Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie – A Rich Southern Classic with a Chocolate Twist
If you’re craving a dessert that’s sweet, crunchy, chocolaty, and deeply comforting, the Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie is your answer. A beloved Southern favorite, this pie brings together the rich, nutty flavor of pecans with the indulgent depth of cocoa and the smooth sweetness of corn syrup. It’s the perfect pie for holidays, special gatherings, or any time you want to impress your guests with a homemade dessert that’s both traditional and unique.
Ingredients:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust – store-bought or homemade
- 1 cup light corn syrup – provides sweetness and that classic gooey texture
- 1/2 cup brown sugar – adds a deep, caramel-like flavor
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar – balances the sweetness
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – for rich chocolate flavor
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted – brings richness and moisture
- 3 large eggs – binds the filling together
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances the overall flavor
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness and brings out the chocolate notes
- 1 1/2 cups pecan halves or chopped pecans – the signature crunch of the pie
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan. Crimp the edges or decorate as desired. If using homemade crust, chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes before filling.
2. Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Make sure the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
3. Add the Pecans
Stir in the pecans, ensuring they are fully coated with the chocolate filling. You can also reserve a few pecan halves to decorate the top of the pie before baking for a beautiful presentation.
4. Pour and Bake
Pour the filling into the prepared crust. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the center is set and a knife inserted into the middle comes out mostly clean. The top should look slightly puffed and firm.
Tip: If the crust starts to brown too much, cover the edges with foil or a pie crust shield.
Cooling and Serving
Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack. It will firm up as it cools. For best results, chill the pie in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight before serving.
Serve slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.
Why This Pie Is More Than Just Dessert
This Texas-style pie is more than just sweet—it’s nostalgic, comforting, and filled with textures that make every bite unforgettable. The pecans are rich in healthy fats, antioxidants, and fiber, while cocoa provides flavonoids that may benefit heart and brain health. Yes, it’s indulgent—but with ingredients like these, every slice brings joy and a little nutrition.
Tips for Success:
- Use fresh pecans for the best flavor and crunch.
- Don’t overbake—slightly jiggly centers firm up as they cool.
- Want more chocolate? Add a handful of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the filling.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Storage: Keep the pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie
- Make Ahead: The pie can be made a day in advance and actually tastes better after sitting overnight!
Final Thoughts
The Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie is more than just a Southern dessert—it’s a warm, chocolatey hug in pie form. Whether you’re serving it for Thanksgiving, a family reunion, or just a cozy evening at home, it’s a recipe that delivers every time. Rich, sweet, crunchy, and unforgettable—this pie is sure to become a favorite in your household.