Southern Chocolate Pecan Pie
A rich and decadent Southern Chocolate Pecan Pie featuring a chocolate and coconut filling topped with crunchy pecans. Perfect for special occasions or holiday desserts, it combines smooth chocolate, sweet coconut, and toasted pecans in a luscious, satisfying treat that appeals to chocolate lovers and pie enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the sweet cooking chocolate with butter in a saucepan. Place over low heat and stir constantly until melted.
- Remove from heat and gradually blend in evaporated milk.
- In a bowl, combine sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
- Beat in eggs and vanilla into the dry mixture.
- Gradually mix in the chocolate mixture.
- Pour the filling into the unbaked pie shell.
- Combine coconut and chopped pecans.
- Sprinkle the coconut and pecan mixture over the filling.
- Bake at 375°F for 45 to 50 minutes or until puffed and browned.
- If topping browns too quickly, cover loosely with tin foil during the last 15 minutes.
- Cool for at least 4 hours to allow the filling to set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark chocolate instead of sweet cooking chocolate. If you're out of evaporated milk, you can substitute it with a mixture of milk and cream or use coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Be sure to stir the filling well to avoid lumps from the cornstarch. If you want an extra crunch, add some toasted pecans on top.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of this Southern Chocolate Pecan Pie warm or at room temperature, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it a delightful dessert after a hearty meal. Try serving it alongside Crunchy Ham And Swiss Appetizers for a balanced spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. Allow it to cool slightly before serving to enjoy the gooey filling.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southern Chocolate Pecan Pie contains roughly 398 calories, with 4g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 674mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pie in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the pie a day ahead. After baking, let it cool completely, then refrigerate it until you're ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld and the filling to set properly.
What can I use instead of pecans?
If you don't have pecans on hand, walnuts or hazelnuts can be great substitutes. They will provide a different flavor but will still contribute that crunchy texture. Just make sure to chop them roughly before adding to the pie.
How can I tell when the pie is done baking?
The pie is done when it is puffed and browned on top. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If the edges start to brown too quickly, cover them loosely with tin foil.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).