Chocolate Fudge Pecan Pie Recipe

If you have a sweet tooth craving that combines rich chocolate with the irresistible crunch of pecans, then this Chocolate Fudge Pecan Pie Recipe is about to become your new favorite dessert. Bursting with deep, fudgy chocolate flavor and studded with toasted pecans, this pie strikes the perfect balance between gooey and nutty, making it a standout at any gathering. Whether you’re a dessert pro or a curious home baker, this recipe delivers a stunning homemade pie that tastes like it came from your favorite bakery, yet it’s surprisingly simple to make.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to a pie that’s both beautifully textured and full of flavor. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of crumbly crust, rich filling, and toasty pecan topping.

• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour: The base for your buttery pie crust, creating that tender, flaky texture you love.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, making the sweetness and chocolate really pop.
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed: Vital for a flaky crust with a rich mouthfeel.
• 2-4 tablespoons ice water: Helps bring the dough together without warming the butter.
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melts into creamy fudgy goodness that defines this pie.
• ½ cup unsalted butter: Adds luxurious richness to the chocolate filling.
• 3 large eggs: Binds the filling together while adding a silky texture.
• 1 cup light corn syrup: Sweetens and gives the filling its smooth, custard-like consistency.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Balances the chocolate’s bitterness with a gentle sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Deepens the overall flavor with warm, floral notes.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: A small pinch brightens the filling’s flavors.
• 2 cups pecan halves: Provides that signature crunchy, buttery pecan bite to complement the fudge.

How to Make Chocolate Fudge Pecan Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by pulsing the flour and salt in a food processor until combined. Add the cold, cubed butter and pulse just until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. This delicate handling ensures your crust will stay flaky. Gradually add ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough barely comes together. Overworking here can make the crust tough, so keep it light.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

Turn out the dough onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a disk. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out, then pop it into the fridge for at least an hour. This resting period lets the gluten relax and the fats firm up — essential for that perfect flaky texture.

Step 3: Roll and Fit the Crust

Once chilled, roll the dough out to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Press it gently into the dish and trim any extra dough hanging over the edges. The even thickness ensures it bakes uniformly without burning.

Step 4: Make the Chocolate Filling

In a small saucepan, combine the butter and semi-sweet chocolate chips over low heat. Stir constantly until completely melted and smooth. Remove from heat and let this luscious mix cool slightly while you prepare the rest of the filling.

Step 5: Mix Wet Ingredients

Whisk together eggs, corn syrup, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt in a bowl. Slowly drizzle in the melted chocolate and butter mixture, whisking to blend everything into a beautifully silky custard base for your pie.

Step 6: Assemble the Pie

Pour the rich chocolate filling into the prepared pie crust. Scatter the pecan halves evenly on top. This layering ensures every slice offers the perfect nutty crunch with each bite of fudge.

Step 7: Bake Until Set

Bake the pie in a preheated 350 degree Fahrenheit oven for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the filling is firm to the touch and the surface develops a subtle crackled look. This visual cue means the filling is set but still wonderfully gooey inside.

Step 8: Cool Completely

Remove the pie from the oven and set it aside to cool. Cooling lets the filling finish firming up, making slicing easier and the flavors even more concentrated.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

This pie shines on its own but also pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The cool creaminess balances the richness perfectly and ends every bite in pure bliss.

How to Serve Chocolate Fudge Pecan Pie Recipe

Garnishes

While the pie is stunning as is, consider adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top before serving to enhance the chocolate and pecan flavors. Fresh mint leaves or a drizzle of caramel sauce can add a lovely contrast and make your presentation elegant.

Side Dishes

This decadent pie pairs wonderfully with light, fresh side dishes if you’re planning a full meal. Think crisp salads or roasted vegetables to complement without overwhelming. For dessert accompaniments, vanilla ice cream or a simple dollop of freshly whipped cream are classic choices that your guests will adore.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, slice the pie into mini servings and place each on a small dessert plate with a pecan on top. You could also turn slices into warm pie à la mode bites by adding a drizzle of hot fudge or a sprinkle of toasted coconut, elevating your Chocolate Fudge Pecan Pie Recipe experience to an entirely new level.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover pie should be covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. Keep it refrigerated where it will stay fresh for up to four days. This way, every slice remains moist and flavorful.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later or prepare ahead for an event, this pie freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. It will keep for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

To regain that just-baked warmth, reheat pie slices gently in a warm oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep the crust crisp instead of soggy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen pecans for this pie?

Absolutely, frozen pecans work just fine. Just thaw them completely and pat dry before adding to avoid any excess moisture in the filling.

Is there a way to make the crust gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, but make sure it’s a blend designed for pastries to maintain that flaky texture. Adding a bit of xanthan gum can also help with structure.

What can I substitute for corn syrup in this recipe?

Light corn syrup is crucial for the texture here, but you can replace it with a homemade simple syrup or honey. Keep in mind the flavor will change slightly and the filling might be a little less smooth.

Can I prepare the pie crust a day in advance?

Yes! Making the crust the day before actually enhances its flavor and texture. Just wrap it tightly and keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to roll it out and bake.

How do I know when the pie is fully baked?

The pie is ready when the filling is firm to the touch and the top has slight cracks. A gentle jiggle in the center is okay—the filling will continue to set as it cools.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something so magical about this Chocolate Fudge Pecan Pie Recipe that makes it an instant classic in my book. Rich chocolate, buttery pecans, and a homemade crust come together to create moments of pure joy with every bite. I encourage you to try this recipe at home, share it with those you love, and maybe even keep a slice just for yourself because this pie is that good!

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