Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars

Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars combine the rich flavor of chocolate with the nutty crunch of pecans, a beloved dessert that holds a special place in Southern cuisine. These bars are a sumptuous twist on the traditional pecan pie, elevating the classic with a decadent chocolate filling and fudgy layers that deliver an irresistible combination of sweetness and texture.

What You’ll Need for Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars

Creating this tempting dessert requires a few key ingredients that come together beautifully. Below is a comprehensive list, highlighting everything you need to create the perfect Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars.

Complete Ingredients List

• 1½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs (or use graham crackers + 2 tbsp cocoa)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup packed brown sugar
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Optional topping: whole pecans, chocolate chunks, ganache drizzle

Ingredient Substitutions & Alternatives

• Crust: Use gluten-free cookies for a GF version.
• Corn Syrup: Maple syrup or agave can work as natural substitutes.
• Eggs: For vegan bars, use flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water per egg).
• Cocoa Powder: Dutch-processed or carob powder are great alternatives.
• Chocolate Chips: Dark or dairy-free chips suit various diets.

this recipe

How to Make Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Mix the cookie crumbs and melted butter. Press into a parchment-lined 9×9-inch baking pan and chill while you prep the filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, whisk the eggs. Add corn syrup, sugars, cocoa powder, vanilla, and salt. Mix until smooth and glossy.

Step 3: Stir in the Pecans and Chocolate

Fold in the chopped pecans and chocolate chips evenly throughout the mixture.

Step 4: Pour, Top with More Pecans, and Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the filling over the crust, then sprinkle additional chopped or whole pecans generously on top for extra crunch and visual appeal. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Let cool completely.

Step 5: Add the Toppings

Top with a layer of ganache or melted chocolate, sprinkle chopped pecans and chocolate chunks, and press in whole pecans. Chill to set before slicing.

Serving Suggestions for Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars

How to Serve

These bars are best at room temperature or slightly chilled. For an ultra-rich treat, top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Perfect Pairings & Toppings

Drizzle with caramel or chocolate sauce, sprinkle with flaky sea salt, or serve alongside fresh berries for balance.

Storing & Preserving Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars

Best Storage Methods

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze tightly wrapped bars for up to 3 months.

Reheating or Freezing Tips

Thaw frozen bars overnight in the fridge. To serve warm, microwave individual pieces for 10–15 seconds.

Tips for Perfect Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars Every Time

Avoid These Common Mistakes

• Overbaking: Watch closely—overbaking leads to dry, crumbly bars.
• Not Cooling: Allow bars to cool completely before slicing for clean edges.
• Uneven Distribution: Stir the pecans and chocolate evenly to prevent unbalanced bites.

Helpful Tricks for Success

• Use room-temperature eggs and ingredients for smooth mixing.
• Line the pan with parchment paper for easy lifting and slicing.
• Chill bars before slicing for neater edges.

Fun Variations of Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars

Flavor Variations or Recipe Twists

• Caramel Swirl: Drizzle caramel before baking or after cooling.
• Spicy Kick: Add cinnamon or cayenne for warmth and depth.
• Nut Medley: Mix in hazelnuts or walnuts for a twist on the classic.

Dietary-Friendly Adjustments

• Vegan: Use flax eggs and dairy-free chocolate.
• Keto: Use almond flour for crust and keto sweeteners like erythritol.
• Sugar-Free: Replace sugars with stevia or monk fruit sweetener.

FAQs

What If My Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars Don’t Turn Out Right?

If your bars are dry, they may have baked too long. If too gooey, bake them slightly longer or allow them to chill fully before cutting.

Can I Prepare This in Advance?

Yes! You can make the bars 1–2 days ahead and refrigerate. They also freeze beautifully.

What Ingredients Can I Swap?

For hard-to-find items, opt for common pantry swaps like maple syrup for corn syrup, or gluten-free cookies in the crust.

Print