Okay, let’s dive into the delicious world of the Layered Chocolate Pecan Pie, a recipe that’s become a family favorite! I remember the first time I attempted to make this Layered Chocolate Pecan Pie – it was around the holidays, and I was determined to create a dessert that wasn’t just decadent but also packed with enough nuts to feel slightly virtuous, haha! The reactions were immediate; everyone loved the combination of rich chocolate and crunchy pecans. What surprised me was how much my kids enjoyed it, and I felt like I had unlocked a small nutrition win.
This Layered Chocolate Pecan Pie isn’t just about indulging; it’s about finding that balance. It’s about offering your family something delicious that also has some nutritional value. As moms, we’re always juggling, trying to make the best choices we can. This Layered Chocolate Pecan Pie recipe is my way of contributing to that balancing act. It supports our family’s nutrition by incorporating nuts (hello, healthy fats!) and allowing us to control the sweetness. It’s a delightful addition to our wellness journey, especially during the holiday season. If you’re looking for simple nutrition ideas to feed your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen, you’re in the right place!
INGREDIENTS You’ll Need:
Here’s what you’ll need for this sanity-saving Layered Chocolate Pecan Pie:
- 1 (14.1 ounce) package refrigerated pie crusts: This is a great shortcut for us busy moms, but feel free to use your favorite homemade recipe!
- 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped: I sometimes swap this with dark chocolate for extra antioxidants.
- 1 cup pecan halves: Packed with healthy fats and satisfying crunch.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: You can reduce this slightly if you prefer a less sweet pie.
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar: Adds a lovely depth of flavor.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: This helps bring everything together.
- 3 large eggs: Provides structure and richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream: Makes the filling extra luscious
Trust me, this Layered Chocolate Pecan Pie ingredient list is simple because busy moms need nutrition without complexity! I always get my pecans from the local farmer’s market when they’re in season – you can find these wholesome ingredients at your regular grocery store too. No worries if you don’t have quite enough pecans – I sometimes add a handful of walnuts for extra nutrients in my Layered Chocolate Pecan Pie. This Layered Chocolate Pecan Pie proves nutritious doesn’t mean expensive; many of these ingredients are pantry staples! My family gets extra nutrition when I add a tablespoon of flaxseed meal to the crust dough – shhh, don’t tell the kids!
Let’s Make it Happen!
Ready to make this easy chocolate pecan pie? Here’s how we whip up this deliciousness in my kitchen:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place one pie crust into a 9-inch pie plate. Crimp the edges decoratively. This is where the fun begins!
- Melt the chocolate. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. Be careful not to burn it! I usually set a timer and take a quick break to check school emails.
- Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the bottom of the pie crust. This creates that delicious chocolate layer we all crave. Here’s where I used to struggle with my Layered Chocolate Pecan Pie – the chocolate would sometimes harden too quickly. Learn from my experience and work quickly!
- In a large bowl, combine the pecan halves, granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix well until everything is nicely combined. Your Layered Chocolate Pecan Pie should smell nourishing by now.
- Pour the pecan mixture evenly over the chocolate layer. This is where the magic happens!
- Gently pour heavy cream evenly over pecan mixture This keeps the top moist and gives another layer of flavor.
- Carefully place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. In my busy kitchen, this nutritious Layered Chocolate Pecan Pie usually takes about 50 minutes. Perfect time to prep tomorrow’s lunch!
- Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before serving. This allows the filling to set properly. Don’t worry if your Layered Chocolate Pecan Pie looks a little wobbly when you take it out – it will firm up as it cools.
- Cut, serve, and enjoy! While your Layered Chocolate Pecan Pie is cooling, take a moment to appreciate nourishing your family!
For more simple nutrition ideas for busy families, check out my zucchini chocolate chip cookies recipe, which is just as much of a crowd-pleaser!
How We Love to Eat This!
My family absolutely loves this best chocolate pecan pie, and we’ve found a few ways to make it even more enjoyable (and nutritious!). The kids devour this nutritious Layered Chocolate Pecan Pie when I serve it with a dollop of Greek yogurt – it adds a protein boost and a tangy contrast to the sweetness. Sometimes, I add a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for extra flavor and antioxidants. This Layered Chocolate Pecan Pie is perfect for those busy weeknights when we need good nutrition fast!
We also love having this homemade chocolate pecan pie as a special treat during holidays or family gatherings. It’s always a hit! For a more festive presentation, I like to arrange extra pecan halves on top in a decorative pattern before baking. If we happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), I love crumbling them over oatmeal or yogurt for a delicious and nutritious breakfast. My friend Sarah tried my Layered Chocolate Pecan Pie and said it was the best she’d ever had – she even asked for the recipe!
In the fall, I like to add a tablespoon of pumpkin puree to the pecan filling for a seasonal twist. It adds extra vitamins and a warm, comforting flavor. If your kids love this wholesome recipe, they’ll go crazy for my dark chocolate hot chocolate.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Got questions about making this Layered Chocolate Pecan Pie work for your family? I’m here to help!
Is this Layered Chocolate Pecan Pie really nutritious enough for growing kids?
Absolutely! While it’s still a dessert, the pecans provide healthy fats, fiber, and protein. You can also use dark chocolate for added antioxidants. We’re aiming for balance, not perfection!
What if my picky eater won’t try this healthy Layered Chocolate Pecan Pie?
Start small! Offer a tiny sliver and don’t pressure them. You can also try letting them help with the preparation – kids are more likely to try something they helped make. My son used to be super picky, but now he loves this pie.
Can I meal prep this Layered Chocolate Pecan Pie for busy weeks ahead?
You can definitely bake the pie ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I actually think it tastes even better the next day!
Can I freeze this Layered Chocolate Pecan Pie?
Yes, you can! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
I’m allergic to pecans. Can I use another nut?
Of course! Walnuts or almonds would work well as substitutes. Adjust the baking time as needed.
Can I make this Layered Chocolate Pecan Pie gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use a gluten-free pie crust. There are many great options available at most grocery stores.
Can I make this pie with less sugar?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar by about 1/4 cup without significantly affecting the texture or flavor. You could also try using a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey, but keep in mind that it will change the flavor slightly.
Looking for even more simple dessert recipes? You might love this homemade white hot chocolate recipe, it’s always a hit with my kids!
Final Thoughts:
This Layered Chocolate Pecan Pie has become a staple in our home because it’s a simple way to bring a little joy (and nutrition!) to our table. I hope it does the same for your family!
My Layered Chocolate Pecan Pie Nutrition Hacks:
- Dark Chocolate: I always opt for dark chocolate with at least 70% cacao for extra antioxidants.
- Nut Variety: I sometimes add a mix of pecans, walnuts, and almonds for a wider range of nutrients.
- Greek Yogurt Topping: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds protein and calcium while cutting down on the sweetness.
Family-Tested Healthy Layered Chocolate Pecan Pie Variations:
- Pumpkin Spice: Add 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree and 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice to the pecan filling.
- Maple Pecan: Use maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a more natural sweetness.
- Salted Caramel: Drizzle salted caramel sauce over the top after baking for an extra decadent treat.
My son loves the pumpkin spice version, while my daughter prefers the classic pecan chocolate layer pie. I encourage you to make this recipe your own and find the healthy variations that your family loves best. Remember, it’s about finding that balance between indulgence and nutrition! I hope this Layered Chocolate Pecan Pie helps your family create some sweet memories while nourishing their bodies. Go ahead, give it a try!
Chocolate Pecan Pie Recipe inspiration can be found in many places, so be sure to explore and find what works best for you! Other great recipes can be found on sites such as: Black Bottom Chocolate Pecan Pie » Hummingbird High, Black Bottom Pecan Pie Recipe – A Cozy Kitchen, Dulce de Leche Chocolate Pecan Pie – Pati Jinich. If you loved this , you will love the zucchini chocolate chip cookies!
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Layered Chocolate Pecan Pie
Indulge in a decadent Layered Chocolate Pecan Pie featuring a rich chocolate base topped with a classic pecan filling. This delightful pie is the perfect dessert for holidays or any special occasion.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 70 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- For the Chocolate Layer:
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate wafer crumbs
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- For the Pecan Layer:
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups pecan halves
Instructions
- Prepare the Chocolate Layer: In a medium bowl, combine chocolate wafer crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie plate.
- Prepare the Pecan Layer: In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, corn syrup, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
- Stir in the pecan halves.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the pecan mixture over the chocolate layer in the pie plate.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45-55 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover the edges with foil.
- Cool and Serve: Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Notes
Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat!