the Crust

Gently roll the dough onto your rolling pin and unroll it over a 9-inch deep dish pie pan. Carefully press it into place without stretching it too much. Trim any excess dough leaving about an inch overhang; then fold it under itself and crimp or flute the edges for an elegant finish.

Step 4: Add Filling Ingredients

Spread the pecans and chocolate chips evenly across the bottom of your prepared pie shell. This layering creates delicious pockets of flavor throughout each slice.

Step 5: Whisk Together Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, corn syrup, bourbon (if using), vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and fine sea salt. Pour this mixture over your pecans and chocolate chips. This step combines all those lovely flavors into one gooey filling!

Step 6: Bake Your Pie

Place your pie in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes. After that time, carefully place a pie shield over the crust edges to prevent burning. Continue baking until the filling is set—this should take an additional 20 to 25 minutes. Once done, let your pie cool for at least half an hour before slicing into it.

Step 7: Enjoy!

Serve warm or chilled with your favorite non-dairy whipped topping or ice cream if desired. Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to two days—if there are any leftovers!

Now you have everything you need to make this fabulous Chocolate Pecan Pie! I hope you enjoy every moment of baking this treat as much as I do!

Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Pecan Pie

Making the perfect Chocolate Pecan Pie is a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you’ll be well on your way to impressing your family and friends!

• Use room temperature eggs: Starting with eggs at room temperature helps them incorporate better into the filling, creating a smoother texture that results in a richer pie.
• Don’t skip the pie shield: Placing a pie shield or aluminum foil around the crust halfway through baking prevents it from browning too much while allowing the filling to cook through perfectly.
• Chill your dough: Keeping your pie crust dough chilled until you’re ready to roll it out ensures it remains flaky and tender. If it gets too warm, it may shrink during baking.
• Let it cool before serving: Allowing your pie to cool for at least 30 minutes after baking helps set the filling, making slicing easier and giving each piece beautiful clean edges.
• Experiment with chocolate types: While semisweet chocolate chips are classic, don’t hesitate to try dark chocolate or even a chocolate blend for different flavor profiles that can elevate your dessert.

How to Serve Chocolate Pecan Pie

Serving Chocolate Pecan Pie is just as fun as making it! Present this scrumptious dessert in ways that enhance its deliciousness and create a festive atmosphere.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a creamy texture and slight sweetness that complements the rich filling beautifully.
• Chopped pecans: Sprinkling some toasted chopped pecans on top adds a nice crunch and enhances the nutty flavors of the pie.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The classic pairing of vanilla ice cream offers a creamy contrast to the gooey filling and balances the sweetness of the pie perfectly.
• Fresh fruit salad: A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits can cleanse the palate and provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pie.
• Coffee or herbal tea: Serving a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea alongside your pie creates a cozy atmosphere and helps balance out the sweetness.

These serving suggestions will not only elevate your Chocolate Pecan Pie but also make for an inviting dessert experience at any gathering! Enjoy every heavenly bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chocolate Pecan Pie is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious slices without the last-minute rush. You can easily make it ahead of time and store it properly for future indulgence!

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Ensure the pie is completely cooled.
• Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to three months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove any plastic wrap from the pie but keep the aluminum foil on.
• Heat in the oven for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making a tasty Chocolate Pecan Pie.

Can I use a store-bought crust for my Chocolate Pecan Pie?

Absolutely! While a homemade crust is delightful, a quality store-bought crust can save time and still yield a delicious Chocolate Pecan Pie.

What makes this Chocolate Pecan Pie different from traditional recipes?

This recipe incorporates semisweet chocolate chips, adding a rich chocolate flavor that complements the pecans beautifully, creating a unique twist on a classic dessert.

Can I substitute ingredients in this Chocolate Pecan Pie recipe?

Yes! You can replace corn syrup with maple syrup or agave nectar if preferred. Adjusting sugars or using dairy-free alternatives can also work well.

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

The filling should be set but slightly jiggly in the center when you remove it from the oven. It will firm up as it cools!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this delectable Chocolate Pecan Pie! It’s more than just dessert; it’s an experience filled with warmth and sweetness that brings friends and family together. Whether it’s for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just because, may this recipe be a highlight at your table. Happy baking, and enjoy every gooey bite!