Rich & Decadent Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie (Homemade!)
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Indulge in this rich and decadent Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie, a homemade delight that's perfect for any occasion.
This Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie is a beloved dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the crunchy texture of pecans. Perfect for family gatherings or holiday celebrations, this pie is sure to impress!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh pecans
- Creamy filling that perfectly balances sweetness and texture
- A show-stopping dessert that’s easy to make at home
The Origins of Chocolate Pecan Pie
Chocolate pecan pie is a beloved dessert that embodies the spirit of Texas cuisine. This delightful pie is a variation of the classic pecan pie, which has its roots in the Southern United States. The addition of rich chocolate elevates this dessert, making it a favorite for many. The combination of creamy chocolate and crunchy pecans creates a flavor profile that is both indulgent and satisfying.
Pecan pie itself dates back to the 19th century and has become a staple in American households, especially during holidays and special gatherings. The Texan twist adds a unique flair, showcasing the state's bounty of fresh pecans. Whether served at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any family celebration, this pie is sure to impress.
Perfecting Your Pie Crust
A flaky, buttery pie crust is the foundation of any great pie. To achieve the perfect texture, it’s essential to work with chilled ingredients and avoid overworking the dough. When mixing the flour, sugar, and salt with the butter, aim for a crumbly consistency. This will ensure that your crust bakes up light and tender, complementing the rich filling beautifully.
Chilling the dough before rolling it out is another crucial step. This not only helps to maintain the shape of your crust but also improves the overall texture. If you find your dough is too sticky, a light dusting of flour can help. When fitted into the pie pan, make sure to press gently to avoid tearing, and don’t forget to chill it again before baking!
Serving Suggestions
This decadent Texas chocolate pecan pie is delicious on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a creamy contrast to the rich filling. Alternatively, a drizzle of caramel sauce can enhance the sweetness and add an extra layer of flavor.
For a touch of elegance, consider garnishing with chocolate shavings or a sprinkle of sea salt. The salt can help balance the sweetness, making each bite even more enjoyable. Serve it warm for a comforting dessert or chilled for a refreshing treat – either way, it’s sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3-4 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
Instructions
Prepare the Pie Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
Make the Filling
In a separate bowl, whisk together corn syrup, brown sugar, cocoa powder, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Stir in the pecan halves.
Bake the Pie
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the filling into the chilled pie crust and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set. Allow to cool before serving.
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare with this indulgent pie!), storing them properly is key to maintaining freshness. Allow the pie to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or foil. It can be stored at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
To reheat, simply warm individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This will help revive the delicious texture and flavor of the pie, making it taste almost as good as fresh out of the oven!
Variations to Try
While the classic chocolate pecan pie is a sure winner, there are numerous variations you can experiment with. For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of espresso or coffee to the filling, enhancing the chocolate notes without overpowering the pecans. You can also substitute some of the corn syrup with maple syrup for a unique twist.
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a layer of chocolate ganache on top of the pie after baking. This extra layer of chocolate not only looks stunning but also adds a luxurious texture that chocolate lovers will adore. Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use store-bought pie crust?
Yes, you can use a store-bought pie crust to save time.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the pie a day in advance and refrigerate it until serving.
→ What can I substitute for corn syrup?
You can use maple syrup or honey as a substitute for corn syrup, but it may change the flavor slightly.
Rich & Decadent Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie (Homemade!)
Indulge in this rich and decadent Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie, a homemade delight that's perfect for any occasion.
Created by: Clara Jennings
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the Pie Crust
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3-4 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Roll out the dough and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
In a separate bowl, whisk together corn syrup, brown sugar, cocoa powder, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Stir in the pecan halves.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the filling into the chilled pie crust and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set. Allow to cool before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g