If you’re searching for a truly decadent Southern dessert that balances nutty crunch with silky chocolate indulgence, Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie is the answer. This rich, glossy pie is a showstopper that brings together toasted pecans, bittersweet chocolate, and a custardy filling in a buttery crust. Every bite combines that classic Texas pecan pie tradition with a dreamy chocolate upgrade, making it just as irresistible at a casual weeknight meal or a festive holiday gathering.

Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie has an important role to play, from building the decadent, sweet filling to adding those signature crunchy pecan layers. You’ll be amazed at how a handful of simple pantry staples can transform into such a spectacular pie!

Store-bought pie crust (or homemade): A quick foundation for your pie, saving you time without sacrificing flavor—homemade is a treat, but store-bought works beautifully!
Egg white, lightly beaten: Brushing the crust with egg white acts as a barrier and keeps the bottom crisp under the gooey filling.
Dark chocolate chips (semi-sweet or bittersweet): Adds rich, luscious chocolate flavor to the classic pecan pie profile.
Large eggs: These bind the filling together, giving your pie its signature custardy texture.
Light corn syrup: Sweetens and gives that chewy, glossy finish typical of Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie.
Granulated sugar: Boosts sweetness and helps the filling set to perfection.
Unsalted butter, melted: Lends luscious richness and helps meld the chocolate, pecans, and syrupy base.
Vanilla extract: A splash adds aromatic warmth and rounds out all the other flavors.
Salt: Just a pinch is the secret to heightening all the sweet and nutty notes.
Pecan halves, toasted: The star of the show, offering a toasty crunch and iconic Texas flair!

How to Make Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie

Step 1: Prep Your Pie Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Gently lay your pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish, taking a moment to press it into the edges and give that border a charming crimp. This first step sets the stage for everything delicious to follow.

Step 2: Toast the Pecans

Spread the pecan halves on a baking sheet and pop them in the oven for 8 to 10 minutes. Toasting brings out their warm, buttery flavor and enhances the signature crunch that sets Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie apart. Let them cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 3: Melt the Chocolate

Pour the dark chocolate chips into a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each round until melted and silky smooth. Set aside and allow the chocolate to cool slightly—this helps it blend flawlessly into your custard without scrambling the eggs.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, light corn syrup, granulated sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until completely smooth. Next, stir in the melted chocolate, pouring slowly and mixing continually for a beautifully unified, glossy filling.

Step 5: Assemble the Pie

Brush the bottom and sides of your pie crust with the beaten egg white—this extra touch keeps the crust crisp. Scatter half of your toasted pecans over the base, then pour in the chocolate filling. For a picture-perfect finish, arrange the rest of the pecans in a decorative pattern over the top.

Step 6: Bake

Slide the pie into the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, until the edges are set and the center has just a gentle jiggle. If you notice your crust is browning too fast, loosely cover the edges with foil or use a pie shield. This patience will yield the perfect texture every time!

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Set the freshly baked Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie on a wire rack and let it cool completely before slicing. This waiting period helps the filling set up, making those slices beautifully clean—plus, the flavors deepen as it rests. Serve at room temperature or chilled, with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you like.

How to Serve Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie

Garnishes

A cloud of freshly whipped cream or a silky scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a dreamy contrast to the rich filling. For extra dazzle, try a sprinkle of chocolate shavings or even a light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving.

Side Dishes

Keep things Southern-casual and festive with sides that let the Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie shine. Serve it after a savory roast, alongside hot coffee, or paired with a glass of cold milk. Both children and adults will be delighted with how the dessert rounds out any meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the pie into generous wedges and serve on colorful plates, or get playful and cut into bars for a buffet or picnic. Individual mini-pies baked in ramekins make for a show-stealing dinner party finale, delivering Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie in adorable personal portions!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cooled, simply cover your Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and tasty for up to four days—making it perfect for prepping ahead of time for holidays or celebrations.

Freezing

Leftover slices or even the entire pie can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of foil, then tucked into the freezer for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best texture, and you’ll have a homemade treat at the ready whenever cravings strike.

Reheating

To rewarm, place individual slices (or the whole pie) in a 300°F oven for about 10-15 minutes. This refreshes the flavor and texture, especially if you’re aiming for that just-baked, melty chocolate experience. Cover loosely with foil to prevent over-browning during reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a homemade pie crust instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! A homemade crust gives your Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie a from-scratch flair, and you can use your favorite family recipe or a tried-and-true buttery crust as the base. Just be sure to chill the crust before filling for the best results.

What’s the secret to preventing a soggy bottom?

Brushing the pie crust with lightly beaten egg white before filling is a simple but essential trick. It forms a protective barrier that helps keep the crust crisp under the luscious chocolate-pecan filling.

Is it better to serve this pie at room temperature or chilled?

Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie is delicious either way! At room temperature, the filling is silky and the flavors are bold. When chilled, the texture is firmer (almost like a chewy brownie) and perfect for neat slices—try both and pick your favorite.

Can I substitute maple syrup for corn syrup?

While light corn syrup gives the pie its signature smooth texture, you can swap in pure maple syrup for a deeper, caramel-like sweetness. Just note that the filling might set up with a slightly different consistency.

What kind of chocolate works best?

Go for semi-sweet or bittersweet dark chocolate chips to recreate the classic Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie flavor. Milk chocolate can work in a pinch, but the pie will be milder and less rich—so stick with dark for that authentic, decadent finish.

Final Thoughts

Every celebration (or weeknight craving) becomes a little more special with a homemade Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie on the table. The combination of velvety chocolate, crispy pecans, and a flaky crust is pure Southern comfort—you simply have to try it and share the joy with those you love!