Irresistible Kentucky Pecan Pie with a Chocolate Twist

As soon as the first whiff of pecan pie fills your kitchen, it’s like a warm embrace that instantly transports me to simpler times, where gatherings with friends and family were the highlight of my week. That gooey mixture of chocolate and chopped pecans bubbling away in the oven has a way of tempting even the most disciplined among us.

I discovered this delightful Kentucky Pecan Pie recipe during a cozy fall afternoon, rummaging through my cupboard for ingredients. With its rich flavors and a perfect dance between sweet and savory, this pie is sure to cut through the monotony of everyday desserts. Imagine the satisfying crunch of toasted pecans paired with melted chocolate—irresistible!

This pie is not only a showstopper but also incredibly simple to whip up, making it ideal for those days when you just want to treat yourself without the fuss. Let’s take a dive into this deliciously nostalgic recipe that brings a taste of the South right to your table. Your taste buds are in for a treat!

Why is Kentucky Pecan Pie so irresistible?

Decadent, chocolatey goodness: This pie combines the deep richness of semi-sweet chocolate with the crunchy texture of toasted pecans, delivering a heavenly bite every time.

Quick and easy: With just 15 minutes of prep, you can enjoy this delightful dessert in no time, perfect for busy evenings.

Crowd pleaser: Serve it warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and watch it quickly vanish from the dessert table!

Nostalgic comfort: Each slice evokes memories of joyful gatherings, making it a cherished family favorite.

Versatile delight: Perfect for holidays or cozy nights at home, it’s a delicious way to break free from the routine of fast food and embrace homemade flavors.

Kentucky Pecan Pie Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this chocolatey Southern classic that’s sure to impress!

For the Filling
Semi-sweet chocolate chips – they’re the secret ingredient that adds a luscious depth to your pie.
Chopped pecans – these provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, essential for a great Kentucky Pecan Pie.
Eggs, beaten – they act as a binding agent, helping to create that smooth filling.
Sugar – sweetens the mixture, balancing the richness of the chocolate and the nuts.
Butter, melted – adds a velvety richness to the filling, enhancing overall flavor.
All-purpose flour – helps to thicken the filling and gives the pie a perfect texture.
Vanilla extract – brings warmth and depth, making your dessert even more aromatic.
9-inch deep dish unbaked pie shell – don’t skimp here; a buttery crust is key to a phenomenal pie!

Feel free to mix and match the ingredients for your preferred taste, but be sure to embrace the classic elements that make this Kentucky Pecan Pie truly irresistible!

How to Make Kentucky Pecan Pie

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F. This step ensures that your pie bakes evenly, creating that perfect golden crust.

  2. Combine the chocolate chips, chopped pecans, beaten eggs, sugar, melted butter, flour, and vanilla extract in a large mixing bowl. Stir well until fully incorporated, creating a rich and creamy filling.

  3. Pour the filling into the unbaked pie shell. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, ensuring every slice will have a good balance of chocolate and nuts.

  4. Bake for 1 hour, or until the top is set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. You’ll know it’s ready when a beautiful, shiny crust forms on top.

  5. Cool the pie on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes. This allows the filling to firm up nicely, making slicing easier and ensuring each piece holds its shape.

  6. Serve slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if desired, for that extra touch of decadence.

Optional: Top with a sprinkle of sea salt for a delightful contrast.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Kentucky Pecan Pie

Helpful Tricks for Kentucky Pecan Pie

  • Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality chocolate chips and fresh pecans for the best flavor. It makes a significant difference in your Kentucky Pecan Pie’s taste!

  • Beat Eggs Thoroughly: Make sure your eggs are well beaten before adding to the mixture. This helps create a smoother filling and prevents an overly dense pie.

  • Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on your pie during the last few minutes of baking. Overbaking can lead to a dry filling, so look for a set top with a slight jiggle center.

  • Cool Properly: Let the pie cool for at least 30 minutes to ensure the filling firms up nicely. This makes for cleaner slices and a more enjoyable tasting experience.

  • Serve with Flair: For an extra touch, serve your pie with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. A drizzle of chocolate sauce on top can elevate the flavor even more!

Make Ahead Options

These Kentucky Pecan Pies are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling and refrigerate it up to 24 hours ahead of time, which saves you precious moments on busy days. To do this, mix the chocolate chips, chopped pecans, eggs, sugar, melted butter, flour, and vanilla extract, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the prepped filling into the unbaked pie shell and bake according to the recipe instructions. For optimal quality, be sure to bake the pie right after assembling to enjoy that fresh, gooey goodness that bursts with flavor. Just like that, you’ll have a show-stopping dessert ready with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Kentucky Pecan Pie

Room Temperature: Store leftover Kentucky Pecan Pie at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh.

Fridge: For longer storage, place the pie in the fridge, where it can last up to 4 days. Ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent it from absorbing other odors.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual slices or the whole pie tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat slices in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until warm.

What to Serve with Kentucky Pecan Pie?

Imagine a cozy gathering where the warm scent of chocolate and pecans fills the air, inviting everyone to the table.

  • Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream complements the rich chocolate and nutty flavors, creating a delightful contrast.

  • Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a soft texture, balancing the pie’s dense filling.

  • Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over each slice enhances the pie’s sweetness and adds a luscious finish that melts in your mouth.

  • Fresh Berries: Bright and tart berries like raspberries or strawberries offer a refreshing burst, cutting through the pie’s richness with each bite.

  • Coffee: A steaming cup of coffee brings out the flavors beautifully, providing a perfect warmth to this delightful dessert experience.

  • Nutty Shortbread Cookies: The buttery crunch of these cookies echoes the pie’s pecan flavor while adding an extra layer of blissful texture.

  • Chocolate Stout Beer: For a unique pairing, this rich, malty brew harmonizes with the chocolate in the pie, making for a memorable treat.

  • Chai Tea: The spiced notes of chai elevate the dish’s cozy feel, turning dessert into a warm and inviting experience.

  • Chocolate Mousse: For those who adore chocolate, a light and airy mousse creates an enticing texture contrast without overwhelming the palate.

Every combination amplifies the nostalgic flavors of this Kentucky Pecan Pie, making it an unforgettable dessert for any gathering!

Kentucky Pecan Pie Variations

Feel free to get creative and adapt this delightful pie to match your taste preferences!

  • Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free baking blend for a nutty twist.

  • Nut-Free: Replace pecans with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds to retain texture without the nuts.

  • Rich & Creamy: Add 1/2 cup of heavy cream to the filling for an ultra-luxurious dessert experience.

  • Spice It Up: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavor profile with warming spices.

  • Chocolate Lovers: Use dark chocolate chips or chunks instead of semi-sweet for an intensified chocolate flavor.

  • Salted Caramel: Drizzle homemade or store-bought salted caramel sauce over the pie before serving for a sweet-salty delight.

  • Coconut Twist: Mix in 1/2 cup of toasted shredded coconut for added texture and a tropical flair.

  • Fruit Fusion: Add a layer of fresh raspberries or sliced bananas before pouring in the filling to introduce a fresh, fruity layer.

Each variation offers a unique way to enjoy this cherished dessert, ensuring there’s something for everyone!

Kentucky Pecan Pie

Kentucky Pecan Pie Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best pecans for Kentucky Pecan Pie?
Absolutely! Look for fresh pecans that are plump and firm, free from dark spots or rancid odors. You want them to have a buttery fragrance—bagged or bulk options are fine, so long as they’re fresh!

How should I store leftover Kentucky Pecan Pie?
For sure! You can keep your pie at room temperature for up to 2 days, just make sure to cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. If you’d like to save it for longer, refrigerate it for up to 4 days, ensuring it’s well-wrapped to avoid any refrigerator odors.

Can I freeze Kentucky Pecan Pie, and how do I do it?
Very yes! To freeze your pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You could also slice it into individual pieces for easy access. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy some, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat slices in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warm.

What if my pie filling doesn’t set while baking?
If your filling isn’t setting, it’s likely that it needs a bit more time in the oven. Check it around the 50-minute mark; look for a shiny top that is slightly jiggly in the center—not overly wobbly. If it looks too soft, let it bake for a little longer until the filling firms up.

Is Kentucky Pecan Pie suitable for people with nut allergies?
Not at all! Since pecans are a key ingredient in this recipe, it’s best to choose an alternative dessert for anyone with nut allergies. You could try a classic pumpkin pie or chocolate silk pie, both of which are equally delightful without the nut content!

Can I use different chocolate chips in the filling?
Absolutely! While semi-sweet chocolate chips are traditional, feel free to experiment with dark chocolate for a richer flavor or even milk chocolate for a sweeter touch. Just remember that the taste and sweetness may vary depending on your choice!

Kentucky Pecan Pie

Irresistible Kentucky Pecan Pie with a Chocolate Twist

This Kentucky Pecan Pie features a delightful chocolate twist, perfect for any occasion and sure to please everyone.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: DESSERTS
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Filling Ingredients
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips Adds a luscious depth
  • 1 cup chopped pecans Provides a delightful crunch
  • 3 eggs, beaten Acts as a binding agent
  • 1 cup sugar Balances richness
  • 1/2 cup butter, melted Adds richness
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour Helps thicken filling
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Brings warmth and depth
  • 1 9-inch unbaked pie shell Key to a phenomenal pie

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • Spatula
  • Oven
  • 9-inch deep dish pie plate

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F.
  2. Combine the chocolate chips, chopped pecans, beaten eggs, sugar, melted butter, flour, and vanilla extract in a large mixing bowl. Stir well until fully incorporated.
  3. Pour the filling into the unbaked pie shell, spreading it evenly.
  4. Bake for 1 hour, or until the top is set and a toothpick comes out clean.
  5. Cool the pie on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes.
  6. Serve slightly warm with vanilla ice cream, if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 5gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 350IUCalcium: 30mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Optional: Top with a sprinkle of sea salt for a delightful contrast.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!

Leave a Comment

Recipe Rating