Pecan Pie With Chocolate is a match made in dessert heaven. This rich, nutty classic gets an upgrade with the addition of dark, bittersweet chocolate, creating a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this guide will walk you through creating a pecan pie with chocolate that is sure to impress.
Table Of Contents
Why Add Chocolate to Pecan Pie?
The combination of pecans and chocolate is a natural pairing. The slight bitterness of dark chocolate complements the sweetness of the traditional pecan pie filling, adding depth and complexity. It’s like adding a secret ingredient that elevates the entire dessert. Consider using high-quality chocolate, at least 70% cacao, for the best flavor. This will ensure the chocolate flavor doesn’t get lost amongst the other ingredients. Are you looking to add a unique twist to your holiday dessert spread? Pecan pie with chocolate is the answer.
Choosing the Right Chocolate
Selecting the right chocolate is crucial for a perfect pecan pie with chocolate. While milk chocolate can be used, it tends to be overly sweet. Dark chocolate, with its intense flavor profile, provides a beautiful contrast to the nutty pecans and sugary filling. Experiment with different types of dark chocolate – from bittersweet to semi-sweet – to find your perfect balance. This seemingly small detail can significantly impact the final result.
Sliced pecan pie with chocolate chunks on a wooden board
Ingredients for Pecan Pie with Chocolate
- 1 ½ cups pecan halves
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup light corn syrup
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup high-quality dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensure your oven rack is positioned in the center of the oven for even baking.
- Combine the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, corn syrup, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
- Add the chocolate: Gently fold in the chocolate chips or chopped chocolate until they are evenly distributed throughout the filling.
- Arrange the pecans: Spread the pecan halves evenly in the unbaked pie crust.
- Pour the filling: Carefully pour the chocolate pecan pie filling over the pecans in the crust.
- Bake: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. Keep an eye on the crust; if it starts to brown too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil.
- Cool: Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to set properly.
Pecan pie with chocolate baking in the oven
Tips for a Perfect Pecan Pie with Chocolate
- Toast the pecans: Toasting the pecans before adding them to the pie enhances their nutty flavor. Simply spread them on a baking sheet and toast in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes.
- Blind bake the crust: For a crispier crust, consider blind baking it for 10-12 minutes before adding the filling. Just as you would with a chocolate chip cookie with nuts, the nuts benefit from a bit of toasting.
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the pie will taste. Just like when you’re making a Red velvet cake with pecans, quality ingredients make a difference.
Ingredients for making pecan pie with chocolate
“Using high-quality dark chocolate is key to achieving the perfect balance of sweet and bitter in this decadent pie,” says renowned pastry chef, Amelia Dubois. She also suggests using fresh, high-quality pecans for the best flavor and texture. Much like a Chocolate chip cookie with sea salt, that touch of salt elevates the other flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Pecan pie with chocolate is delicious on its own, but you can also elevate it further with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of sea salt can add an extra touch of indulgence. This pie is also a wonderful addition to any holiday dessert table, alongside classics like pumpkin pie and apple crumble. For those who enjoy the combination of chocolate and banana, perhaps a Banana bread with chocolate chips would also be a welcomed addition.
Conclusion
Pecan pie with chocolate offers a delightful twist on a classic dessert. By following these simple steps and tips, you can create a pecan pie with chocolate that is both beautiful and delicious. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to bake a pie that will be the star of your next gathering! For those interested in exploring different pie crust options, consider reading some gluten free pie recipe reviews.
Whole pecan pie with chocolate on a cooling rack
FAQ
- Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate? Yes, you can use milk chocolate, but it will result in a sweeter pie.
- How do I prevent the crust from burning? Cover the edges of the crust with aluminum foil if they start to brown too quickly.
- Can I freeze pecan pie with chocolate? Yes, you can freeze the baked pie for up to 3 months.
- What is the best way to store leftover pie? Store leftover pie in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Can I use pre-made pie crust? Yes, using a pre-made pie crust is a convenient option.
- How long should the pie cool before serving? Let the pie cool completely, at least 2-3 hours, before slicing and serving.
- What can I substitute for corn syrup? You can use golden syrup or honey as a substitute for corn syrup.
