Chocolate Chunk Pecan Pie is one of those desserts that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Each bite is a delightful balance of rich, buttery pecans and gooey chocolate. Imagine the crunch of the nuts combined with a smooth chocolatey filling, wrapped up in a perfectly baked crust. It’s truly a dessert that makes any occasion special. Whether you’re making it for Thanksgiving, a holiday gathering, or just a cozy weekend treat, this pie brings joy to everyone who gets a slice. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes? Simply heavenly! So grab your apron and let’s create a sweet masterpiece together!
Why This Recipe Works
Chocolate Chunk Pecan Pie combines the rich, buttery flavor of toasted pecans with gooey chocolate chunks, resulting in a deliciously decadent dessert. The balance of textures—the crunch of the nuts, the creamy filling, and the crisp crust—creates an irresistible experience. This recipe pulls together simple ingredients but explodes with flavor. The pecans get toasted to perfection, which enhances their nuttiness, while the chocolate adds a sweet, creamy touch. Together in the pie, they create a marvelous dish that speaks to both the heart and the palate.
Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Chunk Pecan Pie
This dessert is not just about flavor; it’s about the joy of baking and sharing a homemade treat with friends and family. Picture yourself gathering around a table, the pie placed in the center, everyone eager for a slice. Perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions, this Chocolate Chunk Pecan Pie will leave everyone asking for seconds. The warmth of the dessert matches the warmth of the memories made while enjoying it. So not only do you get a delectable treat, but you also create bonds and laughter that last far beyond the last crumb.
Ingredients
To whip up this delightful pie, you will need:
- 1 unbaked pie crust
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup corn syrup
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups roasted pecans
- 6 ounces chocolate chunks
These ingredients are easy to find and bring together beautifully in this rich dessert.
Preparing Your Chocolate Chunk Pecan Pie
Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your pie cooks evenly from the moment it goes in. A properly heated oven makes all the difference in achieving that perfect texture!
Prepare the Pie Crust
Roll out your pie crust and gently place it in a 9-inch pie plate. Be easy as you do this; you don’t want to tear the crust. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges and crimp to form a decorative edge. Not only does this look nice, but it also adds a special touch to your presentation.
Whisk Together the Filling
Now for the fun part! In a medium bowl, combine the eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, salt, and vanilla extract. Use a wire whisk to mix until the ingredients are fully blended, creating a smooth filling that looks and smells amazing.
Assemble the Pie
Evenly distribute the roasted pecans and chocolate chunks over the bottom of the prepared pie crust. The sight of chocolate and nuts peeking through will surely excite your taste buds! Carefully pour the filling mixture over the pecans and chocolate, ensuring they are well coated. This step is crucial for a luscious texture throughout.
Bake the Pie
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the cooking time can vary depending on the size of your pie dish. The pie is done when the center is set and slightly puffed—this is key to a perfect Chocolate Chunk Pecan Pie!
Cool and Chill
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. Patience is a virtue here; letting it cool helps it set. For the best texture and flavor, refrigerate the pie until serving. It may be hard to wait, but trust me, it’s worth it.
Serving Suggestions
When you’re ready to serve your Chocolate Chunk Pecan Pie, add a dollop of whipped cream or a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. These choices not only enhance the flavor but also offer a delightful contrast. For an extra touch of sophistication, sprinkle a little sea salt on top to elevate all those beautiful flavors.
Tips for Success
To ensure your Chocolate Chunk Pecan Pie turns out fantastic:
- Use fresh, high-quality chocolate chunks for maximum flavor.
- Ensure your pecans are roasted to bring out their rich, nutty taste.
- Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing to guarantee nice, clean cuts.
These simple tips can transform a good pie into a great one!
Variations
Feel free to get creative! Here are a few variations:
- Add a splash of bourbon or a hint of espresso to the filling for an adult twist.
- Substitute walnuts or almonds in place of pecans for a different nutty flavor.
- Experiment by adding a layer of caramel sauce before pouring the filling for additional sweetness.
These options can switch things up and keep this pie feeling fresh and exciting!
Storage Tips
If you happen to have leftovers (though it’s unlikely), store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To enjoy later, consider reheating individual slices in the microwave for a warm dessert that reignites those delicious flavors.
Pairing Ideas
Pair your Chocolate Chunk Pecan Pie with a robust cup of coffee or rich hot chocolate. For a festive touch, consider serving alongside spiced apple cider. These beverages complement the pie’s richness and make for a perfect pairing.
FAQs
1. Can I freeze Chocolate Chunk Pecan Pie?
Yes, you can freeze it after it has cooled completely. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. This way, you can save some for a future treat!
2. How do I know when my pie is done baking?
The pie is ready when the center is slightly puffed and set. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
3. Can I make the filling in advance?
Yes, you can whisk the filling ingredients together a day in advance. Just remember to give it a good stir before pouring it into the pie. This can save you time on baking day.
4. What can I use if I don’t have corn syrup?
You can substitute corn syrup with maple syrup or honey. Keep in mind this will slightly alter the flavor, but it can still be delicious!
5. Is it necessary to refrigerate the pie?
Yes, refrigerating helps to set the filling and maintain quality after baking. It also makes the pie easier to slice.
Chocolate Chunk Pecan Pie is the ultimate treat that brings together warmth, flavors, and a loving touch of home baking. Every bite is filled with the delightful combination of rich chocolate and crunchy pecans, all wrapped in a perfectly baked crust. Enjoy sharing this pie with loved ones, and relish the satisfied smiles it will bring! Each slice promises to create memorable moments, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
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Chocolate Chunk Pecan Pie
This Chocolate Chunk Pecan Pie combines buttery pecans and rich chocolate for a delectable dessert that’s sure to impress. Perfect for gatherings or cozy weekends.
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 unbaked pie crust
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup corn syrup
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups roasted pecans
- 6 ounces chocolate chunks
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll out the pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie plate, trimming the edges.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, salt, and vanilla until smooth.
- Spread roasted pecans and chocolate chunks in the crust, then pour the filling over them.
- Bake for 45 to 55 minutes until the center is set and puffed.
- Cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours, then refrigerate before serving.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
Use high-quality chocolate chunks for the best flavor.
Roast pecans to enhance their nutty taste.
Allow the pie to cool completely for clean slicing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 to 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25
- Sodium: 200
- Fat: 20
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Unsaturated Fat: 15
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 40
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 5
- Cholesterol: 60
