Dark Chocolate-Bourbon Pecan Pie
If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that encapsulates both nostalgia and culinary indulgence, look no further than this Dark Chocolate-Bourbon Pecan Pie. Imagine a perfectly baked pie crust holding a rich filling oozing with gooey dark chocolate, caramelized pecans, and a subtle hint of bourbon, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.
This pie is not just a dessert; it’s a heartfelt experience. With its chocolatey richness and nutty crunch, it’s the kind of treat that brings friends and family together—perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet surprise during your weekend baking spree. Easy to prepare and utterly delightful, this pie is guaranteed to evoke warm, cozy memories of family traditions around the table.
What’s Your Favorite Indulgence?
When was the last time you treated yourself to something decadently delicious? Perhaps you fondly remember the way your grandmother would bake pies on chilly afternoons, filling the house with warm aromas of chocolate and nuts.
In a world full of distractions, isn’t it time to take a moment for yourself? Questionably how this Dark Chocolate-Bourbon Pecan Pie can not only satisfy a sugar craving but evoke those cherished memories? Grab your apron, and let’s indulge!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: This pie comes together quickly, making it ideal for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Crowd-Pleasing Delight: It’s a sure-fire way to impress at gatherings, serving as the star dessert that everyone raves about.
- Minimal Ingredients: With just a handful of common pantry staples, you can craft this luxurious pie without breaking the bank.
- Nostalgic Appeal: Each bite resonates with the warmth of family traditions, evoking comfort and joy.
- Versatile Indulgence: Enjoy it as is or dress it up with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or freshly whipped cream for an extra touch of decadence.
Ingredients
- 1 Basic Pie Crust: The foundation for all the indulgent layers to come.
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature: Critical for binding and ensuring that luscious texture.
- 1/2 cup butter, browned and cooled slightly: Adds a nutty richness that deepens the flavor profile.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: A touch of sweetness to balance the savoriness of the pecans.
- 1 cup dark brown sugar: Infuses the filling with deep, caramel undertones.
- 1 Tbsp all-purpose flour: Helps to give structure without weighing the filling down.
- 1 Tbsp whole milk: Adds creaminess to the mixture.
- 1 Tbsp bourbon: A hint of whiskey warms the pie with sophisticated flavor.
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract: A classic touch that enhances sweetness beautifully.
- 2 cups pecans, chopped: Think crunchy, toasty goodness.
- 4 oz dark chocolate, chopped: The heart of the pie, melting into a luxurious ganache.
Each ingredient is not just a component; it’s a stepping stone to a mouthwatering masterpiece!
Timing
In just over an hour, you can transition from basic ingredients to a decadent Dark Chocolate-Bourbon Pecan Pie ready to impress. It’s incredible how the mingling of flavors develops in such a short time—one moment you’re preparing your crust, and moments later, you have a warm, gooey dessert cooling on your kitchen counter.
Perfect for when you crave the indulgence of a slow, luxurious dessert without needing to dedicate your entire afternoon to baking!
Step-by-Step
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees. Roll out your pie dough into a 12-inch circle, gently fitting it into your pie dish. You want to create a sturdy crust, so be gentle but make sure there are no cracks or holes. Bake this beauty until it’s lightly golden and par-baked—about 15 minutes. Your kitchen will begin to smell delightful!
Step 2:
Now, crank that oven up to 400 degrees! In a mixing bowl, crack those eggs and beat them lightly. Gradually mix in your browned butter, granulated sugar, and dark brown sugar until you achieve a smooth consistency. Stir in that tablespoon of all-purpose flour, whole milk, bourbon, and vanilla extract. With a loving hand, fold in those crunchy pecans and rich dark chocolate.
Step 3:
Pour this luscious mixture into your par-baked crust. Take a moment—appreciate those swirls of chocolate coating the pecans, draping them like an elegant cloak. Bake for 10 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 325 degrees. Continue to bake until the filling is set, which will take an additional 40 to 50 minutes.
Step 4:
Once you pull that dark, glistening pie from the oven, let it cool completely before slicing. The anticipation is a sweet struggle, but trust us, a cooled pie ensures that the filling maintains its perfectly gooey texture when served.
Nutritional Information
Each slice of this majestic pie is rich in flavor and indulgent in calories, but who can resist a little decadence? While it may be a treat to savor now and then, remember that moderation is key. A single slice of pie contains approximately 400 calories, infused with chocolate and nutty goodness sure to tantalize your taste buds and warm your heart.
Healthier Alternatives
If you’re looking to lighten things up a bit, consider these swaps. Use a low-sugar pie crust for a slightly healthier base, and opt for sugar substitutes like stevia or monk fruit instead of granulated and brown sugar. For a dairy-free option, substitute coconut oil for butter and use almond milk rather than whole milk.
With a few adjustments, you can enjoy this delicious pie while still being mindful of your ingredients!
Serving Suggestions
Wondering how best to serve your Dark Chocolate-Bourbon Pecan Pie? For the ultimate indulgence, pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, allowing the warm pie to melt into the cold creaminess.
Consider presenting it during family gatherings or cozy holiday celebrations for a touch of festivity. Don’t forget to add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top for that extra flavor contrast—it will take your taste experience to new heights.
Common Mistakes
Achieving the perfect pie can be a fine balance, and we’ve all made mistakes along the way.
- Overbaking: Watch the clock! A bit of jiggle in the center is perfect. Overbaked pie turns into a dry mass.
- Texture Issues: Ensure your filling is smooth and well combined to avoid lumps.
- Messes: Working with pie crust can get messy. Flour your surfaces generously to avoid the dreaded sticky situation!
Storing Tips
If you find yourself with leftover pie (though we doubt that will happen), it’s easy to store.
Simply cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and it can be stored at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, slice your pie into pieces, wrap them individually, and freeze for up to three months. Service it thawed, or pop it back in the oven for a delightful warm-up.
Tempt to Bake It ASAP
The joy your kitchen will bring when crafting this Dark Chocolate-Bourbon Pecan Pie is indescribable, and the smiles around your table when they take a first bite? Simply priceless.
Whether it’s for a special occasion or just because you deserve a treat, this pie is begging to be made. Don’t wait—ignite your culinary skills, and envelop yourself in this indulgent experience today!
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought pie crust?
Absolutely! For a quicker option, a store-bought crust works just fine.
2. What if I don’t like bourbon?
You can substitute bourbon with a splash of vanilla extract or omit it entirely for those who prefer an alcohol-free dessert.
3. How do I know when the pie is done?
The edges will be set while the center will have a slight jiggle. It will firm up as it cools.
4. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Feel free! Milk chocolate will lend a sweeter flavor, so adjust your sugars accordingly if needed.
5. What can I serve this pie with?
Serve it warm or chilled with whipped cream, ice cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent experience.
Let the baking begin! 🍰
PrintDark Chocolate-Bourbon Pecan Pie
A rich and indulgent pie featuring dark chocolate, caramelized pecans, and a hint of bourbon, perfect for gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Total Time: 80 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 Basic Pie Crust
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup butter, browned and cooled slightly
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup dark brown sugar
- 1 Tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 Tbsp whole milk
- 1 Tbsp bourbon
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecans, chopped
- 4 oz dark chocolate, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees. Roll out your pie dough into a 12-inch circle, gently fit it into your pie dish, and bake until lightly golden (about 15 minutes).
- Increase oven temperature to 400 degrees. In a bowl, beat the eggs and gradually mix in browned butter, granulated sugar, and dark brown sugar until smooth. Stir in flour, milk, bourbon, and vanilla extract. Fold in pecans and dark chocolate.
- Pour the mixture into the par-baked crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then reduce temperature to 325 degrees and continue baking until set (40-50 minutes).
- Let the pie cool completely before slicing to maintain a gooey texture.
Notes
For a decadent twist, serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Sprinkle with sea salt for added flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 90mg