Are you ready to elevate your pie game? This Chocolate Pecan Pie recipe, infused with rich cocoa powder, takes the classic pecan pie to a whole new level of deliciousness. Forget everything you thought you knew about pecan pie – this recipe delivers a decadent, intensely chocolatey experience that's surprisingly easy to make. Perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or simply a cozy night in, this recipe is guaranteed to become a new family favorite. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a delicious dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups pecan halves
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 large egg yolk
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your pie bakes evenly.
- Generously butter a 9-inch pie plate. This will prevent sticking.
Make the Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine the pecans, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Mix well to coat the pecans evenly. This step is crucial for a perfectly balanced flavor.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, egg yolk, corn syrup, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. A smooth mixture ensures a creamy filling.
- Gently pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the pecans and stir until everything is well combined. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the pecan mixture into the prepared pie crust. Spread it evenly to the edges.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. The center may still jiggle slightly when it's done.
- Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to set properly and prevents a messy slice.
Tips for the Best Chocolate Pecan Pie:
- Use good quality cocoa powder: The flavor of your cocoa powder will significantly impact the final taste of your pie. Dutch-processed cocoa powder will give a richer, less acidic flavor.
- Don't overbake: Overbaking can result in a dry pie. Start checking for doneness around 50 minutes.
- Let it cool completely: This is essential for easy slicing and the best texture. Patience is key!
Variations:
- Spiced Chocolate Pecan Pie: Add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon and ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg to the filling for a warm, spiced twist.
- Espresso Chocolate Pecan Pie: Stir in 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder along with the cocoa powder for a mocha-like flavor.
- White Chocolate Pecan Pie: Replace the cocoa powder with ½ cup of white chocolate chips, melted and stirred into the wet ingredients.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Fat: Approximately 25-30g
- Sugar: Approximately 40-50g
This chocolate pecan pie recipe is a delicious and relatively easy recipe for a quick dinner dessert, a special occasion, or any time you crave a truly satisfying treat. It’s a perfect blend of sweet, nutty, and chocolatey flavors that's sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy!