Kentucky Pecan Pie with Chocolate and Nuts Recipe
The Kentucky Pecan Pie with Chocolate and Nuts Recipe is a spectacular twist on a classic Southern dessert that combines the rich, buttery flavor of pecans with the decadent warmth of melted chocolate and crunchy mixed nuts. This pie is not just a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for the eyes with its glossy, caramelized filling and nutty topping. Whether it’s a holiday centerpiece or a cozy weekend indulgence, this pie offers a perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and a hint of vanilla that will have you savoring every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making this Kentucky Pecan Pie with Chocolate and Nuts Recipe shine. Each component plays a key role—from the buttery pie crust that provides the perfect base, to the toasted nuts that add a satisfying crunch, to the smooth chocolate chips that melt into delightful pockets of flavor.
- Prepared 9-inch pie crust: You can use homemade or store-bought—just make sure it’s chilled to get a flaky, golden crust.
- Pecan halves (1 cup): These bring the signature nutty, buttery flavor that defines the classic pecan pie.
- Mixed nuts (1/2 cup): A blend like walnuts and almonds adds complexity and extra texture.
- Semisweet or bittersweet chocolate chips (1 cup): Chocolate cuts the sweetness and adds richness to every forkful.
- Dark corn syrup (1 cup): This helps create the pie’s glossy, sticky sweet filling with that signature chewiness.
- Brown sugar (1 cup, packed): For deep caramel notes and warmth.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Adds richness and moistness to the filling.
- Large eggs (3): They bind everything together and create that just-set custard texture.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Boosts all the flavors with a mellow, aromatic touch.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
How to Make Kentucky Pecan Pie with Chocolate and Nuts Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pie Crust
Begin by rolling your prepared pie dough into a 9-inch pie pan, pressing it firmly into the edges and bottom. Chilling the crust for about 15 minutes in the refrigerator is a smart step that prevents it from shrinking during baking and helps you achieve a perfectly crisp base.
Step 2: Toast the Nuts
Lightly toasting the pecans and mixed nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes brings out their natural oils and intensifies their flavor. This step adds an irresistible warmth and crunch that complements the smooth filling beautifully.
Step 3: Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, whisk together dark corn syrup, packed brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until the mixture is smooth and beautifully combined. This blend forms the sweet, gooey heart of the pie, a luscious custard that will set with a perfect texture.
Step 4: Add Nuts and Chocolate
Gently fold the toasted pecans, mixed nuts, and chocolate chips into the filling. Be sure to distribute them evenly to ensure every slice has that delightful balance of nutty crunch and melted chocolate pockets.
Step 5: Fill and Bake
Pour the filling into your chilled pie crust, spreading it evenly. Bake the pie in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for around 50 to 60 minutes. Keep an eye on it at the 50-minute mark to avoid overbaking—the filling should be set but still slightly wobbly in the center for that perfect gooey texture.
Step 6: Cool Completely
Allow your Kentucky Pecan Pie with Chocolate and Nuts Recipe to cool fully on a wire rack. This cooling period is crucial—it sets the filling so that when you slice it, every piece holds together with that signature sticky sweetness intact.
How to Serve Kentucky Pecan Pie with Chocolate and Nuts Recipe
Garnishes
Serving this pie with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream enhances its creamy texture and balances the rich sweetness perfectly. For a festive touch, sprinkle some extra toasted pecans or a light dusting of cocoa powder on top to elevate both flavor and presentation.
Side Dishes
While this pie is definitely the star, light, refreshing sides such as a crisp green salad with citrus vinaigrette or a simple fruit compote provide a lovely contrast. These options cleanse the palate and complement the rich, nutty flavors without overpowering them.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party or holiday gathering, try slicing the pie into mini tartlets or serving individual portions in cute ramekins topped with chopped nuts and chocolate drizzle. Another idea is layering small wedges with thin slices of pear or apple on the side, integrating fresh fruit flavors for a stunning presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Kentucky Pecan Pie with Chocolate and Nuts Recipe, wrap any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. Keep it refrigerated for up to 4 days, allowing the flavors to deepen and the texture to remain perfectly gooey yet firm.
Freezing
You can freeze the pie for longer storage by wrapping it securely in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
Reheating
To warm up leftover slices without losing that luscious texture, heat them in a low oven (about 300 degrees Fahrenheit) for 10 to 15 minutes or until just warm. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy and the filling tough.
FAQs
Can I use a homemade pie crust for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade pie crust adds a wonderful rustic touch and flaky texture, but a good-quality store-bought crust works beautifully for convenience without sacrificing flavor.
What kind of chocolate is best for this pecan pie?
Semisweet or bittersweet chocolate chips are ideal because they provide a perfect balance of sweetness and richness that pairs wonderfully with the nuts and sugary filling.
Can I substitute corn syrup with another sweetener?
While dark corn syrup gives this pie its classic texture and shine, you can try using maple syrup or honey as alternatives, but keep in mind they will alter the flavor and consistency slightly.
Why do I need to toast the nuts?
Toasting nuts releases their natural oils and intensifies their flavor, which adds a delicious depth and enhances the crunch in the finished pie.
How do I know when the pecan pie is fully baked?
The filling should look set, with a slight wobble in the center but no liquid movement. The crust should be golden brown. If you gently shake the pie and see it jiggle excessively, it needs more time in the oven.
Final Thoughts
If you want to create a dessert that feels both comforting and indulgent, this Kentucky Pecan Pie with Chocolate and Nuts Recipe is your answer. It’s the perfect combination of tradition, flavor, and a little luxurious twist that will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Grab your apron and get ready to impress your friends and family with every gooey, nutty slice!
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Kentucky Pecan Pie with Chocolate and Nuts Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
A decadent Kentucky Pecan Pie featuring a rich blend of toasted pecans, mixed nuts, and semisweet chocolate chips baked in a flaky pie crust. This classic Southern dessert combines the nutty crunch with the smooth sweetness of a traditional pecan pie filling enhanced by chocolate for extra indulgence.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 prepared 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Nuts
- 1 cup pecan halves
- 1/2 cup mixed nuts (such as walnuts, almonds)
Filling
- 1 cup semisweet or bittersweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup dark corn syrup
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare Your Pie Crust: Roll out your prepared pie dough into a 9-inch pie pan, firmly pressing it into place. Chill the crust in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to prevent shrinking during baking.
- Toast the Nuts: Lightly toast the pecans and mixed nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant, about 5 minutes. This process enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch.
- Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the dark corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and well combined.
- Add Nuts and Chocolate: Gently fold the toasted pecans, mixed nuts, and chocolate chips into the filling mixture, ensuring even distribution throughout.
- Fill and Bake: Pour the filling into the chilled pie crust. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. Begin checking at 50 minutes to avoid overbaking.
- Cool Completely: Let the pie cool fully on a wire rack to allow the filling to set properly, making it easier to slice and enjoy without losing its gooey texture.
Notes
- Chilling the crust before baking helps prevent shrinking and ensures a crispier base.
- Toasting nuts intensifies their flavor but be careful not to burn them.
- Check the pie starting at 50 minutes to avoid overbaking and cracking the filling.
- Allowing the pie to cool completely will yield cleaner slices and firmer filling.
- Use high-quality chocolate chips for the best flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
