If you’re looking for a pie that perfectly combines rich chocolate, buttery pecans, and that signature Southern charm, this Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Recipe is your new go-to. It’s a luscious twist on the classic pecan pie with a deep chocolatey kick, creating a dessert that’s both indulgent and comforting. Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a cozy weekend treat, this pie brings warmth and sweetness to every bite, making it a beloved favorite in any dessert lineup.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Recipe plays an important role, from the flaky crust to the rich, gooey filling. These simple staples come together to create a dessert that’s perfectly balanced in flavor and texture.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base for a tender and flaky pie crust that holds all that delicious filling.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: A pinch to enhance all the sweet flavors without overpowering the pie.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed): Adds richness and flakiness to the crust, the star of every slice.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the crust just enough to balance the pie’s richness.
- 1/4 cup ice water: Helps bind the dough together while keeping it cool and easy to work with.
- 1 cup light corn syrup: Creates that classic, sticky pecan pie filling with a smooth texture.
- 1 cup brown sugar: Adds warmth and depth with a hint of molasses flavor.
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Brings the signature chocolate note that makes this pie unforgettable.
- 4 large eggs: Provide structure and richness to the custard-like filling.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances and rounds out all the flavors beautifully.
- 2 cups pecan halves: Offer a satisfying crunch and nutty sweetness that’s essential to this classic.
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Little pockets of melty chocolate that take each forkful to the next level.
How to Make Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Perfect Pie Crust
Start by combining flour, salt, and granulated sugar in a bowl. Cut in the cold, cubed butter until the mixture becomes crumbly—this part ensures your crust is flaky and tender. Add the ice water last and gently mix until the dough just comes together, then shape it into a disk and chill for at least 30 minutes. This rest time helps the dough relax, making rolling it out much easier.
Step 2: Preheat Your Oven
Getting your oven ready is crucial, so preheat it to 350°F (175°C). This moderate temperature allows the filling to bake evenly without burning the crust.
Step 3: Roll Out and Transfer the Dough
On a floured surface, roll the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Carefully transfer it to a pie pan and gently press it into the edges. Don’t forget to prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbles during baking—little details like this make a difference!
Step 4: Mix the Heavenly Filling
In a separate bowl, whisk together light corn syrup, brown sugar, cocoa powder, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and glossy. This chocolatey custard mixture is the luscious heart of the pie. Stir in pecan halves and semi-sweet chocolate chips, folding everything together so every bite has a perfect balance of nuts and melty chocolate.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the filling into your prepared crust, spreading it evenly. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the center is just set and no longer jiggly. This ensures you get that signature gooey yet firm texture that everyone loves.
Step 6: Cool Before Serving
Patience is key! Let the pie cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours so the filling can fully set. This step makes slicing cleaner and enhances the flavors as they meld together beautifully.
How to Serve Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of freshly whipped cream can elevate your Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Recipe to stunning dessert status. For a little extra flair, try garnishing with a few toasted pecans or a drizzle of caramel sauce—the contrast of textures and flavors delights every palate.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, which cuts through the richness and adds a refreshing creaminess. You can also serve it alongside freshly brewed coffee or a robust black tea to complement the chocolate and pecan flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Fancy a fun twist? Serve individual mini Texas Chocolate Pecan Pies in ramekins, or create a pie bar with assorted toppings like chopped nuts, chocolate shavings, and caramel drizzle for guests to customize. Another idea is slicing and serving the pie with fresh berries on the side, adding a bright, juicy contrast that’s as pretty as it is tasty.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Recipe leftovers can be stored covered at room temperature for up to two days. To keep it fresh longer, store it in the refrigerator where it will last about 4 to 5 days without sacrificing texture or flavor.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this pie later or save some for a special occasion, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge to maintain that perfect texture.
Reheating
Warm slices gently in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 to 15 minutes. This method refreshes the gooey filling and crispiness of the crust without drying it out, making every bite taste freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use a store-bought pie crust for this recipe?
Absolutely! While homemade crust brings a wonderful buttery flavor, a pre-made crust can save time and still yield delicious results, especially if you’re short on prep time.
What type of pecans work best?
Use fresh, good-quality pecan halves for the best crunch and flavor. Toasting them lightly before adding to the filling can also boost their nuttiness.
Is there a way to make this pie gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking. Be sure it includes xanthan gum or a binding agent to keep the crust sturdy.
How do I know when the pie is fully baked?
The filling should be set around the edges with a slight wobble in the center when gently shaken. It will firm up as it cools, so avoid overbaking to keep it gooey and luscious.
Can I prepare the pie in advance for a party?
Definitely! The pie can be baked a day ahead and stored covered at room temperature or refrigerated. Just bring it to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Final Thoughts
This Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Recipe is truly a celebration of Southern flavors with a chocolate twist that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s a dessert worth the effort and perfect for making memories around the table. I can’t wait for you to try it and savor every rich, nutty bite!
Print
Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Southern
Description
This Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie combines the rich, nutty flavor of pecans with decadent chocolate and a luscious, gooey filling, all encased in a homemade buttery pie crust. Perfect for a festive dessert or any special occasion, this pie marries traditional Southern pecan pie with a delicious chocolate twist.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
- 1/4 cup ice water
Pie Filling
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare the pie crust: In a bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, salt, and granulated sugar. Cut in the cold, cubed unsalted butter using a pastry cutter or fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, mixing just until the dough comes together to form a disk. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the correct temperature while you prepare the filling and crust.
- Roll out the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Carefully transfer it to a pie pan and gently press down to fit the shape, trimming any excess. Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork to prevent bubbling during baking.
- Make the filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together the light corn syrup, brown sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. Gently stir in the pecan halves and semi-sweet chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the filling.
- Fill and bake: Pour the prepared filling into the pie crust. Place the pie on the middle rack in the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, until the filling is set but still slightly jiggles in the center when gently shaken.
- Cool the pie: Remove the pie from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool completely for at least 2 hours. This resting period allows the filling to fully set for clean slices. Serve at room temperature.
Notes
- Chilling the pie dough before rolling helps prevent shrinkage and makes it easier to handle.
- Check the pie after 50 minutes; if the edges brown too quickly, cover with foil to prevent burning.
- Allowing the pie to cool completely before slicing ensures the filling is firm and slices hold their shape.
- For an extra decadent touch, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
