Chocolate Pecan Pie

If you’re looking for a dessert that will make everyone swoon, then you’ve landed on the right page! Chocolate Pecan Pie is not just any pie; it’s a delightful combination of gooey chocolate and crunchy pecans nestled in a buttery, flaky crust. This recipe has been a staple at my family gatherings, bringing everyone together over the sweet and comforting flavors. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving, or Christmas, this pie always steals the show!

What makes Chocolate Pecan Pie special is how simple it is to prepare while still delivering an impressive result. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick dessert or for festive occasions when you want to impress your guests. Trust me; this pie will quickly become a favorite in your household too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require fancy skills. Even beginner bakers can make it with confidence!
• Family-Friendly: With its rich chocolate flavor mixed with crunchy pecans, it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this pie ahead of time, leaving you free to enjoy more time with friends and family during the festivities.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of chocolate and pecans creates a sweet and nutty profile that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for this delicious Chocolate Pecan Pie! Most of these items can easily be found in your pantry or local grocery store.

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

One of the best things about Chocolate Pecan Pie is how flexible it can be! You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

• Add Some Spice: Consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a surprising kick that complements the sweetness.
• Nutty Twist: Swap out some of the pecans for walnuts or almonds if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free chocolate chips to make this pie suitable for those avoiding dairy products.
• Fruit Infusion: Mix in some dried cherries or cranberries for an extra layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate.

How to Make Chocolate Pecan Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Preheat the oven to 375°F. This step ensures that our pie cooks evenly and achieves that perfect golden crust.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

Remove the pie crust from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes until it’s slightly pliable. On a floured surface, roll out your dough into a 13-inch circle about 1/8-inch thick. This helps create an even crust that will cradle all that delicious filling!

Step 3: Shape Your Crust

Gently roll your dough around the rolling pin and unroll it over a 9-inch deep dish pie pan. Carefully press it into place without stretching. Trim the excess dough, leaving about an inch overhang, and crimp or flute the edges. This adds a lovely decorative touch!

Step 4: Add Your Fillings

Spread the pecan halves and chocolate chips evenly across the bottom of your prepared crust. Each slice will have that delightful combination of textures!

Step 5: Mix Your Filling

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, corn syrup, optional bourbon, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until smooth. Pour this mixture over your layered nuts and chocolate chips—this will create that gooey goodness we all love!

Step 6: Bake Your Pie

Place your pie in the preheated oven! Bake for 30 minutes before carefully placing a pie shield over the crust to prevent burning. Continue baking until set for another 20 to 25 minutes—your kitchen will be filled with heavenly aromas!

Step 7: Cool Before Serving

Remove from oven and let cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This step allows everything to firm up nicely so each piece holds its shape when served.

Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to two days—though I doubt there will be much left! Enjoy every bite of your homemade Chocolate Pecan Pie!

Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Pecan Pie

Making a perfect Chocolate Pecan Pie is easier than you think! With a few helpful tips, you’ll ensure your pie comes out gooey, chocolatey, and absolutely delicious.

• Use room temperature eggs: This helps the ingredients blend more smoothly, creating a consistent filling that sets beautifully during baking.

• Don’t skip pre-baking the crust: A pre-baked crust prevents sogginess and ensures that your pie has a lovely golden-brown finish.

• Check for doneness with a toothpick: Insert a toothpick into the center of the filling; if it comes out mostly clean (with just a bit of gooeyness), your pie is ready!

• Let it cool before slicing: Allowing the pie to cool for at least 30 minutes lets the filling firm up, making it easier to slice and serve without making a mess.

• Experiment with chocolate types: While semisweet chocolate chips are traditional, feel free to mix in dark or milk chocolate chips for different flavor profiles!

How to Serve Chocolate Pecan Pie

Presenting your Chocolate Pecan Pie can be just as delightful as making it. Here are some fun ideas to elevate your serving game!

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of this light and fluffy topping adds a rich contrast to the sweet filling and is dairy-free!

• Chopped pecans: Sprinkle some toasted pecans on top for an added crunch that complements the pie’s texture beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of chocolate pecan pie, creating a comforting dessert experience.

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds brightness and balances out the sweetness of the pie. Consider using seasonal fruits like pears or apples!

• Coffee or tea: Serving your pie with a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea provides a cozy finish to your dessert experience, enhancing those delightful chocolatey notes.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Chocolate Pecan Pie will be the star of any gathering—whether it’s Thanksgiving dinner or an intimate Friendsgiving celebration! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chocolate Pecan Pie is not only a delightful dessert but also perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it in advance and enjoy it fresh when you need it most.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Allow the pie to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil for extra protection.
• Freeze for up to two months.

Reheating

• Thaw the pie overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F.
• Place the pie in the oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delicious Chocolate Pecan Pie.

Can I make Chocolate Pecan Pie without bourbon?

Absolutely! The bourbon is optional and can be omitted without affecting the overall flavor of your pie. Simply skip that ingredient and enjoy a rich, chocolatey filling.

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

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

Can I use different types of chocolate chips?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different varieties like dark chocolate or even white chocolate if you prefer a sweeter taste!

How long will Chocolate Pecan Pie last in the fridge?

Your Chocolate Pecan Pie will keep well in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just be sure it’s covered properly to maintain its freshness!

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Pecan Pie is truly a special dessert that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. Its gooey, rich filling combined with a buttery crust makes it a favorite among family and friends. I hope you enjoy making this delightful treat as much as I do! Happy baking, and don’t hesitate to share your experience – I’d love to hear how yours turns out!