Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Indulge in the rich, nutty flavors of Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie, a delightful dessert that perfectly balances sweet chocolate and crunchy pecans.
This Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie has become a beloved classic, combining the rich flavors of chocolate with the crunchy texture of pecans. It's perfect for gatherings, holidays, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Decadent chocolate flavor with a hint of nuttiness
- Perfectly balanced sweetness that satisfies every craving
- A show-stopping dessert for any occasion
The Perfect Balance of Flavor
Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie is a dessert that truly embodies the spirit of Southern cooking. The combination of rich chocolate and crunchy pecans creates a harmonious blend that tantalizes the taste buds. Each bite is a delightful journey, where the deep, velvety cocoa flavor complements the nutty crunch of the pecans, making it a memorable treat for any dessert lover.
The sweetness of the filling is perfectly balanced, ensuring that it satisfies even the most discerning sweet tooth. This pie is not overly sweet, allowing the natural flavors of the pecans and chocolate to shine through. It’s a dessert that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an added touch of indulgence.
A Show-Stopping Dessert
Whether you're hosting a holiday gathering, a birthday celebration, or just a cozy family dinner, Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie is sure to impress your guests. Its rich appearance and delicious aroma fill the room, inviting everyone to take a slice. The pie’s glossy surface and golden crust create a stunning visual that enhances any dessert table.
Not only is this pie visually appealing, but it also offers a delightful texture contrast. The firm, fudgy filling paired with the crisp crust and crunchy pecans makes for an exciting eating experience. It’s a dessert that everyone will be talking about long after the last slice is gone.
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 3 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Make sure to gather all your ingredients before starting for a smooth preparation process.
Instructions
Prepare the Pie Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the diced butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Roll Out the Dough
On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle about 1/8 inch thick. Transfer it to a 9-inch pie pan, trim the excess, and crimp the edges.
Make the Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, brown sugar, cocoa powder, eggs, and vanilla. Stir in the chopped pecans and chocolate chips.
Assemble and Bake
Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust and bake for 50 minutes, or until the filling is set. Let it cool before serving.
Serve your Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!
Tips for Perfecting Your Pie
To achieve the perfect pie crust, ensure that your butter is well-chilled. This helps create a flaky texture that complements the rich filling. When mixing the dough, avoid overworking it; you want the butter to remain in small chunks for the best results.
For the filling, using fresh, high-quality ingredients is key. Opt for pure vanilla extract rather than imitation for a deeper flavor. Additionally, to enhance the chocolate taste, consider using dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a more intense chocolate experience.
Serving Suggestions
Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie is delicious on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess of the ice cream contrasts perfectly with the fudgy filling, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
For an extra touch, drizzle some caramel sauce over the pie before serving. The sweet, buttery flavor of the caramel enhances the chocolate and pecan flavors, making each bite even more irresistible. You can also sprinkle some sea salt on top to elevate the flavor profile.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this pie in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the pie a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator.
→ What can I substitute for corn syrup?
You can use maple syrup or honey as a substitute for corn syrup.
→ Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, walnuts or almonds can be used as alternatives, but they will change the flavor profile.
→ How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie
Indulge in the rich, nutty flavors of Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie, a delightful dessert that perfectly balances sweet chocolate and crunchy pecans.
Created by: Daphne Collins
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 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 3 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the diced butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle about 1/8 inch thick. Transfer it to a 9-inch pie pan, trim the excess, and crimp the edges.
In a large bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, brown sugar, cocoa powder, eggs, and vanilla. Stir in the chopped pecans and chocolate chips.
Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust and bake for 50 minutes, or until the filling is set. Let it 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