As I pulled the luscious Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie from the oven, the warm aroma of melted chocolate and toasted nuts enveloped my kitchen like a cozy hug. This delightful dessert puts a modern twist on a timeless classic, combining buttery pecans with a rich, velvety chocolate filling that will make your taste buds dance. Not only is this pie a showstopper for holiday gatherings and cozy family dinners, but it’s also a breeze to whip up—perfect for both seasoned bakers and those navigating their culinary journey. Enhanced with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, this pie achieves the ideal balance of sweetness and crunch that keeps everyone reaching for seconds. Are you ready to indulge in a slice of heaven? Let’s dive into the details! Why is this pie a must-try? Decadent flavors: The combination of rich dark chocolate and buttery pecans creates a symphony of taste that will tantalize your palate. Easy to make: Even if you’re a beginner, this recipe is straightforward, ensuring a delicious outcome every time. Versatile option: You can easily swap ingredients to fit dietary preferences, like using a gluten-free crust for a wider appeal. Impressive dessert: Perfect for gatherings, this pie will wow your family and friends, leaving them begging for the recipe. Time-saving treat: With make-ahead options, you can prepare it in advance, allowing you more time to enjoy your guests. Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie Ingredients For the Filling Pecan Nuts – These add delightful crunch and nutty flavor; substitute with walnuts if desired. Dark Chocolate Chips (60-70% cacao) – They provide a rich, slightly bitter contrast; using chocolate with higher cacao content deepens flavor in the Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie. Brown Sugar & Corn Syrup – This blend sweetens and binds the filling; maple syrup can replace corn syrup for a distinct flavor twist. Eggs – Serving as a binding agent, they create a custard-like filling; ensure they are at room temperature for even mixing. Melted Butter – This adds richness and flavor; consider using coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative. Vanilla Extract – This enhances the overall flavor; pure vanilla yields the best results. Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice to the filling; nutmeg can be used as a complementary flavor. Flaky Sea Salt – This balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor; opt for Maldon or fleur de sel for the best finish. For the Pie Crust All-purpose Flour – This forms the base of your crust; gluten-free flour can be used for a gluten-free option. Salt – A pinch enhances the crust’s flavor. Cold Butter – Keeps your crust flaky and tender; ensure it’s cold and cut into small cubes before incorporating. Ice Water – This helps form the dough without melting the butter; only use as needed to bind the ingredients. Feel free to gather fresh ingredients for this scrumptious Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie that your family will love! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust Begin by making your favorite homemade pie crust, yielding enough for two crusts. Roll your dough to about 12 inches in diameter, ensuring an even thickness. Gently fit it into a 9-inch pie dish without prebaking, and let it rest while you prepare the filling for your Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie. Step 2: Layer Ingredients Spread the pecan nuts evenly across the bottom of the prepared crust, making sure to cover the surface well. Next, sprinkle the rich dark chocolate chips over the pecans, creating a delightful base for your filling. This layering will ensure every bite of your pie is bursting with flavor and texture. Step 3: Mix Filling In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, salt, and cinnamon until smooth and well combined. This filling should be homogenous with a slight froth on top. Once mixed, pour the filling gently over the layered pecans and chocolate, ensuring everything is evenly coated for your Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie. Step 4: Bake the Pie Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and carefully place the pie on the lower third rack to promote even cooking. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes, checking after 20 minutes to protect the crust’s edges, if necessary. You’ll know the pie is done when the center jiggles slightly, and the top has turned a lovely golden brown. Step 5: Cool and Serve Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for at least an hour. This cooling period is essential for the filling to set properly. Before serving, sprinkle a touch of flaky sea salt on top for a delightful contrast to the sweetness, and consider pairing it with a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. Expert Tips for Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie Choose Quality Chocolate: Use high-quality dark chocolate (60-70% cacao) for the best flavor; cheap chocolate can lead to a less impressive Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie experience. Egg Temperature Matters: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature before mixing; this helps create a smooth filling and aids in even baking. Protect the Crust: Use a pie crust shield or aluminum foil around the edges while baking to prevent over-browning, which can ruin the overall look and taste. Cool Completely: Allow the pie to cool for at least an hour before slicing; this helps the filling set and prevents a runny Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie. Flavor Variations: Experiment by adding a splash of bourbon or vanilla extract to the filling for a delightful depth of flavor that enhances the nutty chocolate experience. How to Store and Freeze Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie Room Temperature: Keep the pie at room temperature for up to 1-2 days, covered lightly with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel to maintain its delightful flavors. Fridge: Store the pie in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days; cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh and protect the texture of the Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooled pie tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil; it can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or warm the whole pie in a 350°F (177°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, just until heated through. Variations & Substitutions for Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie Feel free to get creative with this delightful pie! Customization can enhance flavors and cater to various dietary preferences. Dairy-Free: Substitute melted butter with coconut oil for a rich, dairy-free alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor. You’ll maintain that luscious texture while ensuring it’s suitable for anyone avoiding dairy. Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free flour blend in the pie crust. It won’t compromise the flaky texture, making the pie accessible to those with gluten sensitivities. Nutty Twist: Use a mix of nuts like almonds or hazelnuts instead of pecans for a different flavor palette. The natural oils in these nuts will add a new layer of richness. Spice it Up: Amp up the warmth by adding a teaspoon of nutmeg or a hint of ginger to the filling. This will create a delightful aroma and elevate the flavor profile to new heights. Bourbon Boost: Add a splash of bourbon to the filling for a deeper, more complex flavor. The alcohol will cook off during baking, leaving behind a hint of warmth that perfectly complements the chocolate. Chocolate Lovers’ Delight: Use a mix of dark and white chocolate chips for a decadent look and sweet contrast in the pie. The creamy white chocolate adds a wonderful creaminess! Caramel Swirl: Drizzle caramel sauce into the filling before baking for a sweet, gooey surprise with each bite. The combination of chocolate, nuts, and caramel is simply divine. Savory Touch: A sprinkle of sea salt on top not only enhances sweetness but brings a gourmet touch to your pie. For an even more sophisticated flair, try rosemary-infused sea salt for a unique twist. Feel free to explore these variations and find your favorite! Be sure to check out our other delightful recipes for even more inspiration; you’ll never run out of delicious ideas. What to Serve with Irresistible Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie Indulging in a slice of this delightful dessert opens the door to a world of delicious pairings that elevate your dining experience. Fresh Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly whipped cream adds a luscious touch, balancing the pie’s richness. Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: The creamy, cool ice cream counteracts the warm pie, creating a comforting contrast that’s hard to resist. Salted Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm salted caramel over each slice enhances the chocolate and pecan flavors beautifully. Espresso Coffee: A hot cup of robust espresso adds depth, making each bite even more flavorful and sophisticated. Spiced Apple Compote: The warmth of spiced apples brings a fruity brightness that complements the rich chocolate perfectly. Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted dark chocolate on top plays up the chocolate intensity, making it even more decadent. Chardonnay or Port Wine: A chilled Chardonnay harmonizes the flavors, while a glass of port adds a sweet complexity, perfect for dessert. Pecan Pralines: These crunchy, sweet treats echo the nutty flavor of the pie, enhancing the overall experience with their delightful texture. Make Ahead Options These Dark Chocolate Pecan Pies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time while creating a memorable dessert! You can prepare the pie crust up to 24 hours in advance; simply roll it and fit it into the pie dish, then wrap it tightly and refrigerate to maintain its flakiness. Additionally, you can mix the filling ingredients and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—this way, the flavors meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply layer the pecans and dark chocolate chips in the crust, pour over the chilled filling, and bake as directed. Rest assured, your Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie will still be just as delicious and delightful! Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie Recipe FAQs How can I select the best pecans for this pie? Absolutely! Look for pecans that are plump and free from dark spots or mold, as these indicate freshness. You want nuts that have a pleasant aroma and a rich, buttery flavor. If you can, buy them in bulk from a reputable source to ensure quality. What’s the best way to store Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie? You can keep your Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie at room temperature for 1-2 days, as long as it’s covered lightly with plastic wrap. For extended freshness, store in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Just make sure it’s tightly covered to maintain the pie’s wonderful texture. Can I freeze the Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie? If so, how? Absolutely! To freeze, first let the pie cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To serve, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. If you prefer it warm, you can reheat it gently in a low oven or microwave. What if my filling is too runny after baking? If you find your filling is runny, it might be due to insufficient baking time or not allowing it to cool completely. In the future, make sure you’re baking until the center jiggles slightly but does not look liquidy. Cooling it for at least an hour is essential for setting the filling. Next time, consider using slightly less corn syrup if you’re looking for a firmer texture. Is the Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie safe for people with nut allergies? This pie, as it stands, is not suitable for individuals with nut allergies since pecans are a key ingredient. However, you can experiment with nut-free options, such as using seeds like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds, but note that the texture and flavor will differ. Always check with anyone you’re serving this pie to ensure it meets their dietary needs. Decadent Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie You Must Try Today Indulge in this Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie, featuring a rich chocolate filling and buttery pecans for a delightful dessert experience. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 50 minutes minsCooling Time 1 hour hrTotal Time 2 hours hrs 10 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Filling1 cup Pecan Nuts Substitute with walnuts if desired.1 cup Dark Chocolate Chips 60-70% cacao1 cup Brown Sugar1/2 cup Corn Syrup Maple syrup can replace for a distinct flavor.3 large Eggs Ensure at room temperature.1/4 cup Melted Butter Coconut oil can be used for dairy-free.1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Pure vanilla yields the best results.1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon Nutmeg can be a complementary flavor.1 teaspoon Flaky Sea Salt Opt for Maldon or fleur de sel.For the Pie Crust1 cup All-purpose Flour Gluten-free flour can be used.1/4 teaspoon Salt A pinch enhances flavor.1/2 cup Cold Butter Cut into small cubes.3-4 tablespoons Ice Water Use as needed to form the dough. Equipment 9-inch pie dishMixing BowlWhiskrolling pinOven Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPrepare the Pie Crust: Make your favorite homemade pie crust, roll the dough to 12 inches, fit into a 9-inch pie dish without prebaking.Layer Ingredients: Spread pecan nuts at the bottom, sprinkle dark chocolate chips over the pecans.Mix Filling: Whisk together eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla, salt, and cinnamon until smooth; pour mixture over layered ingredients.Bake the Pie: Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C), bake for 40-50 minutes, checking after 20 minutes to protect the crust edges.Cool and Serve: Let the pie cool on a wire rack for at least an hour; sprinkle with flaky sea salt before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 37gProtein: 4gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 300IUCalcium: 40mgIron: 2mg NotesFor best results, use high-quality chocolate and ensure eggs are at room temperature before mixing. Protect the crust edges while baking to avoid over-browning. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
