If you love the rich, gooey texture of pecan pie combined with a luscious hint of chocolate, you are in for a real treat with the Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie. This dessert brings together the best of Southern comfort food with a delightful twist—decadent cocoa and chocolate chips melt into a classic pecan filling, all wrapped up in a flaky, buttery crust. Each slice is packed with the perfect balance of sweet, nutty, and chocolaty flavors that will have your guests asking for seconds. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a weekend indulgence, Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie promises a memorable mouthwatering experience that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat.

Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this pie is surprisingly simple, but every component plays a crucial role in delivering the iconic flavor and texture we love. From the crispness of the crust to the sweet and nutty filling, each element adds depth and richness to the finished pie.

All-purpose flour: The foundation of our flaky pie crust that provides the perfect structure.
Salt: Enhances flavor and balances sweetness in the crust.
Unsalted butter: Cold and cubed butter is key to a tender, buttery crust that melts in your mouth.
Granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the crust for balance.
Ice water: Helps bring the dough together while keeping it cool and tender.
Light corn syrup: The classic sweetener that gives the pie its signature sticky, gooey filling.
Brown sugar: Adds rich caramel undertones that deepen the flavor complexity.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: Provides a subtle chocolate bitterness that elevates the filling.
Large eggs: Bind the filling ingredients and give it structure as it bakes.
Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and brightness to complement the chocolate and pecans.
Pecan halves: The star nuts that bring crunch and Southern charm to every bite.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melt into luscious pockets of chocolate delight throughout the filling.

How to Make Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

Start by combining the flour, salt, and sugar in a bowl to ensure even seasoning and sweetness. Cut in the cold, cubed unsalted butter with a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add ice water a little at a time, stirring just until the dough forms a cohesive disk. This careful method keeps the crust flaky and tender rather than tough. Wrap the dough in plastic and chill it for 30 minutes to relax the gluten and keep the butter cold for the best texture.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

While the dough chills, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This even baking temperature ensures that the pie crust crisps nicely while the filling cooks evenly without burning.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

Once chilled, unwrap the dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Take your time to get an even thickness for uniform baking. Carefully transfer the dough to the pie pan and gently press it into the edges. Use a fork to prick the bottom of the crust a few times—this prevents air bubbles from forming during baking, keeping your crust perfectly flat.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the light corn syrup, brown sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, and eggs until smooth and shiny. Stir in vanilla extract, then fold in the pecan halves and semi-sweet chocolate chips. The combination of chocolate and nuts makes this filling decadently rich and texturally satisfying, with chocolate melting into every bite and pecans adding that iconic crunch.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Pour the luscious filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly to make sure every slice gets a perfect balance of nuts and chocolate. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center, which will firm up as the pie cools. Keep an eye to avoid overbaking, which can dry out the filling.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack for at least two hours. This cooling time lets the filling fully set into a sliceable, luscious consistency. Cutting into the Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie too soon risks a messy slice, so patience here really pays off.

How to Serve Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can elevate your Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie to another level. Consider dolloping lightly whipped cream with a hint of vanilla, or sprinkle a few toasted pecans on top for added crunch and flair. A dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce can also bring gorgeous contrast and a bit of elegance.

Side Dishes

This pie pairs beautifully with simple sides that balance its richness. A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream provides a cool, creamy counterpoint, while a cup of strong coffee or black tea cuts through the sweetness. For a festive gathering, fresh fruit salad or a citrus sorbet can refresh the palate between bites.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to surprise your guests, serve your Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie in individual ramekins for personal portions. You can also create mini tartlets using the same filling for bite-sized indulgence. Another fun idea is to crumble leftover pie over vanilla ice cream or yogurt as a crunchy topping packed with flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your pie, wrap any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Refrigeration is best to maintain the texture of the filling and prevent the crust from becoming soggy. Properly stored, your Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie will stay delicious for up to 4 days.

Freezing

You can freeze this pie whole or in slices for longer storage. Wrap it generously with plastic wrap and then foil to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to indulge again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Freezing may change the texture of the crust slightly, but the flavors will remain just as delightful.

Reheating

To reheat, warm individual slices gently in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or place the whole pie in a preheated 325°F oven for about 10-15 minutes. This will revive that freshly baked feeling, warming the filling without drying out the crust.

FAQs

Can I use a store-bought pie crust for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought crusts can save time and still taste great. Just be sure to follow baking instructions carefully to ensure the pie crust cooks fully and doesn’t get soggy underneath the rich filling.

What can I substitute for light corn syrup?

If light corn syrup isn’t available, you can use golden syrup, honey, or a mixture of sugar and water boiled to a syrupy consistency. Keep in mind that some substitutes will alter the final sweetness and texture slightly.

How do I know when my Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie is done baking?

Look for a filling that is mostly set but still has a tiny jiggle in the center when gently shaken. The top may look firm but should not crack. The edges of the crust should be golden brown when it’s complete.

Can I make this pie ahead of time for a party?

Definitely! Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie actually tastes better the next day once the flavors meld and the filling sets fully. Make it a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge until serving.

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

You can experiment with a gluten-free pie crust made from almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend. Just be aware that the texture of the crust will differ from traditional all-purpose flour crust but the filling remains the same and just as delicious.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie—it’s more than just a dessert, it’s a celebration of flavor and tradition with a hint of chocolaty surprise. Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself on a cozy night in, this pie delivers joy in every bite. I encourage you to try making it at home and experience the delight of that perfect slice melting on your tongue. Trust me, once you’ve had a taste, this will become one of your favorite go-to recipes for gatherings or any day that calls for a little sweet magic.