The moment I took my first bite of Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie, I felt a delightful whirlwind of flavors; the velvety richness of chocolate blended seamlessly with the nutty crunch of pecans. This isn’t just a dessert; it’s a celebration of Southern comfort, perfect for gatherings or quiet evenings at home. With each slice, you’re treated to the satisfying crunch of buttery pecans and the indulgence of a fudgy filling, wrapped in a golden, flaky crust that whispers “homemade goodness” at every turn.

And the best part? This pie comes together with surprisingly simple ingredients, making it not only a crowd-pleaser but also an easy bake for any level of home cook. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a Monday night craving, Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie elevates any meal, providing that sweet touch of nostalgia and warmth. Let’s dive into the recipe and bring this Southern tradition into your kitchen!

Why is Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie a Must-Try?

Indulgent Layers: This pie boasts a velvety, chocolate-infused filling that combines harmoniously with crunchy pecans, showcasing rich flavors that wow every palate.

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can impress guests with this show-stopping dessert.

Versatile Enjoyment: Perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to weeknight treats, this pie is sure to please kids and adults alike.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it the day before your event to save time and enjoy a worry-free dessert experience.

Cultural Flair: A delightful nod to Southern heritage, this pie brings a warm sense of nostalgia and comfort to your table, making it a beautiful addition to any recipe collection.

Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Ingredients

For the Pie Crust
• All-purpose flour – Provides structure for the pie crust; can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Salt – Enhances flavor in both crust and filling, essential for balance.
• Unsalted butter (cold and cubed) – Adds richness and helps achieve a flaky crust; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
• Granulated sugar – Sweetens the crust and aids in browning; can be replaced with brown sugar for a richer flavor.
• Ice water – Binds the crust ingredients without melting the butter; use cold milk or dairy-free milk as an alternative.

For the Filling
• Light corn syrup – Acts as a sweetener and creates the traditional filling texture; maple syrup can be used for a different flavor.
• Brown sugar – Adds sweetness and a deeper flavor profile; can substitute with coconut sugar for a less refined option.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder – Provides the chocolate flavor to the filling; use carob powder for a caffeine-free option.
• Large eggs – Binds the filling together and provides structure; substitute with flax eggs for a vegan option.
• Vanilla extract – Enhances flavor depth; vanilla bean paste can be used as a premium substitute.
• Pecan halves – Adds crunch and nuttiness; walnuts or hazelnuts can be substituted.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips – Ensures chocolatey richness; dark chocolate chips can be used for a more intense flavor.

How to Make Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie

Prepare the Pie Crust: In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and sugar together. Cut in the cold, cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the ice water until combined, then form it into a disk and chill for 30 minutes.
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it nice and hot while you prepare the filling.
Roll Out the Dough: After chilling, roll out the dough on a floured surface until it’s large enough to fit in a 9-inch pie pan. Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork to prevent bubbling.
Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the light corn syrup, brown sugar, cocoa powder, and eggs until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract, pecans, and chocolate chips for a delightful crunch!
Assemble and Bake: Pour the luscious filling into the prepared crust. Bake for 50-60 minutes until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center, creating that perfect texture.
Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. This cooling time helps to set the filling perfectly before you slice it.

Optional: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a heavenly treat!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie

Cold Ingredients: Always use cold butter and ice water to achieve a flaky crust. Warm ingredients can lead to a dense, tough texture.
Cooling Time: Let your pie cool completely before slicing to prevent a runny filling. Trust me, the wait is worth it!
Chocolate Highlights: For an intense chocolate flavor, add chocolate chips right before pouring the filling. This enhances the richness in every slice of your Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie.
Texture Check: Don’t overbake! The pie should have a slightly jiggly center when it comes out. It will set perfectly as it cools.
Substitution Savvy: Feel free to experiment with different nuts or sweeteners, but maintain the essence of this classic dessert for the best results.

How to Store and Freeze Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie

Fridge: Store your pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, tightly covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh and delicious.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pie for up to 3 months. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: Thaw the pie in the fridge overnight before reheating. To rewarm, pop individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm in a low oven (300°F) for about 10 minutes. Enjoy the flavors of Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie all over again!

Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the pie a day ahead of your event and store it in the refrigerator for a worry-free dessert that’s ready to impress your guests.

What to Serve with Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie?

There’s something magical about rounding off a meal with the perfect dessert, especially when it’s as decadent as this pie.

Whipped Cream: A dollop of fluffy whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the rich, chocolatey filling, making each bite even more delightful.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold texture of vanilla ice cream complements the warm pie beautifully, creating a delicious temperature contrast that will make your taste buds sing.
Coffee: A steaming cup of rich coffee enhances the chocolate flavors in the pie, making for a cozy, comforting pairing perfect for any time of day.
Fresh Berries: The tartness of fresh raspberries or strawberries provides a refreshing burst of flavor that cuts through the richness, balancing out the pie’s sweetness.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce on top intensifies the dessert experience, alluring the chocolate lovers in your group to indulge even further.
Nutty Shortbread Cookies: Serving a few crunchy nutty shortbread cookies alongside offers an interesting texture that harmonizes perfectly with the pie’s fudgy filling.

Experience the joy of pairing these elements that not only elevate your Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie but create a truly memorable dining experience!

Make Ahead Options

These Texas Chocolate Pecan Pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the pie crust up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the crust ingredients, form it into a disk, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. The filling can also be mixed up to 3 days ahead; store it in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to bake, simply roll out the chilled crust, pour in the prepped filling, and bake as directed. This way, you can enjoy a rich, homemade dessert with minimal effort after a busy day, and it will be just as delicious!

Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Variations

Customize your Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie to suit your taste buds and dietary needs with these delightful twists!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to make the crust without compromising texture.
Dairy-Free: Swap out unsalted butter for coconut oil, ensuring your crust remains just as flaky and delicious.
Maple Sweetened: Instead of light corn syrup, try using pure maple syrup for a unique earthiness that complements the chocolate beautifully.
Nut-Free: For a nut-free version, leave out the pecans entirely or replace them with crunchy sunflower seeds for a delightful twist.
Vegan Delight: Use flax eggs instead of regular eggs, and ensure all other ingredients, like chocolate chips, are dairy-free.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the filling for a surprising burst of warming spice that pairs wonderfully with chocolate.
Bourbon Infusion: Stir in a splash of bourbon to the filling mixture for a depth of flavor that gives a nod to classic Southern comforts.
Intense Chocolate: Replace semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips for a richer chocolatey experience that chocolate lovers will adore!

Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best pecans for my pie?
Absolutely! Look for pecans that are fresh and have a good crunch. Avoid nuts with dark spots or a rancid smell, as these can indicate spoilage. If you can find them, raw pecans will give your Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie a lovely, buttery flavor.

What’s the best way to store my Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie?
You can store your pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh and prevent it from drying out. If you have leftovers, this quick storage method works wonders!

Can I freeze my Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie? If so, how?
Yes, indeed! You can freeze your pie for up to 3 months. First, let it cool completely. Then, wrap it securely in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving, and warm it up if desired.

What if my pie filling is too runny when I cut into it?
Very good question! A runny filling often happens when the pie hasn’t cooled long enough. Make sure to let your pie cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before slicing; this helps the filling set up nicely. If that happens, don’t worry—just enjoy it as a delicious chocolate sauce!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes, indeed! If you have allergies, ensure that your pecans don’t come into contact with other nuts, and check your other ingredients for allergens. For a dairy-free pie, substitute the butter with coconut oil and choose dairy-free chocolate chips.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! For a worry-free dessert, make your Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie a day in advance. Just store it covered in the refrigerator. This adds to the flavor as it sits and saves you time on the day of your gathering. Enjoy the delicious flavors with no last-minute stress!