Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie

Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie is a decadent twist on the Southern classic, blending gooey fudge filling with crunchy toasted pecans. Each bite delivers rich chocolate sweetness with a nutty crunch that feels comforting and indulgent. This pie is beloved during Thanksgiving and Christmas across Texas, where pecan pie holds a special place on every holiday table. What makes it extra tempting is how easy it is to whip together, even on a busy holiday morning. With just a handful of pantry staples, you’ll have a dessert that looks impressive and tastes even better. Serve it warm with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and you’ll have a crowd-pleaser everyone will remember long after the feast.

Why You’ll Love This Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie

Rich Chocolate Flavor

Unlike traditional pecan pie, this version boasts a gooey fudge-like center that pairs perfectly with crunchy pecans. The mini chocolate chips melt into the filling, creating layers of richness in every bite.

Quick and Easy Preparation

Holiday desserts often take hours, but not this one. You only need a few minutes to whisk the filling together, pour it into a crust, and bake. No complicated steps, just simple holiday baking joy.

Perfect for Holiday Celebrations

Because it’s both classic and chocolatey, this pie satisfies different tastes at once. It looks beautiful on a dessert table and feels festive enough for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or even a potluck with friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 (9-inch) deep dish prepared crust
• 1 (12oz) jar hot fudge sauce, warmed
• 3 large eggs
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3 cups chopped pecans
• 2/3 cup mini chocolate chips

You can use dark chocolate chips instead of mini ones for a deeper cocoa flavor. Pecan halves also make a decorative topping, though chopped pecans work just fine. Homemade pie crust is wonderful, but a store-bought crust saves time without sacrificing taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Place your prepared pie crust on a foil-lined baking sheet to catch drips.
2. Remove the lid and seal from the fudge sauce jar, then microwave for 40 seconds until pourable. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
3. Whisk in eggs, light brown sugar, heavy cream, vanilla, and salt until smooth and glossy.
4. Stir in mini chocolate chips and one-third of the chopped pecans. This ensures chocolate and nuts are evenly distributed inside.
5. Pour the filling into the crust, then sprinkle the remaining pecans across the top for crunch and color.
6. Bake for 40–45 minutes. The center should look firm but slightly jiggle like a soft brownie.
7. Let the pie cool completely before slicing. Cutting too soon will make it messy, so patience pays off here.

Prep time is only 5 minutes, with about 45 minutes of bake time. You’ll know it’s done when the top looks glossy and the pecans feel toasted but not burned.

Recipe Notes and Expert Tips

Crust Options (store-bought vs. homemade)

A store-bought crust saves time and works beautifully, but a flaky homemade crust adds an extra homemade touch. If you go homemade, blind-bake the crust for about 10 minutes to avoid sogginess.

Chocolate Variations (dark, milk, or chips)

Dark chocolate chips bring a bold, bittersweet taste, while milk chocolate makes it sweeter and creamier. Mini chips melt more evenly, but regular chips also work.

Decorative Toppings (pecan halves vs chopped pecans)

Chopped pecans give a rustic, crunchy finish, while pecan halves create a more polished, bakery-style look. Both taste equally delicious, so choose based on the vibe you want for your table.

Mini Pie Option (adjusted baking time)

You can make individual mini pies using muffin tins and small crusts. Bake them for 20–25 minutes, keeping a close eye so they don’t overbake.

Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions

Cool the pie completely before storing. If serving later, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. It keeps well for 3–5 days in the fridge. For make-ahead prep, bake the pie the day before your gathering. Let it cool, cover, and refrigerate. Before serving, bring it to room temperature or gently warm slices in the oven for that fresh-baked feel.

Serving Suggestions

This pie shines on its own, but it gets even better with toppings. Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for creamy contrast to the crunchy nuts and gooey chocolate. It also pairs beautifully with coffee or hot cocoa on a chilly evening. On a holiday dessert table, this pie sits comfortably next to a gooey salted maple pie for the holidays or even a festive pecan pie cookie twist. The textures are indulgent but balanced: crisp crust, silky chocolate filling, and toasty pecans in every forkful.

FAQ About Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie

Related Recipes to Try

• Gooey salted maple pie for the holidays
• Festive pecan pie cookie twist
• Easy pecan pie muffins
• Salted maple pecan pie bars
• Caramel apple cheesecake bars
• Homemade apple fritters with cider glaze

Conclusion

Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie is more than dessert; it’s a centerpiece for holiday gatherings. With its gooey fudge center, nutty crunch, and easy prep, it’s the kind of recipe that wins hearts at the first bite. Whether you serve it warm with ice cream or chilled for a late-night treat, it’s a guaranteed holiday hit. For more dessert inspiration, you can always peek at my Pinterest board. Bake one for your table this season and watch it disappear slice by slice.

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