Rich and Decadent Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie – A Southern Classic with a Twist
A gooey, chocolatey take on traditional pecan pie—loaded with pecans, semi-sweet chips, and Southern charm
Introduction: A Bold Twist on a Beloved Tradition
Pecan pie is a Southern staple—rich, nutty, and sweet with a buttery crust and a gooey center. But when you add chocolate to the mix? You get something truly unforgettable. This Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie takes everything you love about the classic and turns it up a notch with semi-sweet chocolate chips melted into the filling for a decadent twist.
Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any time you want a dessert that feels like a warm hug, this pie is easy to make, stunning to serve, and guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients Breakdown
Let’s take a closer look at what makes this pie so indulgent:
For the Crust:
- Pre-made 9-inch pie crust
Convenient and flaky—perfect for quick prep.
Optional: Use homemade crust for extra buttery flavor and texture.
For the Filling:
- Light corn syrup (1 cup)
Adds sweetness and creates that classic gooey texture. - Granulated sugar (½ cup)
Sweetens and balances the richness. - Brown sugar (½ cup, packed)
Adds depth and molasses-like flavor. - Unsalted butter (¼ cup, melted)
Adds richness and helps bind the filling. - Large eggs (3)
Provide structure and creaminess. - Vanilla extract (1 tsp)
Adds warmth and aroma. - Salt (¼ tsp)
Balances the sweetness. - Pecan halves (1½ cups)
Toasty, nutty, and essential to the Southern soul of the pie. - Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup)
Melty, rich, and perfectly bittersweet.
Tip: Use high-quality chocolate for best flavor.
For the Garnish (Optional):
- Whipped cream
Light and fluffy contrast to the rich filling. - Extra pecans or chocolate shavings
Adds texture and visual appeal.
Equipment Needed
- 9-inch pie dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Aluminum foil (for crust protection)
- Oven
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Roll out your pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish.
Trim and flute the edges as desired.
Set aside.
Tip: Chill the crust while you prepare the filling to prevent shrinkage
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large bowl:
- Whisk together 1 cup corn syrup, ½ cup granulated sugar, ½ cup packed brown sugar, ¼ cup melted butter, 3 large eggs, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and ¼ tsp salt until smooth.
Stir in:
- 1½ cups pecan halves
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Mix until evenly coated.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust.
Spread evenly with a spatula.
Place the pie dish on a baking sheet to catch any drips.
Step 4: Bake
Bake at 350°F for 50–55 minutes, until:
- Filling is set
- Center jiggles slightly when gently shaken
Tip: If crust edges brown too quickly, cover with foil halfway through baking.
Step 5: Cool & Serve
Let the pie cool completely before slicing—this allows the filling to set.
Serve as is, or top with:
- Whipped cream
- Extra pecans or chocolate shavings
Yields:
- 8 slices
Presentation Tip: Serve on a rustic wooden board with a drizzle of chocolate sauce and a sprinkle of sea salt.
Serving Suggestions
Perfect for:
- Thanksgiving
- Christmas
- Sunday dinners
- Southern-themed gatherings
Pair with:
- Bourbon or coffee
- Vanilla ice cream
- Fresh berries
Tip: Warm slices slightly before serving for extra gooeyness.
Variations to Try
Want to make it your own? Try these delicious twists:
Coconut Chocolate Pecan Pie
Add shredded coconut to the filling.
Walnut Chocolate Pie
Swap pecans for walnuts for a deeper, earthier flavor.
Citrus Twist
Add orange zest to the filling for brightness.
Vegan Version
Use egg replacer, dairy-free butter, and vegan chocolate chips.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Make-Ahead: Bake up to 2 days in advance.
- Refrigerate: Store covered for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight.
Tip: Reheat slices in oven at 300°F for 10 minutes to restore texture.
Nutrition Notes (Per Slice, ~1 of 8)
- Calories: ~450
- Protein: ~5g
- Carbohydrates: ~50g
- Fat: ~25g
- Sugar: ~35g
- Sodium: ~180mg
- Fiber: ~2g
This pie is:
- Rich and gooey
- Sweet and nutty
- Perfectly portioned
- Great for sharing
Final Thoughts
This Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie is more than just dessert—it’s a celebration of Southern tradition with a bold, chocolatey twist. Whether you’re baking for a holiday table or just treating yourself, it’s guaranteed to impress and satisfy.