There’s something magical about a Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie that brings me right back to my childhood. I can still remember the warm, sweet aroma wafting through my grandmother’s kitchen as she pulled this pie from the oven. It was a staple at every family gathering, and it seemed like everyone had a special reason to love it. The way the rich chocolate mingles with those crunchy pecans creates a symphony of flavors that makes your heart sing. Every slice was a little piece of heaven, and honestly, I think it’s safe to say it was the highlight of our meals.

This Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday feast or just a cozy evening at home. It’s a dessert that brings people together, inviting laughter and stories as we gather around the table. Plus, it’s simple enough to whip up even on a busy day, making it an ideal choice for those sweet moments that deserve a little indulgence. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into making this delicious pie that’s sure to become a favorite in your home too!

Why You’ll Love "Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie"

Quick prep time of just 15 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
Uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that you probably already have on hand.
Rich chocolate and crunchy pecans create a delightful flavor combination that pleases everyone.
Family-friendly dessert that kids and adults alike will adore.
Freezer-friendly, so you can make it ahead of time and save some for later.
Elegant enough for special occasions but easy enough for any day of the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 store-bought pie crust (or homemade for a personal touch)
1 egg white, lightly beaten (for brushing the crust)
1 cup dark chocolate chips (semi-sweet or bittersweet, choose your favorite brand)
3 large eggs (room temperature helps with mixing)
1 cup light corn syrup (you can substitute with maple syrup for a different flavor)
½ cup granulated sugar (adjust based on your sweetness preference)
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted (use high-quality butter for the best flavor)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (pure vanilla extract makes a difference)
¼ teaspoon salt (enhances all the flavors)
1 ½ cups pecan halves, toasted (toasting brings out their nutty flavor)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your pie bakes evenly and perfectly.

Prepare the Pie Crust

Next, grab your pie crust and fit it into a pie dish. If you're using a store-bought crust, just unroll it and place it gently in.
Brush the bottom of the crust with the lightly beaten egg white. This helps to create a barrier that keeps the crust from getting soggy.

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl or a double boiler, melt the dark chocolate chips. If using a microwave, heat in 30-second increments, stirring in between, until smooth. If using a double boiler, stir until melted and silky.

Mix the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the three large eggs, light corn syrup, granulated sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until everything is well combined and smooth.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the melted chocolate until it's fully incorporated into the mixture. Don’t worry if it looks a little runny; it will set up nicely in the oven!
Gently fold in the toasted pecan halves, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the filling.

Pour and Bake

Carefully pour the filling into the prepared pie crust, making sure to spread the pecans evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the pie is set and slightly puffed. You can check for doneness by gently jiggling the pie; it should not be overly wobbly in the center.

Cool Before Serving

Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to firm up a bit more.

Variations

Add a splash of bourbon for a delightful twist on the traditional flavor.
For a lighter option, try substituting half of the butter with applesauce.
Use pecan meal instead of whole pecans for a different texture.
Experiment with flavored chocolate, like orange or mint, for a unique taste.
Try making mini pecan pies using muffin tins for individual treats.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

Serve your Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie warm or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for that extra indulgence. You can also sprinkle a few extra toasted pecans on top for a beautiful presentation!

Storage

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the pie for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing, and thaw in the fridge before serving!

Helpful Notes

For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free pie crust.
Feel free to substitute dark chocolate chips with milk chocolate for a sweeter taste.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.
Using fresh pecans? Toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for added flavor.
Keep an eye on the pie while baking to avoid overcooking; it should be set but still slightly soft in the center.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie?

Yes, you can freeze Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.

What can I use instead of corn syrup?

If you don’t have corn syrup on hand, you can substitute it with an equal amount of maple syrup or honey. Both options will add a lovely flavor to the pie, although the sweetness level may vary slightly. For more information on sweeteners, check out Harvard Health's guide on sugar.

How do I know when the pie is done?

To check if the pie is done, gently jiggle it after baking. The filling should be set but still slightly soft in the center. You can also insert a knife into the pie; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s ready to be taken out of the oven.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try this Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie as I am to share it with you! It’s more than just a dessert; it’s a slice of nostalgia that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. Don’t be afraid to make it your own, whether by adding a special twist or just enjoying it exactly as it is. Remember, the best part of cooking is sharing those delicious moments with loved ones. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s create some beautiful memories together around the table. You’ve got this, and I can’t wait to hear how it turns out!

Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie

Author: Emily Parker
Total Time: 75 minutes
Yield: 8 slices 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie combines rich chocolate and crunchy pecans in a sweet filling.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the pie crust in a pie dish and brush the bottom with beaten egg white.
Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave or double boiler until smooth.
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, corn syrup, sugar, melted butter, vanilla, and salt.
Stir in the melted chocolate until well combined.
Fold in the toasted pecans.
Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust.
Bake for 50-60 minutes or until set.
Let the pie cool before serving.

Notes

Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 400
Sugar: 25g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie, chocolate pie, pecan pie, dessert