When it comes to desserts that capture the essence of Southern charm, Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie takes the crown. Its irresistible combination of crunchy pecans, creamy chocolate, and gooey filling is a show-stopper for holidays, dinner parties, or any occasion where indulgence is a must. Not only does it deliver a mouthwatering taste, but it also looks stunning on any dessert table.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about this delectable dessert, including step-by-step instructions, pro tips, nutritional insights, and answers to common questions. Let’s dig in!
Why You’ll Love Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie
This isn’t just any dessert—it’s a sweet masterpiece. Here’s why this pie will steal the spotlight:
- Perfect Flavor Balance: The rich chocolate complements the earthy nuttiness of the pecans, creating a flavor harmony that delights your taste buds.
- Gooey Texture: The filling’s caramel-like consistency pairs perfectly with the crunch of pecans and the smoothness of chocolate.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family gathering or a potluck, this pie is guaranteed to have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly yet yields bakery-quality results.
Ingredients: Everything You’ll Need to Make It Perfect
For the Crust:
- 1 pre-made 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- Pro Tip: If making from scratch, use chilled butter for a flakier texture.
For the Filling:
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Optional Twist: Swap semi-sweet chocolate for dark chocolate to elevate the richness.
Garnish (Optional):
- Whipped cream
- Extra pecans or chocolate shavings
Step-by-Step Directions: How to Make Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the pie crust and press it into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim the edges neatly and flute them if desired. Keep the crust chilled while you prepare the filling.
2. Create the Gooey Filling:
In a large bowl, whisk together the light corn syrup, granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and creamy. This mixture forms the luscious base of your pie.
3. Add Pecans and Chocolate:
Stir in the pecan halves and chocolate chips, ensuring every bite will be loaded with flavor. Distribute the mixture evenly for a well-balanced pie.
4. Assemble:
Pour the filling into the prepared crust, spreading it out evenly. The pecans and chocolate chips should float throughout the mixture, giving it a rustic look.
5. Bake:
Place the pie dish on a baking sheet to catch any spills. Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until the filling is set but the center still jiggles slightly. If the crust browns too quickly, shield the edges with foil.
6. Cool and Serve:
Let the pie cool completely to allow the filling to set. Serve with whipped cream, extra pecans, or a sprinkle of chocolate shavings for a decorative touch.
Tips for the Perfect Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie
- Prevent Overbaking: The pie should still jiggle slightly in the center when you remove it from the oven. Overbaking will make the filling too firm.
- Keep the Crust from Burning: Use a pie crust shield or foil to protect the edges while baking.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pie crust for a celiac-friendly option.
- Use Fresh Pecans: Stale nuts can ruin the pie’s flavor. Always use fresh pecans for the best results.
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
While this dessert is undoubtedly indulgent, it also offers some surprising benefits:
Nutrition per Slice (1/8 of pie):
- Calories: 450
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 39g
- Vitamin A: 8% DV
- Calcium: 3% DV
- Iron: 6% DV
Health Insights:
- Pecans are rich in healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants, making them heart-friendly.
- Dark chocolate (if used) adds a dose of antioxidants, which can benefit your overall health.
FAQs About Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie
Yes! Once the pie has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Store leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Bring it to room temperature or warm it slightly in the microwave before serving.
Absolutely! A homemade pie crust adds a personal touch and can enhance the flavor and texture of the pie. If you have the time, go for it.
Ensure you bake the pie long enough for the filling to set. The center should jiggle slightly when done, but it will firm up as it cools.
If you prefer not to use corn syrup, you can substitute it with honey, maple syrup, or a homemade simple syrup made from sugar and water. However, this may alter the texture slightly.
Why Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Deserves a Spot on Your Table
Whether you’re a chocolate lover, a pecan enthusiast, or simply someone with a sweet tooth, this Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie checks all the boxes. It’s easy to make, visually stunning, and irresistibly delicious. Plus, its classic Southern roots make it a timeless dessert that never goes out of style.
From its flaky crust to its gooey center, this pie will have everyone raving. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a dessert that’s guaranteed to wow your family and friends.
By following this recipe, you’ll create a Rich and Decadent Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie that’s not just a treat for the taste buds but also optimized to be a feast for the eyes—and the search engines. Happy baking!
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Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie
This Rich and Decadent Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie combines crunchy pecans, creamy chocolate, and a gooey filling for a Southern-inspired dessert that’s irresistibly indulgent and perfect for any occasion.
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made 9-inch pie crust (or homemade if preferred)
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
For the Garnish (Optional):
- Whipped cream
- Extra pecans or chocolate shavings
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, roll out your pie crust and fit it neatly into a 9-inch pie dish. If you’re using a pre-made crust, just unroll it and press it gently into place. Trim off any excess dough and flute the edges for a polished look. Once that’s done, set the crust aside while you work on the filling.
- Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of light corn syrup, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar. Add in the melted butter, three large eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, then whisk everything together until smooth and combined. Don’t forget to add 1/4 teaspoon of salt to bring out the flavors!
- Add the Pecans and Chocolate: Once your filling is smooth and creamy, it’s time to stir in the pecans and chocolate. Gently fold in 1 1/2 cups of pecan halves and 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips, ensuring they are fully coated in the rich, gooey filling mixture. This step is key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors.
- Assemble the Pie: Now that your filling is ready, carefully pour it into the prepared pie crust. Spread the filling out evenly, ensuring the pecans and chocolate are well-distributed throughout the pie. At this point, you’re already halfway to a delicious dessert!
- Bake: Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any potential drips (we don’t want to clean up a mess, do we?). Bake the pie in your preheated oven for 50-55 minutes. Keep an eye on it—your pie is ready when the filling is set, but the center still jiggles slightly when you tap the pie. If the crust is browning too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, allow your pie to cool completely before slicing into it. The filling needs to set, and trust us, the wait will be worth it! You can serve the pie as is, or add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of extra pecans or chocolate shavings for that extra touch of elegance.
Notes
- Crust Options: If you prefer a homemade crust, it’s easy to make! Use a combination of flour, butter, and cold water to create a flaky base. Or, for an added layer of flavor, try a graham cracker crust for a twist.
- Pecan Placement: To make your pie look as stunning as it tastes, consider arranging some of the pecan halves in a decorative pattern on top before baking.
- Storage: Leftover pie? No problem! Cover it tightly and store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. This pie is perfect for making ahead of time for special events.
- Make it Nut-Free: If you’re allergic to nuts or don’t have pecans on hand, you can substitute them with walnuts or hazelnuts.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: 8 servings
- Method: 8 servings
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of the pie)
- Calories: 450kcal
- Sugar: 39g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 65mg