Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie: A Decadent Dessert Recipe

If you are a fan of rich, nutty, and chocolaty desserts, then this Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie: A Decadent Dessert Recipe is about to become your new favorite indulgence. This pie combines the classic Southern pecan pie’s irresistible crunch with luscious semi-sweet chocolate, wrapped in a buttery homemade crust that melts in your mouth. Every bite is a perfect harmony of textures and flavors, from the gooey filling to the crisp edges of the pie crust. If you love desserts that feel both comforting and a little extravagant, this pie will absolutely steal the show at your next gathering or cozy night in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, well-loved ingredients that come together to create an unforgettable pie. Each one plays an important role in the overall taste, texture, and appearance, making sure you get that perfect, golden crust and the luscious nutty-chocolate filling every time.

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy base that holds your pie together with just the right tenderness.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances the flavors throughout the crust and filling.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed): Adds richness and flakiness to the crust, ensuring it’s tender and buttery.
• 1/4 cup ice water: Helps the dough bind perfectly without becoming tough.
• 1 cup light corn syrup: Sweetens the filling while giving it that classic, glossy pecan pie texture.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the pecans and chocolate.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted): Infuses the filling with creamy richness and a velvety texture.
• 4 large eggs: Bind everything together and create that classic custardy finish.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Gives warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
• 1 cup chopped pecans: Provide the iconic crunch and nutty flavor essential to any pecan pie.
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melt into the filling, creating pockets of rich chocolate bliss in every bite.

How to Make Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie: A Decadent Dessert Recipe

Step 1: Make the Dough

Start by mixing your all-purpose flour and salt in a large bowl. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to combine everything until it looks like coarse crumbs. This part builds the tender, flaky texture of your crust, so be sure not to overwork the butter.

Step 2: Add Ice Water

Drizzle in the ice water slowly while mixing until the dough just starts to come together. Don’t add too much water at once—you want the dough to hold together without becoming sticky or tough. This careful balance keeps the crust delicate yet sturdy.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This chilling relaxes the gluten and solidifies the butter, making the dough easier to roll and ensuring a flakier pie crust.

Step 4: Preheat the Oven

While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Proper oven temperature is key for even baking of both crust and filling.

Step 5: Roll the Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Gently transfer it to a 9-inch pie pan, trimming any hanging edges and crimping the sides to create a pretty border. This is the welcoming home for your luscious filling.

Step 6: Mix the Filling

Whisk together the light corn syrup, granulated sugar, and melted butter until smooth. Beat in eggs one at a time to ensure a silky custard base. Stir in vanilla extract, which adds warmth and brightness to the filling.

Step 7: Add Pecans and Chocolate

Fold chopped pecans and semi-sweet chocolate chips gently into the filling batter. The pecans will maintain their satisfying crunch while the chocolate chips soften and meld into the custard during baking.

Step 8: Pour the Filling

Pour the mixture into your prepared pie crust evenly to make sure every slice has the perfect balance of nuts and chocolate.

Step 9: Bake

Bake your pie for 50-60 minutes until the filling is set and the top is a gorgeous golden brown. Your pie may puff slightly as it bakes, but it will settle beautifully as it cools—this is a good sign of a well-cooked custard filling.

Step 10: Cool the Pie

Once out of the oven, set the pie on a wire rack and let it cool for at least 2 hours. This crucial step allows the filling to firm up so your slices come out clean and perfect every time.

Step 11: Serve

Slice and serve as is or with a generous dollop of whipped cream or creamy vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of indulgence.

How to Serve Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie: A Decadent Dessert Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of powdered sugar, a few whole toasted pecans, or a drizzle of melted chocolate on top adds visual appeal and a bit more flavor complexity. Fresh whipped cream or a scoop of melting vanilla ice cream beside the pie makes every bite feel like a celebration.

Side Dishes

This pie pairs beautifully with simple sides like fresh seasonal berries or a citrus salad, which cut through the richness and add a refreshing balance to the dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving miniature versions in tartlet pans for party-friendly portions or layered into a trifle with whipped cream and crushed pecan praline for a stylish twist on Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie: A Decadent Dessert Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover pie covered tightly with plastic wrap or foil at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, use the refrigerator to keep it fresh for up to a week.

Freezing

You can freeze baked Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie wrapped well in plastic wrap and foil for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for the best texture.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in a low oven (around 300°F) for 10-15 minutes or until just heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can make the crust soggy.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pie crust for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought crusts save time and work well here, though making your own adds that special homemade touch that is a little more buttery and flaky.

What type of chocolate works best?

Semi-sweet chocolate chips are ideal for balancing sweetness and richness, but feel free to experiment with dark or milk chocolate chips depending on your taste preferences.

How do I know when the pie is done baking?

The filling should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center, and the top should turn a lovely golden brown. It will firm up completely as it cools.

Can I prepare the filling in advance?

Yes, you can mix the filling a few hours ahead and keep it refrigerated. Just give it a gentle stir before pouring it into the crust to combine any separation.

Is it necessary to toast the pecans first?

Toasting pecans enhances their flavor and crunch, but you can use them raw if you’re short on time or prefer the milder taste.

Final Thoughts

Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie: A Decadent Dessert Recipe is a truly special treat that brings together the beloved flavors of pecans and chocolate in a buttery crust that will delight every guest. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a family dinner, or simply because the craving hits, this pie is sure to bring smiles and requests for seconds. I encourage you to dive into this recipe and savor every fabulous bite of this wonderfully indulgent Texas classic.

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