Decadent Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie: 1 Amazing Recipe

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Dark chocolate pecan pie has always been my go-to for special occasions, and this recipe for a rich dark chocolate pecan pie is truly something special. I remember the first time I made this homemade dark chocolate pecan pie; the aroma of melting chocolate and toasted pecans filled my kitchen, promising pure indulgence. The combination of the classic, buttery pie crust with the deep, slightly bitter notes of dark chocolate and the sweet, crunchy pecans is simply divine. It’s a dessert that always brings smiles and happy sighs around the table. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie

• The taste is an incredible fusion of sweet, nutty pecans and deep, decadent dark chocolate.
• It’s surprisingly quick to prepare, making it an easy dark chocolate pecan pie for any occasion.
• While indulgent, the dark chocolate offers antioxidants, adding a bit of goodness to this treat. You can learn more about the health benefits of dark chocolate.
• It’s a budget-friendly way to impress guests, using common pantry staples for a show-stopping dessert.
• This chocolate pecan pie with dark chocolate is a guaranteed family favorite that everyone will adore.
• The rich, gooey texture makes every bite an utterly satisfying experience.
• This chocolate pecan pie with dark chocolate is perfect for holidays, birthdays, or just because.

Ingredients for Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to creating the most amazing dark chocolate pecan pie filling recipe.

• 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust – a buttery, flaky crust is key for this decadent dessert.
• 1 cup chopped pecans – these provide that classic nutty crunch and flavor.
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar – for sweetness and structure in the filling.
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed – adds moisture and a caramel-like depth of flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – a touch of vanilla rounds out the rich chocolate and pecan notes.
• 3 large eggs, lightly beaten – these bind everything together and create that signature gooey texture.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted – provides richness and moisture to the pie filling.
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips – these melt into pockets of intense chocolatey goodness, making it a true dark chocolate pecan pie.

How to Make Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This initial heat is crucial for setting the crust and filling. Placing your unbaked pie crust on a baking sheet makes it easier to transfer in and out of the oven and catches any potential drips, keeping your oven clean.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine your chopped pecans, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and salt. This dry mixture forms the base of our delicious filling. Mixing these together ensures the sugars are evenly distributed amongst the nuts, setting the stage for a perfectly sweet and nutty bite in every slice of this easy dark chocolate pecan pie.
3. Step 3: Stir in the vanilla extract and the lightly beaten eggs. The eggs are essential for binding all the ingredients together, creating that wonderfully gooey texture we all love in a classic pecan pie, enhanced with chocolate.
4. Step 4: Pour in the melted unsalted butter and mix until everything is well combined. The butter adds a luxurious richness and helps create a smooth, cohesive filling.
5. Step 5: Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips. Be careful not to overmix at this stage; you want those lovely pockets of melted chocolate throughout the pie. This is where the magic happens, transforming a standard pecan pie into a decadent treat.

6. Step 6: Pour the rich pecan pie filling into the unbaked pie crust. Ensure it’s spread evenly. This step is straightforward, making this an easy dark chocolate pecan pie to assemble.
7. Step 7: Bake for 40-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the crust is golden brown and the center is set but still has a slight wobble, indicating that lovely gooeyness. Keep an eye on it to prevent overbaking.
8. Step 8: Once baked, let the dark chocolate pecan pie cool completely on a wire rack. This resting period is vital for the filling to fully set, making it easier to slice and serve. Patience here is key for the perfect slice of this easy dark chocolate pecan pie.

Pro Tips for the Best Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie

Elevate your pie-making game with these tried-and-true tips for a truly exceptional dark chocolate pecan pie.

• For an extra-rich flavor, use a high-quality dark chocolate with at least 60% cacao content.
• Don’t overbake! A slight wobble in the center means it will be perfectly gooey when cooled.
• Blind-baking the crust for 10-15 minutes before adding the filling can prevent a soggy bottom. You can find detailed instructions on how to blind-bake a pie crust.
• If your crust starts browning too quickly, tent it loosely with aluminum foil.

What’s the secret to perfect Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie?

The key to a perfect, gooey dark chocolate pecan pie is not overbaking. The filling will continue to set as it cools, so a slight jiggle in the center is exactly what you want.

Can I make Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the entire pie a day in advance. Let it cool completely, then cover and store it at room temperature. This makes serving a breeze for any gathering. For more tips on making desserts ahead, check out our contact page for inquiries.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie?

A common pitfall is overbaking, which leads to a dry pie. Resist the urge to bake until the center is rock solid. Also, ensure your butter is fully melted, not just softened, for the best filling consistency.

Best Ways to Serve Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie

This decadent dessert is wonderful on its own, but a few simple additions can take it to the next level. Serving it warm is always a treat, especially when paired with a scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The contrast in temperatures and textures is simply divine. For those who appreciate the foundation of a great pie, remember that the best pie crust for dark chocolate pecan pie is one that’s buttery and flaky, providing a perfect base for the rich filling. You can also sprinkle a few extra chopped pecans or chocolate shavings on top for an elegant presentation that highlights the ingredients. Visit our homepage for more delicious recipes.

Nutrition Facts for Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie

This rich dark chocolate pecan pie is a delightful indulgence. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving:

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 35g
• Sodium: 150mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information on our data sources, please see our privacy policy.

How to Store and Reheat Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie

Proper storage ensures your delicious dark chocolate pecan pie stays fresh and tasty. Once your pie has completely cooled on a wire rack, you can store it. For short-term enjoyment, cover the pie loosely with plastic wrap or foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to keep it longer, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for 3-4 days. For long-term preservation, this pie freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. This is a fantastic way to have homemade pie ready whenever a craving strikes. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice from the fridge or freezer, reheating is simple. For refrigerated pie, a quick 15-20 minutes in a 350°F (175°C) oven should warm it through. For frozen slices, thaw overnight in the refrigerator first, then reheat as you would a refrigerated slice. Learn more about our affiliate disclaimer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie

What is dark chocolate pecan pie?

A dark chocolate pecan pie is a delightful twist on the classic Southern dessert. It incorporates rich, melted dark chocolate or dark chocolate chips into the traditional pecan pie filling, adding a layer of deep, slightly bitter complexity that beautifully complements the sweet, nutty flavors. This combination creates a truly decadent experience that many find irresistible.

Why is dark chocolate pecan pie popular?

This pie is popular because it merges two beloved flavors: the comforting sweetness of pecan pie and the sophisticated intensity of dark chocolate. The contrast between the nutty, caramel-like filling and the deep chocolate notes offers a more complex and satisfying dessert. It’s a decadent treat that feels both familiar and exciting, making it a favorite for holidays and special gatherings. You can read more about our about me page.

Can I make a vegan dark chocolate pecan pie?

Absolutely! You can easily adapt this recipe to be vegan. Use a vegan pie crust, replace the butter with vegan butter or coconut oil, and ensure your dark chocolate chips are dairy-free. For the eggs, a common substitution is a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) or a commercial egg replacer. The result is a delicious plant-based version of this pie. For more information on data privacy, please refer to our GDPR policy.

How do I get a nice, shiny finish on my dark chocolate pecan pie?

For a beautiful, glossy finish, you can brush the top of the pie with a simple glaze after it’s baked and slightly cooled. A mixture of corn syrup and a little water, heated gently, works wonderfully. Alternatively, you can melt a few extra dark chocolate chips with a teaspoon of coconut oil and drizzle that over the top.

Variations of Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic, you might want to explore some exciting variations of this beloved dessert. For those with dietary needs, a dairy-free dark chocolate pecan pie is simple to achieve by using dairy-free butter and chocolate chips. If you’re looking for a completely plant-based option, you can create a delicious vegan dark chocolate pecan pie by swapping out the eggs for a flax egg and using vegan butter. You could also experiment with different types of chocolate, like milk chocolate for a sweeter profile or bittersweet chocolate for an even more intense flavor. Another fun twist is adding a pinch of cinnamon or a touch of espresso powder to the filling to deepen the chocolate notes.

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