If you adore classic Southern desserts with a delightful twist, you are going to fall head over heels for this Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Recipe. Combining the rich, gooey sweetness of pecan pie with luscious semi-sweet chocolate chips, this pie feels like a warm hug on a plate. The buttery crust, toasted pecans, and that incredible chocolate surprise inside make every bite so memorable. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because you deserve something marvelous, this recipe offers that perfect balance of flavors and textures that everyone will ask for seconds of.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Recipe lies in its simplicity and quality ingredients. Each item on the list plays a crucial role, from the crunchy pecans that add a satisfying texture to the silky melted butter that creates a luscious filling.
- Pie crust: Use a pre-made or homemade 9-inch crust for a buttery, flaky base that holds all the delicious filling perfectly.
- Pecans (1 1/2 cups): Toast these to bring out their natural nuttiness, which adds depth to the pie’s flavor.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup): The star that adds that irresistible chocolate touch, balancing the sweetness beautifully.
- Brown sugar (1 cup): Adds rich caramel notes and sweetness essential for that classic pecan pie flavor.
- Corn syrup (3/4 cup): Helps to thicken the filling and gives it that shiny, perfect texture.
- Large eggs (3): Bind everything together and contribute to the pie’s slightly custardy consistency.
- Unsalted butter, melted (1/4 cup): Adds silkiness and rich flavor to the filling.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the other flavors with a warm, fragrant note.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and brings out the pie’s depth of flavor.
How to Make Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pie Crust
Start by rolling out your pie crust and fitting it gently into a 9-inch pie dish. Make sure to crimp the edges nicely to create that classic pie look. Pop it into the refrigerator while you prep the filling—this chilling step helps prevent shrinking while baking.
Step 2: Toast the Pecans
Spread your pecans on a baking sheet and toast them at 350°F (175°C) for about 6 to 8 minutes until they smell toasty and fragrant. Toasting raises their flavor game, giving the pie that signature nutty punch. Let them cool slightly before moving on.
Step 3: Whisk Together the Filling Base
In a large bowl, whisk the brown sugar, corn syrup, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt together until the mixture is smooth and glossy. This blend is the sweet, gooey heart of your pie, so take a moment to get it just right.
Step 4: Incorporate Pecans and Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in your toasted pecans and chocolate chips, making sure they are evenly distributed. This step ensures every slice has a perfect balance of crunchy nuts and melty chocolate goodness.
Step 5: Assemble the Pie
Pour your decadent filling into the chilled pie crust, spreading it out evenly so it bakes uniformly. The contrasting textures and colors already start to shine at this stage.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake your pie at 350°F (175°C) for 50 to 60 minutes. You want the center to be just set with a slight jiggle, not fully firm, to maintain that luscious, custard-like consistency once cooled.
Step 7: Cool and Chill
Let your pie cool completely on a wire rack, then chill it in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This resting time finishes the setting process so you get perfect, clean slices and that signature slice-and-serve moment everyone loves.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence. This step turns a simple slice into an unforgettable dessert experience.
How to Serve Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a few extra toasted pecans on top or dust with a light coating of powdered sugar for an elegant look. Fresh whipped cream adds creaminess and balances the sweetness, making your pie look as stunning as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs beautifully with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. For an extra festive touch, serve with fresh berries or a cup of rich coffee or spiced tea that complements those deep flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider slicing the pie into bite-sized squares and serving on dessert trays at parties or drizzling chocolate sauce over individual slices for added flair. A pie presented with a rustic wooden board and fresh pecans scattered around adds a charming, inviting feel.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Recipe tightly covered in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days, allowing you to enjoy those irresistible flavors even after the initial serving.
Freezing
You can freeze this pie either whole or in slices by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in an airtight container. It freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge to preserve its texture and flavor.
Reheating
To bring your pie back to life, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or heat the whole pie in a low oven (about 300°F/150°C) for 10 to 15 minutes. This makes every bite feel freshly baked again.
FAQs
Can I use a store-bought pie crust for the Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Recipe?
Absolutely! A good-quality store-bought crust works perfectly and saves time. Just be sure to chill it before adding the filling for the best texture.
What type of chocolate works best in this pie?
Semi-sweet chocolate chips are ideal because they balance the sweetness of the pie with a touch of rich chocolate flavor. You can also experiment with dark chocolate for a deeper taste.
Why should I toast the pecans before adding them?
Toasting pecans intensifies their natural flavor and adds a pleasant crunch, making your Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Recipe far more aromatic and delicious.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes! It’s a perfect make-ahead dessert. Bake it a day in advance and chill overnight — this rest allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Is there a substitute for corn syrup?
You can use light maple syrup or honey as a natural alternative, but note that it may slightly change the pie’s texture and sweetness level.
Final Thoughts
There is something so comforting and celebratory about a slice of Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Recipe. It’s a wonderful blend of traditions with a chocolaty upgrade, and once you try it, it will be your go-to pie for potlucks, holidays, or any time you want to treat yourself. Don’t hesitate—bake this soon and watch it become a lasting favorite in your baking repertoire!
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Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 to 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie combines the richness of semi-sweet chocolate chips with the buttery crunch of toasted pecans in a classic flaky pie crust. Sweetened with brown sugar and corn syrup, and infused with vanilla extract, this pie is a decadent twist on the traditional pecan pie that’s perfect for holidays and special occasions.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 pie crust
Filling
- 1 1/2 cups pecans
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 3/4 cup corn syrup
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Pie Crust: Roll out the pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Crimp the edges for a decorative finish, then refrigerate to keep the crust firm while you prepare the filling.
- Toast the Pecans: Spread pecans on a baking sheet and toast them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 6–8 minutes until fragrant. Remove and let cool slightly to enhance their flavor and texture.
- Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, corn syrup, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined, forming the base of the pie filling.
- Add Pecans and Chocolate: Gently fold the toasted pecans and semi-sweet chocolate chips into the filling mixture, ensuring even distribution throughout the filling.
- Fill the Pie Crust: Pour the prepared filling into the chilled pie crust, spreading it evenly to avoid any lumps or uneven baking.
- Bake the Pie: Place the filled pie in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 50–60 minutes until the center is just set, indicating the filling has fully cooked but remains moist.
- Cool and Chill: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Then refrigerate it for at least 1 hour to firm up and develop the flavors for better slicing.
- Serve: Slice the pie and serve it with optional whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
Notes
- To prevent the crust from over-browning, you can cover the edges with foil or a pie crust shield halfway through baking.
- Make sure the eggs are at room temperature for a smoother filling texture.
- For a nut-free version, omit pecans and increase chocolate chips or add chopped fruits.
- Store leftover pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
