Chocolate Chip Pecan Pie: Decadent & Gooey Recipe

If you are searching for a dessert that combines rich flavors and delightful textures, chocolate chip pecan pie is the perfect choice. Not only does it enhance the classic pecan pie with a layer of indulgent chocolate chips, but it also delivers a gooey, buttery filling that is second to none. Whether you are preparing for a holiday feast, a family gathering, or simply treating yourself, this pie is guaranteed to please.

Moreover, this recipe is simple enough for beginners yet sophisticated enough for experienced bakers. In this guide, you will find everything you need to make this dessert flawless, from ingredients and step-by-step instructions to creative variations and pro tips.

Why Choose Chocolate Chip Pecan Pie?

To begin with, chocolate chip pecan pie offers a unique twist on the traditional southern favorite. While pecan pie alone is already beloved for its sweet, nutty filling, the addition of chocolate takes it to another level. For example:

The chocolate chips add richness that balances the caramel-like sweetness of the filling.
Meanwhile, the pecans provide crunch, creating an excellent contrast with the smooth, gooey center.
Additionally, the buttery, flaky crust ties all the flavors together seamlessly.

Furthermore, this pie is incredibly versatile. Not only is it ideal for holiday tables, but it also works wonderfully as a casual dessert. You can serve it as-is, or you can enhance it with toppings such as whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. If you want to make a homemade crust, try this buttery flaky pie crust recipe for a delicious base.

Ingredients for the Best Chocolate Pecan Dessert

Before starting, it is important to gather all the necessary ingredients. Below is a comprehensive list for a 9-inch chocolate chip pecan pie:

For the Filling

1 ¼ cups sugar – Adds the essential sweetness.
3 large eggs – Provides structure and binds the ingredients.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Thickens the filling to achieve a gooey consistency.
1 cup light corn syrup – Creates the caramel-like texture that pecan pies are known for.
½ cup unsalted butter, melted – Adds richness and a creamy finish.
¼ teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor balance.
1 tablespoon lemon juice – Brightens the flavor and prevents excessive sweetness.
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips – The star ingredient that brings chocolaty goodness.
1 ½ cups chopped pecans – Provides crunch and complements the chocolate beautifully.

For the Crust

1 prepared pie crust – While store-bought is convenient, a homemade crust elevates the pie significantly.

Optional Garnishes

Whole pecans for a decorative topping.
Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving.

If you’re looking for quick alternatives for dessert crusts, explore the options in Lazy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars for inspiration.

Ingredient Substitution Tips

If you want to experiment with different flavors:

Substitute light corn syrup with maple syrup for a distinct aroma and taste.
Replace semisweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate for a bolder flavor.
Add a splash of vanilla extract or bourbon to enhance the richness.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Pecan Pie: Step-by-Step

1. Preheat the Oven

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Positioning the rack in the middle ensures even heat distribution during baking.

2. Prepare the Pie Crust

Next, roll out your pie crust and gently press it into a 9-inch pie pan. To prevent shrinking during baking, chill the crust in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. Additionally, you can brush the crust with a thin layer of beaten egg white to create a moisture barrier.

3. Mix the Filling

Now it’s time to prepare the filling:

In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs until frothy.
Gradually add the sugar, flour, corn syrup, melted butter, salt, and lemon juice. Whisk the mixture until it is smooth and well combined.
Stir in the chocolate chips and chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the filling.

4. Assemble the Pie

Then, pour the filling into the prepared crust. For a decorative touch, arrange whole pecans on top.

5. Bake

Place the pie in the oven and bake for 50–60 minutes. While the edges should set, the center should remain slightly jiggly to ensure a gooey texture. If the crust edges brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil halfway through baking.

6. Cool Completely

Finally, let the pie cool on a wire rack. This step is crucial, as it allows the filling to firm up and ensures clean, neat slices.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

To elevate your pie:

Preventing Cracks: Do not over-bake the pie, as this can lead to cracking. Instead, remove it from the oven when the center is still slightly wobbly.
Enhancing Flavor: Lightly toast the pecans before adding them to the filling. This step intensifies their nutty flavor.
Customizing Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the sugar to 1 cup.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Short-Term Storage

To store the pie for a few days, let it cool completely, then cover it loosely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate it for up to 4 days.

Freezing

If you plan to freeze the pie:

Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then cover it with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Freeze the pie for up to 2 months.
To thaw, transfer it to the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

For the best results, warm the pie in a 300°F oven for 15–20 minutes before serving. This step refreshes the texture without drying it out.

Creative Variations of Chocolate Chip Pecan Pie

1. Bourbon Chocolate Chip Pecan Pie

Add 2 tablespoons of bourbon to the filling for a bold, sophisticated twist.

2. Maple Pecan Pie

Substitute corn syrup with maple syrup for a natural sweetness.

3. Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie

Use dark chocolate chips instead of semisweet for a deeper, more intense flavor.

4. Caramel Swirl Pecan Pie

Drizzle caramel sauce into the filling before baking for an extra gooey layer.

5. Vegan Chocolate Chip Pecan Pie

Replace eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use plant-based butter and dairy-free chocolate chips.

Serving Chocolate Chip Pecan Pie

For a perfect presentation:

Serve the pie slightly warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Drizzle chocolate sauce or caramel over each slice for added decadence.
Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top to enhance the sweetness and create a gourmet touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Pecan Pie Need to Be Refrigerated?

Yes, it does. Refrigeration preserves freshness and prevents spoilage. Allow the pie to cool completely before covering it.

2. How Long Does Chocolate Chip Pecan Pie Last?

In the refrigerator: Up to 4 days.
In the freezer: Up to 2 months.

3. Can I Make This Pie Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! This pie can be made 1–2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator until serving.

4. How Do I Prevent a Soggy Crust?

Brush the crust with beaten egg white and pre-bake it for a few minutes. This step creates a protective barrier against moisture.

Why You Should Try Chocolate Chip Pecan Pie Today

In conclusion, chocolate chip pecan pie is the ultimate dessert for any occasion. Its balance of flavors and textures makes it a crowd-pleaser, while its versatility allows for endless customization. Whether you enjoy it plain, with ice cream, or drizzled with caramel, this pie will undoubtedly become a favorite in your recipe collection.