If you are craving a dessert that perfectly blends rich chocolate, buttery pecans, and the classic gooey texture of pie, you have to try this Chocolate Fudge Pecan Pie Recipe. It’s an irresistible treat that combines the deep, luscious flavor of fudge with the delightful crunch of pecans, all nestled in a flaky pie crust. This pie is sure to impress at holidays, family dinners, or any special occasion when you want to spoil your loved ones with something truly decadent and heartwarming.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Chocolate Fudge Pecan Pie Recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From the creamy evaporated milk to the crunchy pecans, every component contributes to a pie that’s rich, smooth, and satisfyingly nutty.
- 2/3 cup evaporated milk: Adds creamy richness that balances the sweetness and helps melt the chocolate smoothly.
- 1/2 (12-oz.) package semisweet chocolate morsels: Provides the deep, fudgy chocolate flavor that’s the star of the pie.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Enhances the pie with a velvety texture and subtle buttery notes.
- 1 cup sugar: Sweetens the filling perfectly without overpowering the chocolate.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the filling so it sets just right.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the filling together for that signature pie custard consistency.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Brightens the flavor and adds a lovely aromatic depth.
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances sweetness and elevates all the other flavors.
- 1 cup chopped pecans: Gives a delightful crunch and nutty richness that complements the fudge perfectly.
- 1 (9-inch) frozen unbaked piecrust shell: The flaky, buttery base that supports all the delicious filling.
- Ice cream (for serving): Optional but highly recommended for a creamy, cool contrast.
How to Make Chocolate Fudge Pecan Pie Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that when you’re ready to bake, the oven is hot enough to give your pie that perfect set and golden crust. Using a frozen unbaked piecrust is a terrific shortcut that saves time while still delivering a buttery, flaky base.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate Mixture
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the evaporated milk, semisweet chocolate morsels, and butter. Microwave on high for about 1 to 1 1/2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until the mixture is melted and smooth. This step mixes luscious chocolate with creamy milk and rich butter, creating the decadent fudge foundation of your pie.
Step 3: Combine Sugar and Flour
Next, whisk in the sugar and all-purpose flour into the warm chocolate mixture until fully incorporated. This not only sweetens the filling but also allows the flour to act as a stabilizer, so the texture of the pie remains gooey yet holds together when sliced.
Step 4: Add Eggs One at a Time
Carefully add the eggs one at a time, whisking thoroughly after each addition. Eggs are crucial for the structure of the pie, helping it set up beautifully while keeping that creamy, fudge-like consistency.
Step 5: Flavor and Add Pecans
Stir in the vanilla extract, kosher salt, and chopped pecans. The vanilla brings a fragrant lift, the salt deepens the flavors, and the pecans introduce that crave-worthy crunch that makes this pie more than just chocolate—it’s an experience.
Step 6: Fill the Pie Crust
Pour the luscious filling evenly into the frozen pie crust shell. Smooth the top gently to create an even surface that will bake uniformly. Filling a frozen crust helps prevent sogginess and ensures a nice flaky edge.
Step 7: Bake the Pie
Bake in your preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes or until the filling is set but still slightly wobbly in the center. You want the pie to be cooked through but still soft and fudgy, not dry or rubbery.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Allow the pie to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This lets the filling firm up enough for clean cuts and the flavors to meld beautifully. For an extra indulgent touch, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for that perfect contrast of warm pie and cold creaminess.
How to Serve Chocolate Fudge Pecan Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate your Chocolate Fudge Pecan Pie Recipe to showstopper status. Toasted pecan halves placed artfully on top add elegance and extra crunch, while a dusting of powdered sugar can offer a delicate snowy effect that looks gorgeous.
Side Dishes
This pie shines brightly on its own but pairs wonderfully with a few light sides such as a crisp green salad or fresh fruit to balance the richness. A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce can also complement the chocolate and nutty notes superbly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual slices with a scoop of ice cream nestled inside a hollowed-out chocolate shell or alongside a warm cup of espresso or hot cocoa. You could also experiment with mini pie versions baked in muffin tins for charming single servings that guests will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your Chocolate Fudge Pecan Pie Recipe tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keeping it chilled maintains the creamy texture and prevents the pecans from going stale.
Freezing
If you want to make this pie in advance, you can freeze it before or after baking. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating or serving.
Reheating
To enjoy the pie warm, reheat individual slices gently in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds, or warm the whole pie in a 325°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes. Warming brings back that fresh-baked comfort while preserving the fudgy filling and crunchy pecans.
FAQs
Can I use a homemade pie crust instead of frozen?
Absolutely! A homemade pie crust adds a personal touch and can be tailored to your liking, whether you prefer it extra flaky or buttery. Just make sure to blind bake it slightly if you want to avoid sogginess from the filling.
What type of chocolate works best in this pie?
Semisweet chocolate morsels give a perfect balance between sweet and bitter, creating a rich fudge flavor without being overly sweet. However, you can experiment with bittersweet or milk chocolate based on your preference.
Can I substitute the evaporated milk?
While evaporated milk provides the creamy texture and slight caramel notes, you can replace it with whole milk or half-and-half, but the pie might be a bit less rich. Avoid using non-dairy milk as the texture might change.
Is it necessary to chill the pie before slicing?
Cooling the pie for at least 10 minutes helps the filling set for cleaner slices. If you slice it too soon, the filling can be too soft and may not hold its shape well.
How can I make this pie nut-free?
Simply omit the pecans or replace them with toasted seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a similar crunch. The Chocolate Fudge Pecan Pie Recipe will still taste decadent and delicious without nuts.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly comforting and exciting about baking this Chocolate Fudge Pecan Pie Recipe. It’s a fabulous blend of textures and flavors that feels both classic and indulgent all at once. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a weekend treat, this pie is sure to become a beloved favorite in your dessert rotation. I can’t wait for you to bake it, enjoy it, and share it with your favorite people!
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Chocolate Fudge Pecan Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This rich and indulgent Chocolate Fudge Pecan Pie combines a luscious chocolate filling with crunchy pecans in a flaky pie crust. Perfect for special occasions or a decadent dessert, it features a smooth chocolate custard made with evaporated milk, melted chocolate, and butter, baked to perfection until set and served warm with a scoop of ice cream for an extra treat.
Ingredients
Pie Filling
- 2/3 cup evaporated milk
- 1/2 (12-oz.) package semisweet chocolate morsels (about 6 oz.)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Crust
- 1 (9-inch) frozen unbaked piecrust shell
To Serve
- Ice cream (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring it’s hot and ready for baking the pie.
- Melt Chocolate Mixture: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the evaporated milk, semisweet chocolate morsels, and butter. Microwave on HIGH for 1 to 1 1/2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds until the mixture is completely melted and smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Whisk the sugar and all-purpose flour into the melted chocolate mixture until fully blended and smooth.
- Add Eggs: Crack the eggs in one at a time, whisking thoroughly after each addition to incorporate well and create a uniform filling.
- Add Flavor and Pecans: Stir in the vanilla extract, kosher salt, and chopped pecans, ensuring everything is evenly distributed throughout the filling.
- Fill Pie Crust: Pour the prepared filling into the frozen, unbaked piecrust shell and spread it evenly for an even bake.
- Bake Pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. For an extra delightful experience, serve warm slices topped with a scoop of ice cream.
Notes
- Make sure not to overbake the pie; the filling should be set but slightly soft in the center to ensure a fudgy texture.
- Chopping the pecans yourself will enhance freshness compared to pre-chopped nuts.
- The pie tastes best served warm with ice cream, but leftovers can be refrigerated and warmed slightly before serving.
- If you don’t have a microwave, melt the chocolate, evaporated milk, and butter in a heatproof bowl over simmering water (double boiler).
- Use a quality frozen pie crust or make your own for best results.
