Chocolate Pecan Pie

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s sure to impress, look no further than Chocolate Pecan Pie! This delightful treat combines the rich flavors of chocolate and pecans in a gooey filling nestled in a homemade crust. It’s perfect for cozy family gatherings, festive holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, or even just a sweet ending to a busy weeknight dinner. Trust me, once you try this pie, it will become a cherished part of your dessert repertoire.

What makes this Chocolate Pecan Pie so special is the balance of textures and flavors. The buttery crust is flaky and tender, while the filling is decadently sweet with a hint of nuttiness from the pecans. Whether you serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream or chilled on its own, this pie will surely bring smiles to everyone’s faces!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: This recipe comes together quickly with simple steps, making it accessible for bakers of all levels.
• Family favorite: The combination of chocolate and pecans is loved by both kids and adults alike!
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare this pie ahead of time, which is perfect for holiday gatherings or potlucks.
• Gooey goodness: The filling is irresistibly gooey and rich, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This Chocolate Pecan Pie uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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 vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add some spice: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick that complements the sweetness.
• Switch up the nuts: Use walnuts or hazelnuts instead of pecans for a different flavor profile.
• Top it off: Drizzle some caramel sauce over the top before serving for added sweetness and texture.
• Try different chocolates: Experiment with dark chocolate or milk chocolate chips depending on your preference!

How to Make Chocolate Pecan Pie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F. This step is crucial because you want your pie to bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust

Remove your pie crust from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about five minutes. This makes it easier to roll out without cracking. On a floured surface, roll out your dough into a circle about 13 inches wide. Carefully place it into your pie pan without stretching it out too much; we want that lovely flaky texture!

Step 3: Assemble Your Filling

Spread those delicious pecans and chocolate chips evenly on the bottom of your pie shell. This layering helps ensure every slice has both ingredients!

Step 4: Mix Together Liquid Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, corn syrup, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and fine sea salt until smooth. Pour this mixture over the pecans and chocolate chips in your pie shell.

Step 5: Bake Your Pie

Place your pie in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes. After that time, carefully add a pie shield to protect the crust from over-browning. Continue baking until the filling is set—this should take another 20 to 25 minutes.

Step 6: Cool Before Serving

Once baked, remove your pie from the oven and let it cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This cooling period allows the filling to set up nicely.

Step 7: Store Properly

If you have any leftovers (though I doubt there will be any!), cover them well and store in the fridge for up to two days.

Enjoy making this delicious Chocolate Pecan Pie! It’s bound to become one of your favorites too!

Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Pecan Pie

Making the perfect Chocolate Pecan Pie is a delightful journey, and with these tips, you’ll ensure every slice is as scrumptious as can be!

• Use room temperature eggs: This helps the ingredients blend together more smoothly, leading to a fluffier filling that sets beautifully.
• Don’t skip the pie shield: Covering your crust halfway through baking prevents it from browning too quickly while ensuring the filling cooks through evenly.
• Chill your pie crust: A chilled crust will hold its shape better during baking and create that wonderfully flaky texture we all love.
• Let it cool before slicing: Allowing your pie to cool for at least 30 minutes lets the filling set properly, preventing a gooey mess when you cut into it.
• Experiment with chocolate types: While semisweet chocolate chips are classic, trying dark or even milk chocolate can create unique flavor profiles that surprise your guests!

How to Serve Chocolate Pecan Pie

Serving Chocolate Pecan Pie is all about presentation and enhancing its rich flavors. Here are some ideas to make your dessert truly shine!

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of unsweetened whipped coconut cream adds a light, fluffy contrast to the rich pie without overpowering its flavors.
• Chocolate shavings: Sprinkle some dark or white chocolate shavings on top for a touch of elegance and an extra hint of chocolatey goodness.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy, cold texture of vanilla ice cream complements the warm, gooey pie perfectly, making each bite delightful.
• Fresh fruit salad: A bright mix of seasonal fruits like berries and citrus balances the richness of the pie and adds a refreshing element to your dessert table.
• Coffee or tea: Serving a cup of freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea alongside your pie enhances the overall experience and makes for a cozy finish to your meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chocolate Pecan Pie is not only a delightful treat for any occasion, but it also lends itself beautifully to meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store it, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dessert without the last-minute rush!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pie to cool completely before covering.
• Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container or cover with plastic wrap for up to 2 days.
• If you prefer, place a piece of parchment paper between the pie and the cover to keep the crust from getting soggy.

Freezing

• To freeze, ensure the pie is fully cooled and wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or use aluminum foil for extra protection.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw the pie overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Warm the pie for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. This will help revive that lovely gooey filling!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Chocolate Pecan Pie.

Can I make Chocolate Pecan Pie without bourbon?

Absolutely! The bourbon is optional in this recipe. You can simply omit it, and your pie will still be deliciously rich and chocolatey.

What makes this Chocolate Pecan Pie unique?

This recipe features a combination of semisweet chocolate chips and pecans, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures that elevates traditional pecan pie.

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

The filling should be set but slightly jiggly when you take it out of the oven. It will firm up as it cools.

Can I use dark chocolate instead of semisweet chocolate chips?

Yes! Dark chocolate will give your pie a richer flavor. Just adjust the sweetness by using slightly less sugar if desired.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Chocolate Pecan Pie! It’s not just a dessert; it’s a cozy hug on a plate, perfect for gatherings with family and friends. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving, or Christmas, this pie is sure to be a hit. Enjoy every slice and share your experience—I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out!