Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite dessert: Chocolate Pecan Pie! It’s like a warm hug on a plate, rich and indulgent with that perfect mix of gooey chocolate and crunchy pecans. I remember the first time I made this pie for Thanksgiving; the smell wafting through the house was just heavenly! Everyone gathered around, eagerly waiting to dive into this sweet delight, and trust me, it didn’t last long. The buttery crust cradling that luscious filling is simply irresistible. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or just a cozy dinner at home, this pie has a way of making any moment feel special. So, if you’re ready to impress your family or treat yourself, let’s get into this mouthwatering recipe!
Ingredients for Chocolate Pecan Pie Recipe
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making the best Chocolate Pecan Pie, and I promise it’s worth it! Here’s everything you’ll need:
- 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade, your choice!)
- 1 cup pecans, chopped (feel free to toast them for extra flavor)
- 1 cup chocolate chips (I love using semi-sweet for that perfect balance)
- 3/4 cup corn syrup (this gives it that signature gooeyness)
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar (the darker, the better for that rich taste!)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (make sure it’s nice and warm)
- 3 large eggs (room temperature works best)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (trust me, don’t skip this one!)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (just a pinch to elevate all those flavors)
Now that you have your ingredients ready, you’re one step closer to baking this delicious pie! It’s all about the right mix, and I can’t wait for you to taste it!
How to Prepare Chocolate Pecan Pie Recipe
Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven ready! Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because it ensures your pie bakes evenly, giving you that perfect, gooey center and a beautifully set filling. You wouldn’t want to put your pie in a cold oven; it just wouldn’t be the same!
Prepare the Pie Crust
Next up, let’s talk pie crust. You can use a store-bought crust for convenience or whip up a homemade one if you’re feeling adventurous! If you go the homemade route, roll out your dough and fit it into a pie dish, crimping the edges for that lovely touch. Either way, make sure it’s chilled before you fill it, which helps keep it nice and flaky!
Combine the Filling Ingredients
Now, let’s get to the delicious part! In a mixing bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. I like to make sure everything is well combined and smooth—this is where the magic happens! You want that filling to be creamy and luscious, so whisk, whisk, whisk until it’s just right!
Assemble the Pie
Time to bring it all together! Spread the chopped pecans and chocolate chips evenly in the prepared pie crust. Then, gently pour the filling mixture over them. Here’s a handy tip: pour slowly and carefully to avoid any overflow. We want all that yummy filling to stay snug in the crust!
Bake the Pie
Pop your pie into the preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the filling is set but still has a slight jiggle in the center. It should look all glossy and inviting! Keep an eye on it towards the end to avoid overbaking.
Cooling and Serving
Once it’s done baking, let your pie cool at room temperature for at least an hour. This cooling time is crucial as it helps the filling firm up a bit more. When you’re ready to serve, slice it up and consider adding a dollop of whipped cream on top. It’s like the cherry on the sundae—absolutely divine!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich, chocolatey flavor that’s simply irresistible
- Crunchy pecans add the perfect texture contrast
- Easy to prepare, with just a few simple steps
- Perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in
- Can be made ahead of time, making entertaining a breeze
- Delicious served warm or at room temperature
- Pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
- A classic dessert that impresses family and friends
- Flexible recipe that allows for creative variations
- Every bite is a delightful combination of gooey and crunchy
Tips for Success
Want to take your Chocolate Pecan Pie to the next level? I’ve got some pro tips that will make your pie truly unforgettable!
- Blind-bake the crust: For that perfect crispy texture, I highly recommend blind-baking your pie crust for about 10-15 minutes before adding the filling. This step prevents a soggy bottom and gives you that lovely flaky crust.
- Use high-quality chocolate: The chocolate chips make a huge difference in flavor. I always go for semi-sweet or dark chocolate from a brand I trust. It elevates the pie to a whole new level of indulgence!
- Don’t overmix the filling: When you’re whisking the filling ingredients, just combine them until smooth. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, which isn’t ideal for the texture you want.
- Watch your bake time: Every oven is a bit different, so keep an eye on your pie as it bakes. If it looks too jiggly when you take it out, give it a few more minutes. A perfect pie should be set but slightly wobbly in the center.
- Let it cool properly: Patience is key! Allow your pie to cool for at least an hour before slicing. This waiting game helps the filling firm up nicely for clean slices.
- Experiment with flavors: Don’t hesitate to add your own twist! A splash of bourbon or a pinch of cinnamon can add a delightful depth to the flavor.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to impress! Happy baking!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk about the deliciousness packed in each slice of this Chocolate Pecan Pie! While it’s a decadent treat, it’s good to know what you’re indulging in. Here are some typical nutritional values for one slice of this pie, but keep in mind that these are just estimates:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 25g
- Protein: 4g
These values can vary depending on the specific ingredients you choose, but this should give you a good idea. Enjoy every bite, and remember, it’s all about balance when it comes to treats like this!
FAQ About Chocolate Pecan Pie Recipe
Can I use a different type of nut?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of pecans or just want to switch things up, you can use walnuts or hazelnuts as alternatives. Each nut will bring its own unique flavor to the pie. Walnuts have a slightly bitter taste that complements the sweetness of the chocolate beautifully, while hazelnuts add a delightful nuttiness that can really elevate the overall experience. Just make sure to chop them up a bit, similar to how you would with pecans!
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
You bet! This Chocolate Pecan Pie is perfect for making ahead of time. I often bake it a day or two in advance, and it stays delicious in the fridge. Just let it cool completely after baking, then cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, you can enjoy it cold or give it a gentle warm-up in the oven. Just be sure to keep an eye on it so it doesn’t get too hot!
What can I serve with Chocolate Pecan Pie?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! This pie pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream—there’s just something magical about that creamy texture against the rich filling. You could also serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which adds a lovely chill that contrasts with the warm pie. For something a bit more adventurous, try drizzling some caramel sauce on top or even a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the flavors. As for beverages, a nice cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine would complement the sweetness perfectly. Trust me, you can’t go wrong with these pairings!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your Chocolate Pecan Pie properly is key to keeping all that deliciousness intact! Once the pie has cooled completely, cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days—though I doubt it will last that long because it’s just too tempting!
If you happen to have leftovers (lucky you!), and want to keep the pie for longer, you can freeze it. Just make sure it’s wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe container. It should be good for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight. You can serve it cold or warm it up a bit in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Just keep an eye on it to ensure it’s warmed through but not overbaked. You want that gooey filling to shine!
So, whether you’re enjoying it fresh or saving some for later, you can savor that rich, chocolatey goodness whenever the craving strikes!
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Chocolate Pecan Pie Recipe: 7 Irresistible Secrets Revealed
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and indulgent chocolate pecan pie with a buttery crust.
Ingredients
- 1 pie crust
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 3/4 cup corn syrup
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread chopped pecans and chocolate chips evenly in the pie crust.
- In a bowl, whisk together corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla, and salt.
- Pour the mixture over the pecans and chocolate in the crust.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the filling is set.
- Let it cool before serving.
Notes
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
- Pair with whipped cream for extra flavor.
- Store leftovers in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Chocolate Pecan Pie Recipe