Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie is a rich and indulgent dessert that combines the crunch of pecans with a gooey chocolate filling, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.
This Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie is not just any dessert; it's a celebration of flavors and textures. With its origins rooted in Texan kitchens, this pie brings together the nutty crunch of pecans and the rich, melty goodness of chocolate, creating a symphony of taste that will have your guests begging for seconds.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh pecans
- Decadent filling that perfectly balances sweetness and nuttiness
- A show-stopping dessert that’s easy to prepare
The Perfect Combination of Flavors
Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie is the ultimate dessert for chocolate lovers and nut enthusiasts alike. The rich, velvety chocolate filling is perfectly complemented by the delightful crunch of pecans, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. Each bite offers a satisfying contrast between the gooey filling and the crisp pecan topping, making it a memorable indulgence for any gathering.
The depth of flavor in this pie comes from high-quality ingredients. Using unsweetened cocoa powder enhances the chocolate taste without overwhelming sweetness, while fresh pecans add a nutty richness that elevates the dish. This delightful combination makes every slice a celebration of taste, perfect for special occasions or a cozy family dinner.
An Easy Yet Impressive Dessert
One of the best aspects of Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie is how simple it is to prepare. With a straightforward crust and an easy filling, both novice and experienced bakers can whip up this delicious dessert with minimal effort. The pie can be prepared in under an hour, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the company of your guests rather than stressing over complicated recipes.
Moreover, this pie is visually stunning, making it a show-stopper on any dessert table. The glossy chocolate filling, adorned with a layer of toasted pecans, creates an inviting presentation that is sure to impress. Whether you serve it at a holiday gathering or as a weekend treat, your guests will think you’ve spent hours in the kitchen.
Tips for the Perfect Pie
To achieve the best results with your Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie, start with a well-chilled pie crust. Ensuring that your butter and shortening are cold will help create a flaky, tender crust that holds up beautifully under the rich filling. Consider blind-baking the crust for a few minutes before adding the filling, which can help prevent a soggy bottom if you prefer a crisper texture.
Additionally, don’t skimp on the quality of your ingredients. Fresh pecans and high-quality cocoa powder can make a significant difference in flavor. If you want an extra depth of flavor, lightly toast the pecans before mixing them into the filling. This simple step enhances their natural nuttiness and adds complexity to the overall taste of the pie.
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 1/4 cup shortening
- 4 to 5 tablespoons cold water
For the Filling
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups pecans, chopped
Make sure to have all your ingredients measured and ready before starting.
Instructions
Prepare the Pie Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in butter and shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water, stirring until the dough comes together. Roll out the dough and fit it into a 9-inch pie plate. Prick the bottom with a fork and set aside.
Make the Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together corn syrup, brown sugar, cocoa powder, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Stir in the chopped pecans.
Fill the Pie Crust
Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50 minutes or until the filling is set.
Cool and Serve
Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired.
Enjoy your delicious Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie!
Serving Suggestions
Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. While the pie is delicious on its own, adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes it to the next level. The creaminess of the ice cream perfectly balances the richness of the chocolate filling, creating a delightful contrast that enhances the overall experience.
For a festive touch, consider garnishing the pie with additional pecans or chocolate shavings. A drizzle of caramel sauce also pairs beautifully with the flavors, providing an extra layer of sweetness that many find irresistible. These simple additions can elevate your dessert presentation and impress your guests even more.
Storage Tips
If you have any leftovers (which is a rare occurrence!), storing your Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie is easy. Allow the pie to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it a great make-ahead option for gatherings or holiday celebrations.
For longer storage, consider freezing the pie. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to serve, thaw the pie in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying. This way, you can have a delicious homemade dessert ready at a moment's notice!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before serving.
→ Can I use store-bought pie crust?
Absolutely! A store-bought pie crust can save time and still yield a delicious pie.
→ How do I store leftover pie?
Store leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I add other nuts to the filling?
Yes, feel free to mix in other nuts like walnuts or almonds for added texture and flavor!
Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie
Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie is a rich and indulgent dessert that combines the crunch of pecans with a gooey chocolate filling, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.
Created by: Mia Jefferson
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
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 1/4 cup shortening
- 4 to 5 tablespoons cold water
For the Filling
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups pecans, chopped
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in butter and shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water, stirring until the dough comes together. Roll out the dough and fit it into a 9-inch pie plate. Prick the bottom with a fork and set aside.
In a large bowl, whisk together corn syrup, brown sugar, cocoa powder, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Stir in the chopped pecans.
Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50 minutes or until the filling is set.
Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired.
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