Chocolate Pecan Pie

If you’re looking for the perfect dessert to impress your family and friends, look no further than this decadent Chocolate Pecan Pie. This recipe is a cherished favorite of mine, combining gooey chocolate with crunchy pecans for a mouthwatering treat. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving, or Christmas, this pie steals the show and warms hearts around the table.

What makes this Chocolate Pecan Pie so special? It’s not just the rich flavors; it’s also about the memories made while baking it together with loved ones. This pie is ideal for festive gatherings or even just a cozy night in. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why it has a special place in my heart.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and ingredients, you’ll be enjoying this pie in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love digging into this delightful dessert!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual get-together, this pie fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake it a day early and let the flavors meld together for an even richer taste.
• Irresistibly Delicious Flavor: The combination of chocolate and pecans creates a dessert that’s hard to resist!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delicious Chocolate Pecan Pie, you’ll need some 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 quite flexible! Here are some fun variations to make it your own:

• Add More Nuts: Toss in some walnuts or hazelnuts for an extra crunch.
• Use Dark Chocolate: Swap semisweet chips for dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
• Try Different Sweeteners: Experiment with maple syrup instead of corn syrup for a unique twist.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pie crust to enjoy this dessert without worry!

How to Make Chocolate Pecan Pie

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Preheating ensures that your pie bakes evenly from the start, giving you that perfect golden crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust

Take your pie crust out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes until it’s slightly pliable. Roll it out on a floured surface into a 13-inch circle that’s about 1/8-inch thick. This thickness gives you a lovely flaky texture!

Step 3: Fit the Crust into the Pan

Gently roll the dough onto your rolling pin and then unroll it over a 9-inch deep dish pie pan. Press it gently into place without stretching. Trim any excess dough to leave about a 1-inch overhang, which can be folded under and crimped or fluted—this adds such a nice touch!

Step 4: Add Pecans and Chocolate Chips

Spread those beautiful pecan halves and chocolate chips evenly on the bottom of your prepared pie shell. This layering allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together as they bake.

Step 5: Make the Filling Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, corn syrup, optional bourbon, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and fine sea salt. Pour this luscious mixture over your pecans and chocolate chips.

Step 6: Bake Your Pie

Bake your pie 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. The goal is that perfect gooey center!

Step 7: Let It Cool

Once done baking, remove from the oven and let cool for about 30 minutes before slicing and serving. Cooling helps the filling set nicely!

Now that you know how to create this incredible Chocolate Pecan Pie from scratch, gather your loved ones around—you’re in for an unforgettable treat!

Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Pecan Pie

Making a delicious Chocolate Pecan Pie is easier than you think! With a few handy tips, you can ensure your pie turns out perfectly every time.

• Use room temperature eggs: This helps the ingredients blend better, leading to a smoother filling. Room temperature eggs also help the pie rise and set evenly.

• Don’t skip pre-baking the crust: Pre-baking prevents a soggy bottom and ensures that the crust stays flaky. It also adds a lovely golden color that enhances the overall appearance of your pie.

• Chop your pecans for better distribution: If you prefer smaller bites of pecan in each slice, consider roughly chopping some of them. This way, every slice will have a delightful mix of chocolate and pecan!

• Check for doneness carefully: The filling should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center when you take it out of the oven. It will continue to firm up as it cools, so avoid over-baking.

• Let it cool before slicing: Allowing the pie to cool for at least 30 minutes helps the filling to set fully, making it easier to cut clean slices without making a mess!

How to Serve Chocolate Pecan Pie

Serving Chocolate Pecan Pie is an exciting opportunity to impress your guests with both presentation and flavor pairings. Here are some ideas to elevate this already delightful dessert!

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light, fluffy texture that contrasts beautifully with the rich filling.
• Chocolate shavings: Sprinkle some chocolate shavings on top for an elegant touch that ties in with the chocolate chips in the pie.
• Fresh berries: Adding fresh raspberries or strawberries not only enhances the visual appeal but also brightens up each bite with a hint of tartness.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with warm slices of pie, providing a delightful contrast in temperatures.
• Coffee or espresso: A hot cup of coffee or espresso complements the richness of the chocolate and pecans, enhancing the overall experience.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad can balance out the richness of the pie, making it a perfect light side dish for your dessert table.
• Cheese platter: Consider serving a selection of mild cheeses alongside your pie. The savory notes from cheese can surprisingly enhance the sweet flavors in your Chocolate Pecan Pie.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re well on your way to creating an unforgettable dessert experience! Enjoy your baking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chocolate Pecan Pie is not only a delightful treat but also an excellent choice for meal prep! You can prepare it in advance and store it for later enjoyment, making it perfect for holidays or special gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place it inside an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to three months.

Reheating

• Thaw the pie in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the pie on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Have questions about this delicious dessert? Here are some common queries that might help you out!

Can I make Chocolate Pecan Pie without bourbon?

Absolutely! The bourbon is optional and can be omitted without affecting the overall flavor of your Chocolate Pecan Pie. You may use an extra splash of vanilla extract if you wish.

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

Your Chocolate Pecan Pie is done when the filling is set and slightly jiggly in the center. It will firm up as it cools. Remember to cover the crust with a pie shield if it browns too quickly!

Can I use dark chocolate chips instead of semisweet?

Yes, you can substitute dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor in your Chocolate Pecan Pie. Just keep in mind that it may alter the sweetness slightly.

How long does Chocolate Pecan Pie last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, your Chocolate Pecan Pie will last up to two days. If frozen, it can be enjoyed for up to three months!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this decadent Chocolate Pecan Pie! It’s a special recipe that brings warmth and sweetness to any gathering, whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a cozy night at home. Enjoy every slice, and don’t hesitate to share this delightful treat with your loved ones. Happy baking!