There’s something undeniably delightful about a warm slice of Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie, especially when the rich aroma fills your kitchen, beckoning everyone to gather around the table. This recipe is a beautiful marriage of chocolatey sweetness and nutty goodness, creating a dessert that feels both indulgent and comforting. As I whipped this pie up during an afternoon craving for something a bit special, I realized how easy it is to turn simple ingredients into a decadent masterpiece that pleases all ages.
Whether it’s for a cozy family gathering or just a treat to enjoy after a long day, this pie stands out not just for its flavors but also for its versatility. Serve it plain, or top it off with a dollop of whipped cream for that extra touch. The magic of this Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie is that it brings people together, creating moments of joy and satisfaction. Ready to dive into this delightful recipe? Let’s get baking!
Why You'll Love This Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie
- This Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie is incredibly easy to make, allowing even novice bakers to impress friends and family.
- The rich combination of chocolate and pecans creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Its versatility means you can serve it alone or elevate it with whipped cream, making it suitable for any occasion.
- Visually, the pie is a showstopper, with its glossy filling and crunchy topping that will wow your guests before they even take a bite.
- The time-saving steps in this recipe allow you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of loved ones.
- Overall, this pie is a crowd-pleaser that effortlessly combines simplicity, taste, and beautiful presentation.
Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Ingredients
For the Pie Crust
• All-purpose flour – essential for a flakey and tender crust; make sure it’s properly measured.
• Salt – enhances the flavors of the pie crust.
• Unsalted butter (cold, cubed) – cold butter is key for a perfect texture; it creates those wonderful flaky layers.
• Ice water – helps bind the dough without melting the butter; add gradually to avoid overworking the dough.
For the Filling
• Corn syrup – gives the pie its signature gooey texture and sweetness.
• Granulated sugar – adds sweetness and depth; you can substitute with brown sugar for a richer flavor.
• Unsalted butter (melted) – adds richness to the filling; make sure it’s cooled before mixing in.
• Large eggs – provide structure and stability; room temperature eggs mix in easier.
• Vanilla extract – infuses wonderful warmth and flavor; pure vanilla is always best.
• Salt – balances the sweetness of the pie filling.
• Chopped pecans – add texture and nutty flavor; toast them for an extra crunch.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips – the star of this Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie; use good quality chocolate for the best taste.
Enjoy turning these simple ingredients into a dessert that truly brings joy to your table!
How to Make Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie
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Mix Together: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. This is the foundation for your flaky, delicious crust that balances the rich filling.
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Cut in Butter: Add in the cold, cubed butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. You’re looking for a sandy texture, which ensures flakiness in your crust.
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Add Ice Water: Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough comes together. Remember, don’t overmix—this will keep your crust tender!
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Chill the Dough: Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This resting period helps the butter firm up, ensuring a perfect crust.
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). That’s the perfect temperature for baking your Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie to golden perfection.
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Roll Out Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Aim for about 1/8 inch thickness, so it’s just right for holding that luscious filling.
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Transfer to Pie Pan: Carefully transfer the rolled dough to the pan, trimming any excess. Crimp the edges as desired for a beautiful finish that says “homemade.”
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Whisk the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, granulated sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. This creamy mixture is the heart of your pie!
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Mix in Add-Ins: Stir in the chopped pecans and semi-sweet chocolate chips. Make sure they are evenly distributed for that sweet, nutty surprise in every bite.
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Pour Filling: Pour the filling mixture into the prepared pie crust. The filling should sit comfortably within the crust, ready to bake to perfection.
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Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly puffed. The center may still be slightly jiggly—that’s normal!
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Cool Completely: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. This is vital for achieving clean, beautiful slices.
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Serve & Enjoy: Serve slices of the pie as is, or add a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence. Each bite is sure to bring a smile!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top for a delightful contrast!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists that can elevate your Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie into something uniquely yours.
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Nutty Alternatives: Swap pecans for walnuts for a different flavor profile. Walnuts add a slightly bitter note that can enhance the sweetness of the pie.
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Chocolate Types: Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a more decadent, rich taste. The deeper flavor of dark chocolate pairs beautifully with the sweet filling.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a version that everyone can enjoy without gluten.
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Spiced Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm, holiday-like aroma that will fill your home. These spices can take your pie flavor to a whole new level.
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Sweetener Swap: Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup for a unique, deeper sweetness. This variation offers a new layer of flavor while keeping it wholesome.
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Veggie Twist: For a plant-based option, use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and coconut cream instead of eggs and butter, making it dairy-free yet delicious.
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Heat it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of chili powder to the filling for a surprising, spicy kick that balances the sweetness. This unexpected twist can leave your guests pleasantly surprised.
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Fruit Fusion: Incorporate 1/2 cup of dried cherries or cranberries into the filling for a tangy contrast to the rich chocolate and nuts. This adds both color and flavor complexity to each slice.
How to Store and Freeze Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie
Room Temperature: Keep the pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while maintaining its delectable texture.
Fridge: Store the pie in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days. Chilling enhances the chocolate’s flavor and keeps the filling lovely and fresh.
Freezer: Wrap individual slices or the whole pie tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying a taste of Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie again.
Reheating: To reheat, place slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes. This will revive the filling’s warmth and the crust’s flakiness, making it feel freshly baked!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie in advance is a fantastic way to save time and enjoy delicious homemade dessert with minimal effort! You can make the pie crust up to 3 days ahead, simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. The filling can also be prepared up to 24 hours in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to bake, pour the chilled filling into the prepped crust and bake as directed. This method ensures everything is just as delicious while freeing up your schedule for those busy days!
What to Serve with Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie?
A warm slice of pie deserves delightful companions that elevate your dessert experience, inviting everyone to gather and indulge.
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Whipped Cream: Add a luscious dollop for a creamy contrast against the rich chocolate and pecans. It’s a classic pairing that takes this pie to new heights!
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Scoop a generous helping beside your slice for a delightful temperature play. The creamy sweetness balances the warm, gooey pie perfectly.
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Coffee: A strong brew complements the chocolate and nutty notes beautifully, enhancing the overall experience. It’s the perfect way to end a meal and energize your evening.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle on top for an extra decadent touch. This intensifies the chocolate flavor and creates a beautiful presentation!
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Fresh Berries: Bright, tart berries offer a refreshing burst against the pie’s rich flavor. Their acidity cuts through the sweetness, creating a harmonious balance.
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Nutty Cookie Crusts: Serve with almond or hazelnut cookies for added texture and flavor diversity. The nutty notes will resonate with the pecans in the pie, making every bite a delight.
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Sweet Tea: A chilled glass of sweet tea pairs wonderfully and brings a Southern flair to your dessert experience, perfectly complementing the warm flavors of the pie.
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Chocolate Mint Tart: For a double chocolate experience, offering mini tarts is a great way to entice guests. The fresh mint adds a refreshing twist.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie, be careful not to overwork the dough when mixing the flour and butter to ensure a flaky crust.
- Always chill your dough thoroughly before rolling it out; this helps maintain the integrity of the butter and results in a light texture.
- For the filling, incorporate the eggs at room temperature for a smoother mixture, and whisk until fully combined for uniform flavor.
- Finally, keep an eye on the baking time; it’s better to remove the pie when the center is slightly jiggly, as it will continue to set as it cools.
Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Recipe FAQs
What kind of pecans should I use for the pie?
Absolutely! I recommend using fresh, unsalted pecans for the best flavor. Look for pecans that are firm and have a nice, crunchy texture. Avoid any that have dark spots or smell rancid.
How should I store leftover Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie?
You can store your pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you have leftovers after that, keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This will enhance the chocolate flavor while maintaining the freshness of the filling!
Can I freeze Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie?
Very much so! To freeze, wrap the entire pie or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight.
What if my pie filling doesn’t set properly after baking?
Don’t worry! If your Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie filling is still jiggly after the baking time, it may need a bit longer. Bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, keeping a close eye on it. Remember, it’s normal for the center to be slightly soft—it will firm up as it cools!
Is this pie suitable for people with nut allergies?
Sadly, no. This Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie contains nuts, specifically pecans. If you’re cooking for someone with nut allergies, you might consider making a different pie, like a chocolate silk pie, which would be delicious and nut-free!
Can I use a store-bought pie crust instead of making my own?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, a pre-made pie crust will work just fine. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for baking times, as they can vary from homemade crusts.
Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour essential for a flaky and tender crust
- 1/2 teaspoon salt enhances flavors of the pie crust
- 1 cup unsalted butter cold, cubed
- 1/4 cup ice water helps bind the dough
- 1 cup corn syrup gives the pie its signature gooey texture
- 1 cup granulated sugar adds sweetness and depth
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted and cooled
- 3 large eggs room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract pure vanilla is always best
- 1/4 teaspoon salt balances sweetness
- 1 cup chopped pecans toast for extra crunch
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips use good quality chocolate
Method
- In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt.
- Add in the cold, cubed butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
- Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll out the chilled dough to fit a 9-inch pie pan.
- Transfer the rolled dough to the pan, trimming any excess.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk corn syrup, granulated sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
- Stir in chopped pecans and semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- Pour the filling mixture into the prepared pie crust.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly puffed.
- Allow to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.
- Serve slices of the pie as is, or with whipped cream.
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