If you’re looking for a dessert that perfectly balances rich, gooey chocolate with the irresistible crunch of toasted nuts, look no further than this Kentucky Pecan Pie with Chocolate and Nuts. This delightful treat combines the classic Southern pecan pie tradition with luscious melted chocolate and an extra handful of mixed nuts for an indulgent finish that anyone will love. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday gathering or simply craving a comforting homemade dessert, this recipe promises a slice of sweet, nutty heaven.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic meets indulgence: Combines traditional Kentucky pecan pie with a decadent layer of chocolate for a new, exciting twist.
- Perfect texture harmony: Gooey filling contrasts beautifully with the crunch of toasted pecans and mixed nuts.
- Simple ingredients, big flavor: Uses everyday pantry staples that come together for an unforgettable dessert.
- Easy to customize: Adapt with your favorite nuts or chocolate varieties to suit any occasion or taste preference.
- Ideal for any occasion: Whether it’s family dinner or holiday celebrations, this pie is always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Kentucky Pecan Pie with Chocolate and Nuts recipe relies on simple, high-quality ingredients that bring authentic flavor and perfect texture to your dessert. Each component has a distinct role, from the buttery crust to the sweet, nut-packed filling and luscious chocolate.
- Pie crust: Choose a flaky, buttery store-bought or homemade dough as the sturdy base for your pie.
- Pecans: Toasted pecans provide the pie’s signature crunch and nutty flavor.
- Mixed nuts: Enhance texture and flavor diversity with a blend of walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts.
- Chocolate chips or chunks: Use semi-sweet or dark chocolate to add richness and gooey depth.
- Brown sugar: Adds moistness and a caramel-like sweetness essential for classic pecan pie.
- Corn syrup: Creates the sticky, glossy filling that holds the pie together.
- Butter: Melts into the filling for richness and smooth texture.
- Eggs: Bind the filling ingredients and help it set perfectly as it bakes.
- Vanilla extract: Provides warm, aromatic notes that enhance the pie’s overall flavor.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and elevates the deep flavors.
Variations for Kentucky Pecan Pie with Chocolate and Nuts
This decadent Kentucky Pecan Pie with Chocolate and Nuts is easy to customize, making it perfect for those who love to experiment with flavors or cater to specific dietary needs. Feel free to switch up the nuts or chocolate, or add complementary ingredients for your own signature pie.
- Different nuts: Substitute or add pecans with macadamia nuts, pistachios, or pecan halves for varied flavors and textures.
- Chocolate type swaps: Try milk chocolate, white chocolate, or even a mix to change the sweetness and creaminess.
- Gluten-free crust: Use a gluten-free pie crust to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive friends and family.
- Vegan option: Replace butter with vegan margarine and use a flax egg to create a plant-based version.
- Spice it up: Add a dash of cinnamon, espresso powder, or cayenne pepper to the filling for an unexpected flavor twist.
How to Make Kentucky Pecan Pie with Chocolate and Nuts
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Begin by rolling out your pie crust and fitting it into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim the edges and chill the crust in the fridge for 15 minutes to prevent shrinking during baking.
Step 2: Toast the Nuts
Lightly toast the pecans and mixed nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until fragrant and just golden. This enhances their crunchiness and flavor.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. Stir in the toasted nuts and chocolate chips for that irresistible gooey and crunchy combination.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Pour the filling evenly into the chilled pie crust. Spread gently to make sure the nuts are well distributed and the chocolate starts melting slightly on top.
Step 5: Bake the Pie
Bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for about 50-60 minutes. The filling should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Keep an eye to prevent over-browning.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack to help the filling set. Serve at room temperature or slightly warmed for the best flavor and texture.
Pro Tips for Making Kentucky Pecan Pie with Chocolate and Nuts
- Chill your crust: Keeping the crust cold before baking prevents sogginess and maintains flakiness.
- Toast nuts gently: Avoid burning by toasting on medium heat and stirring often for balanced crunch.
- Choose your chocolate wisely: Use good-quality chocolate for meltiness without graininess or excessive sweetness.
- Check doneness carefully: The filling should jiggle slightly when done; it firms up as it cools.
- Let it rest: Cooling fully is key to slicing clean pieces and letting flavors meld beautifully.
How to Serve Kentucky Pecan Pie with Chocolate and Nuts
Garnishes
Top slices with a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar to add an elegant touch and extra sweetness-to-balance.
Side Dishes
Pair this pie with rich vanilla ice cream, a scoop of cinnamon-spiced gelato, or a fresh berry compote for contrast and layering of flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the pie in mini tart pans for individual portions or create a rustic look by leaving the edges crimped and untrimmed for that homemade charm.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover Kentucky Pecan Pie with Chocolate and Nuts tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 4 days.
Freezing
You can freeze the entire baked pie or individual slices by wrapping them well with airtight material. Thaw in the fridge before serving for best texture.
Reheating
Reheat slices in a low-temperature oven (about 300°F / 150°C) for 10-15 minutes to warm through without drying out the filling or crust.
FAQs
Can I use a homemade pie crust for this recipe?
Absolutely! A flaky homemade crust works beautifully and can bring an extra personal touch to your Kentucky Pecan Pie with Chocolate and Nuts.
What is the best type of chocolate to use?
Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips are ideal because they balance the sweetness of the filling and add a rich, smooth texture when melted.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just bake it fully and store it covered in the fridge. Bring to room temperature before serving.
How can I prevent the crust from getting soggy?
Chilling the crust before baking and using a hot oven helps set the crust quickly, keeping it crisp even with the moist filling.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The recipe is naturally not gluten-free unless you use a gluten-free pie crust. Just swap out the crust to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the combination of gooey chocolate, crunchy nuts, and sweet southern charm all baked into one Kentucky Pecan Pie with Chocolate and Nuts. It’s a dessert that truly feels like a warm embrace on a plate, perfect for sharing with loved ones or treating yourself to a moment of delicious indulgence. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become a beloved favorite for many gatherings to come.