Name: Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie: Indulge in Pure Decadence
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 210 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups all-purpose flour (Switch to gluten-free flour if needed.); 0.25 teaspoons salt (Omit if using salted butter.); 0.5 cups unsalted butter (Substitute with vegetable shortening for a dairy-free option.); 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (Brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.); 3-4 tablespoons ice water (Use cold water for best texture.); 1 cup light corn syrup (Maple syrup can be a delightful substitute.); 0.5 cups brown sugar (Both light and dark sugars work.); 0.33 cups unsweetened cocoa powder (Consider Dutch-processed cocoa for a smoother outcome.); 3 large eggs (Flax eggs are a great vegan alternative.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Opt for pure vanilla extract for the best results.); 1 cup pecan halves (Walnuts or hazelnuts can also be a substitute.); 0.5 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (Bittersweet chocolate is an excellent deeper flavor choice.)

As I pulled the warm Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie from the oven, the inviting aroma of melting chocolate and toasted pecans embraced my kitchen. This beloved dessert has a way of bringing people together, whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy dinner with friends. The combination of crunchy pecans and velvety chocolate creates an irresistible flavor that’s hard to resist. What’s even better? This delightful pie is surprisingly quick to prepare, making it a perfect choice for those of us who crave homemade indulgence without the fuss. Plus, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds! Are you ready to unravel this sweet temptation?

Why is This Pie a Must-Try?

Decadent Delight: Experience the incredible harmony of chocolate and pecans that tantalizes the taste buds with each bite.
Effortless Preparation: With straightforward steps, this recipe fits perfectly into any busy schedule without sacrificing flavor.
Versatile Varieties: Feel free to mix things up; try different nuts or swirl in a bit of espresso for an extra kick!
Crowd Favorite: Your guests will rave about this impressive dessert, making it ideal for gatherings or special occasions. Indulge in even more delightful desserts like our Peanut Butter Chocolate cookies or Dark Chocolate Cherry cheesecake for a complete sweet experience.
Perfect Pairing: Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for that extra touch of heavenly comfort!

Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Ingredients

• Get ready to gather some delightful ingredients for this crowd-pleasing dessert!

For the Crust

All-Purpose Flour – Structure is key; switch to gluten-free flour for a gluten-free crust if needed.
Salt – Enhances the flavor; omit if you’re using salted butter.
Unsalted Butter – Provides fat for flakiness; substitute with vegetable shortening for a dairy-free option.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the crust; brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.
Ice Water – Helps form the dough; make sure it’s very cold for the best texture.

For the Filling

Light Corn Syrup – Adds sweetness and moisture; maple syrup can be a delightful substitute.
Brown Sugar – Brings sweetness and depth; both light and dark sugars work, with dark offering a richer taste.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Infuses flavor and color; consider Dutch-processed cocoa for a smoother outcome.
Large Eggs – Acts as a binding agent; flax eggs are a great vegan alternative.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; opt for pure vanilla extract for the best results.
Pecan Halves – Brings a lovely nutty crunch; walnuts or hazelnuts can also be a tasty substitute.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Adds richness; bittersweet chocolate is an excellent choice for deeper flavor.

Now that you have all the essentials, you’re one step closer to creating a mouthwatering Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie that everyone will love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
In a large bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Cut in ½ cup of cold, unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add 3–4 tablespoons of ice water, mixing until a dough forms. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic, and chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to ensure it’s firm.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven
While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is essential for achieving the perfect bake on your Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie, creating a crispy crust and a luscious filling. Have your 9-inch pie pan ready so you can move seamlessly from forming the crust to baking.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Once the dough has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator and place it on a lightly floured surface. With a rolling pin, roll the dough to a ⅛ inch thickness, creating a circle that fits your pie pan. Carefully transfer the dough to the pan, trimming any excess that hangs over the edges, then prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling during baking.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of light corn syrup, ½ cup of brown sugar, and ⅓ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder until smooth. Add 3 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Fold in 1 cup of pecan halves and ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to create that irresistible filling you’ll pour into your crust.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Pour the prepared filling into the chilled pie crust, spreading it evenly. Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. The edges should be set while the center remains slightly jiggly—this ensures a firm yet fudgy texture for your Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie. Keep an eye on the crust to avoid over-browning.

Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. This cooling period allows the filling to set properly, making it easier to slice. Once cool, slice the pie and serve it warm or at room temperature, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate treat!

How to Store and Freeze Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie

Fridge: Keep the Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain its delicious freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, freezing it for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Reheating: To enjoy your pie warm, slice and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

Serving Tips: If you’ve stored the pie in the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture.

What to Serve with Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie?

As you savor the last sweet bites of this sumptuous delight, consider elevating your meal with delightful pairings that will bring out every luscious flavor.

Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast, making each bite even more indulgent.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve warm pie with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream to melt perfectly into the chocolatey filling. There’s something magical about that warm and cold combination!
Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or strawberries provide a refreshing tartness that cuts through the richness, enhancing the overall experience.
Coffee or Espresso: A cup of coffee or a shot of espresso complements the chocolate flavors beautifully, providing a delightful balance of bitterness and sweetness.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling rich chocolate sauce on top adds an extra layer of decadence, perfect for true chocoholics.
Nutty Biscotti: A crunchy biscotti made with almonds or hazelnuts brings an appealing texture and nutty flavor that harmonizes with the pecans in the pie.
Caramel Sauce: For those with a sweet tooth, a swirl of warm caramel sauce can elevate your serving to new heights of indulgence.
Toasted Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle some toasted coconut on top for a tropical twist that contrasts beautifully with the chocolate and pecans.
Mint Tea: This refreshing herbal tea adds a soothing finish that can cleanse the palate after a rich dessert.

Expert Tips for Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie

• Chill the Crust: Always chill your pie crust before rolling it out to prevent shrinking during baking, ensuring a beautiful shape.

• Mix Thoroughly: Whisk the filling ingredients well for even flavor distribution in your Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie; lumps can lead to uneven sweetness.

• Monitor Baking Time: Avoid overbaking! The pie continues to set as it cools, so pull it out when slightly jiggly in the center for a fudgy texture.

• Use Cold Ingredients: Keep ingredients like butter and water very cold to achieve a flaky crust. Warm ingredients can make the dough tough.

• Choose Quality Chocolate: Opt for high-quality chocolate chips in your filling for an extra decadent flavor; it makes all the difference in this rich dessert.

Make Ahead Options

These Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can make the pie crust up to 24 hours in advance—simply prepare it, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate to maintain its flakiness. Additionally, the filling can be mixed together and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring all flavors meld beautifully. To serve, simply pour the chilled filling into the prepared crust and bake as directed. This way, when your sweet tooth beckons, you not only have a delicious dessert ready to go but also more time to enjoy the occasion!

Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie! Each twist will add its own delightful flair.

Nutty Swap: Substitute pecans with walnuts or hazelnuts for a new texture and taste. Different nuts bring their unique nutty profiles, making the pie just as comforting yet refreshingly different.
Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut oil or vegetable shortening instead of butter for a buttery texture without dairy. This twist keeps everyone happy, ensuring a mouthwatering treat suitable for various diets.
Chocolate Richness: Try bittersweet chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a sophisticated, deeper chocolate flavor. This simple swap elevates the richness of the pie, making it a true chocolate lover’s dream.
Flavor Booster: Stir in a tablespoon of espresso powder to the filling for an extra kick. This little trick amplifies the chocolate flavor, giving it an invigorating depth that makes each bite a surprise!
Sweet Alternatives: Substitute brown sugar with honey or agave syrup for added sweetness and a different flavor dimension. Either option will add a lovely hint of caramel that complements the chocolate beautifully.
Coconut Crunch: Mix in shredded coconut alongside the pecans for a tropical twist. The chewy texture of coconut combined with the crunch of nuts creates a delightful contrast in your pie.
Spice it Up: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm, cozy flavor that’s perfect for the holiday season. This little addition will warm up your heart and home with every slice.

As you enjoy your baking adventure, remember to explore delicious dessert variations with our Chocolate Chip Vanilla custard brioches or Dark Chocolate Raspberry macarons for even more sweetness!

Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Recipe FAQs

How to select ripe pecans for the best flavor?
Absolutely! When choosing pecans, look for whole, unbroken nuts that are shiny and have no dark spots or wrinkles. Fresh pecans should feel slightly oily to the touch. If you can, try to buy them from a store that has a high turnover to ensure they’re fresh and flavorful.

What’s the best way to store the Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie?
To keep your pie fresh, store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just be sure to use a cake carrier or cover it with plastic wrap to avoid any fridge odors affecting the delicious chocolate and pecan flavors!

Can I freeze Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie?
Certainly! To freeze your pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil for extra protection against freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.

What should I do if my pie filling is too runny?
If your filling seems too thin, it might be due to undercooking. Make sure to bake the pie until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly but not liquid. If you find it’s still not setting after baking, you can also return it to the oven for an additional 10 minutes for a sturdier filling. Just keep a watchful eye to avoid overbaking!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt this recipe. For gluten-free options, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Want it vegan? Use flax eggs instead of large eggs and vegetable shortening instead of butter. Just remember to double-check your chocolate for dairy-free options.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! Preparing the Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie a day in advance is a great idea. It allows the flavors to meld beautifully overnight in the fridge. Just remember to let it cool completely before covering it to preserve its delightful texture and richness as it sits.