Oh, let me tell you about a mouthwatering dessert from the Lone Star State – Texas Pecan Fudge Pie! This delectable treat combines the rich flavors of fudge and the satisfying crunch of pecans in one delightful pie. The recipe starts with a buttery pie crust that serves as the perfect base. Then, a luscious fudge filling, made with chocolate and sweetened condensed milk, is poured over a generous amount of chopped pecans.
As it bakes, the filling sets into a dense, gooey chocolatey goodness that is simply irresistible. Each bite is a heavenly blend of velvety fudge, nutty pecans, and the tender flakiness of the crust. Whether enjoyed warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or chilled with a dollop of whipped cream, Texas Pecan Fudge Pie is a dessert that Texan dessert lovers and chocolate enthusiasts alike can’t get enough of!
Ingredients Needed for This Recipe
- 9-inch deep dish pre-made pie crust
- 12oz jar of Hot Fudge Sauce (e.g., Smuckers Hot Fudge Sauce)
- 3 large eggs
- 1⁄4 cup light brown sugar
- 1⁄4 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1⁄2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups chopped pecans
- 2⁄3 cups mini chocolate chips
Directions to Maker Texas Pecan Fudge Pie
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Prepare the Pie Shell: Place the pie shell on a foil-lined rimmed baking sheet for easy cleanup.
- Mix the Fudge Sauce: Microwave the hot fudge sauce for 30-40 seconds, then pour it into a large bowl.
- Combine Ingredients: Add eggs, brown sugar, heavy whipping cream, vanilla, and salt to the fudge sauce. Whisk until smooth.
- Add Pecans and Chocolate Chips: Fold in the mini chocolate chips and a third of the chopped pecans into the mixture.
- Fill the Pie Shell: Pour the batter into the pie shell and top with the remaining pecans.
- Bake: Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set.
- Cool Before Serving: Allow the pie to cool completely before serving.
Tips for Perfecting the Recipe
Quality Ingredients: The quality of ingredients, especially the hot fudge sauce and pecans, significantly impacts the flavor. Opt for high-quality brands for the best taste.
Pie Crust: If you’re using a pre-made crust, choose a buttery, flaky variety. For homemade crust enthusiasts, ensure your dough is well-chilled before rolling it out. This makes it easier to handle and results in a flakier crust.
Fudge Sauce Consistency: The hot fudge sauce should be slightly warm and fluid for easy mixing. Overheating can cause it to become too runny or alter its taste.
Egg Temperament: To avoid curdling, ensure your eggs are at room temperature before whisking them into the warm fudge sauce.
Balancing Sweetness: Since the pie is quite rich, balance the sweetness by using semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate.
Pecan Preparation: Toasting the pecans before adding them to the mix can enhance their flavor. Be careful not to burn them; a light toast is sufficient.
Baking Temperature and Time: Oven temperatures can vary. Start checking your pie around the 35-minute mark. The pie is done when the center is set but still slightly wobbly.
Cooling: Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. This helps the pie to set and flavors to meld together.
Slicing: Use a sharp, thin-bladed knife to cut the pie. Dip the knife in hot water and wipe it clean between slices for neat cuts.
Serving Suggestions
Classic Mode: Serve the pie at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Decadent Twist: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the pie and add a sprinkle of sea salt for a salted caramel version.
Holiday Serving: During the holidays, accompany each slice with a side of cinnamon or pumpkin spice ice cream.
Mini Pies: For individual servings, make mini pies using muffin tins. These are great for parties and family gatherings.
Coffee Pairing: Serve with a strong coffee or espresso to balance the sweetness of the pie.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the pie ahead of time? Yes, you can make the pie a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated and bring it to room temperature before serving.
How do I store leftovers? Wrap the pie in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Can the pie be frozen? Yes, the pie freezes well. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Is it possible to make this pie gluten-free? Absolutely! Use a gluten-free pie crust and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Can I use a different nut instead of pecans? While pecans are traditional, walnuts can be a good substitute. However, the flavor profile will change.
How do I know when the pie is perfectly baked? The pie should be slightly wobbly in the center but set around the edges. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean.
Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe? Reducing the sugar might affect the texture, but you can slightly decrease the amount if you prefer a less sweet pie.
What if I don’t have a microwave to warm the fudge sauce? You can gently warm the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
Texas Pecan Fudge Pie
INGREDIENTS
- 9- inch deep dish pre-made pie crust
- 12 oz jar of Hot Fudge Sauce e.g., Smuckers Hot Fudge Sauce
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups chopped pecans
- 2/3 cups mini chocolate chips
INSTRUCTIONS
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Prepare the Pie Shell: Place the pie shell on a foil-lined rimmed baking sheet for easy cleanup.
- Mix the Fudge Sauce: Microwave the hot fudge sauce for 30-40 seconds, then pour it into a large bowl.
- Combine Ingredients: Add eggs, brown sugar, heavy whipping cream, vanilla, and salt to the fudge sauce. Whisk until smooth.
- Add Pecans and Chocolate Chips: Fold in the mini chocolate chips and a third of the chopped pecans into the mixture.
- Fill the Pie Shell: Pour the batter into the pie shell and top with the remaining pecans.
- Bake: Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set.
- Cool Before Serving: Allow the pie to cool completely before serving.