The moment I think of Decadent Chocolate Pecan Pie, memories of family gatherings and cozy holidays come flooding back. I remember the first time I tried combining chocolate with my traditional pecan pie recipe; it felt like such an indulgent twist! The rich, velvety chocolate blends perfectly with the warm, nutty crunch of the pecans, making this Decadent Chocolate Pecan Pie a special treat that’s hard to resist. With its gooey center and golden crust, this pie is truly a showstopper that everyone looks forward to.
The Perfect Crunchy-Creamy Balance
Creating this pie is a delightful experience. I start by arranging the pecans in the crust, letting them create a beautiful pattern that holds up through the baking. Then comes my favorite part—melting the chocolate and mixing it into a creamy filling. This is the heart of Decadent Chocolate Pecan Pie, and it’s where all the magic happens. As it bakes, the chocolate and pecans come together to create a texture that’s both crunchy and smooth, with every bite melting in your mouth.
Baking the Pie with Love
Once the pie goes into the oven, the kitchen fills with a rich, toasty aroma that reminds me of autumn leaves and cozy blankets. This is my signal to start preparing whipped cream or, occasionally, a scoop of vanilla ice cream to serve on the side. When the timer finally goes off, I let the Decadent Chocolate Pecan Pie cool just enough to set. I always make sure to serve it warm so that the chocolate is perfectly gooey and the pecans are still crunchy.
A Family Favorite
Over the years, this pie has become a family favorite, especially during the holidays. Everyone asks for a slice—sometimes two! It’s not just a dessert; it’s a tradition filled with love and deliciousness. The happiness I see on everyone’s faces as they savor each bite makes all the effort worthwhile.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes- Decadent Chocolate Pecan Pie
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing eggs and butter to room temperature before mixing is crucial. This helps the filling blend smoothly, creating a silky, even texture.
- Pie Dough Handling: When rolling out the dough, use minimal flour to prevent sticking but avoid excess, which can make the crust tough. Rotate the dough regularly as you roll to maintain an even thickness.
- Preventing Soggy Crust: Positioning the oven rack in the lower third of the oven allows for better bottom heat, which helps the crust bake more thoroughly and prevents sogginess.
- Pie Shield for Crust Protection: If you don’t have a pie shield, simply use strips of aluminum foil to cover the edges halfway through baking. This prevents the edges from over-browning.
- Add Bourbon for Depth: For an added twist, a small splash (1-2 tablespoons) of bourbon can enhance the richness of the chocolate and pecans without overwhelming the flavors.
- Cooling Time for Perfect Slices: Allow the pie to cool fully on a wire rack. This is essential for a set filling that slices cleanly.
- Optional Salt Garnish: Garnish with a touch of flaky sea salt only after the pie has cooled. This prevents the salt from dissolving and keeps it visually appealing and flavorful.
Decadent Chocolate Pecan Pie
4
servings1
hour15
minutes50
minutes500
kcal2
hours4
hours5
minutesIndulge in the ultimate chocolate pecan pie, masterfully crafted with rich dark chocolate and crunchy pecans, perfectly balanced with a hint of sea salt. This irresistible dessert brings together deep flavors and a luscious, silky filling that will impress any crowd. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or craving a decadent treat, this pie delivers unparalleled taste and texture. Get ready to elevate your baking game with this simple, yet luxurious recipe that’s bound to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- Crust
Artisan pie dough prepared as per recipe; yields one crust
1/4 cup unsalted butter melted and slightly cooled
- Filling
1 1/4 cups roasted pecans shelled
1/2 cup premium dark chocolate chips
2 large eggs at room temperature
1/2 cup dark corn syrup
1/4 cup dark brown sugar tightly packed
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1/4 tsp sea salt
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- Toppings
Flaky sea salt crystals for garnish
- Alternative Ingredients:
Dark Chocolate Chips: Substitute with semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate chips.
Unsalted Butter: Use coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
Dark Corn Syrup: Replace with maple syrup or honey.
Pie Crust: Use a gluten-free crust for those with gluten intolerance.
Eggs: Substitute with flax eggs for a vegan alternative.
Directions
- Prepare the Crust: Begin by following the pie dough recipe up to step 5. Once chilled, position the oven rack in the lower third and preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). On a floured surface, gently roll out one dough disc into a 12-inch circle, rotating the dough periodically for an even shape. Carefully transfer the dough into a 9-inch pie dish, smoothing the edges with your fingers and then fluting or crimping the crust edges for a decorative finish. No need to pre-bake the crust. *(Approx. 20 minutes)*
- Assemble the Filling: Evenly distribute the roasted pecans within the pie crust, followed by an even layer of dark chocolate chips. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, dark corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, sea salt, and ground cinnamon until thoroughly blended and slightly thickened. Pour this mixture evenly over the pecans and chocolate layer. *(Approx. 15 minutes)*
- Bake the Pie: Place the pie in the oven and bake for 40-50 minutes until the top achieves a light golden brown. Halfway through baking, apply a pie crust shield to prevent the edges from over-browning, or tent the pie with aluminum foil if necessary. Upon completion, remove the pie from the oven and set it on a wire rack to cool completely, allowing the filling to set. Garnish with flaky sea salt before slicing and serving. Optionally, add whipped cream and chocolate shavings for extra indulgence. *(Approx. 50 minutes baking + cooling time)*
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 500kcal
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Potassium: 200mg
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 35g
- Protein: 6g
- Vitamin A: 10IU
- Vitamin C: 0mg
- Calcium: 50mg
- Iron: 3mg
FAQ- Decadent Chocolate Pecan Pie
Can I make this pie in advance?
Yes, this pie can be made a day ahead and stored covered at room temperature. If you prefer it slightly warm, reheat individual slices in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes.
What can I use instead of dark corn syrup?
Maple syrup or honey can be used as alternatives. Keep in mind that these will slightly alter the flavor profile but will still result in a delicious pie.
How can I tell when the pie is done?
The pie is done when the edges are set, but the center still has a slight jiggle. It will firm up as it cools. Baking for 40-50 minutes should achieve this texture, but ovens vary, so check at the 40-minute mark.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftover pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to 5 days, though the texture of the crust may soften slightly.
Can I use a store-bought crust?
Absolutely! A store-bought crust can save time. Just make sure it’s thawed before pressing it into the pie dish, and follow the recipe as directed for filling and baking.
