Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie

Q: What chocolate works best: chips, chunks, or bars?

Chopped chocolate bars or bittersweet chocolate chunks melt more smoothly into the filling, creating a luscious texture. Chocolate chips can work too, but they tend to hold their shape, so choose based on whether you want melty ribbons or bite-sized bursts.

Q: How do I know when my pecan pie is done baking?

Look for a gently puffed filling that jiggles slightly in the center. A knife inserted an inch from the edge should come out clean. The center will continue setting as it cools. Overbaking leads to a dry, cracked filling—so pull it out when it’s just shy of fully set.

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When it comes to show-stopping Southern desserts, few pies compete with the rich, gooey indulgence of Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie. This boozy, chocolatey spin on a traditional pecan pie brings together the sweet nuttiness of toasted pecans, the slight bitterness of semisweet chocolate, and the warming, caramel-like depth of Kentucky bourbon—all baked into a flaky, buttery crust. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just craving something special, this pie offers bold flavors and irresistible textures in every bite.
Don’t miss our homemade jelly donuts recipe if you’re looking for more sweet treats that are perfect for gatherings.

Let’s dive into why this pie deserves a place in your baking repertoire.

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Why Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie Is a Southern Favorite

A history rooted in Kentucky Derby traditions

The origins of this dessert trace back to the 1950s, just outside Louisville, Kentucky, where the original “Derby Pie” was born. Although the exact recipe remains a well-kept secret, many home bakers and chefs have embraced variations using pecans instead of walnuts and added a splash of bourbon for extra depth. This makes Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie a beloved staple for Derby parties and Southern holiday tables alike.

What sets this pie apart from regular pecan pies

Traditional pecan pies are known for their sweet, sticky centers and crunchy nut toppings. But adding chocolate and bourbon takes it to a whole new level. The semisweet chocolate melts into the filling, cutting through the sweetness with subtle bitterness. Meanwhile, bourbon adds vanilla and caramel undertones that bring a sophisticated complexity. The result? A decadent yet balanced dessert that’s not overwhelmingly sweet.

How chocolate and bourbon elevate the flavor profile

Think of this pie as pecan pie all grown up. The alcohol mostly bakes off, leaving behind rich notes of oak, spice, and sweetness from the bourbon. Paired with the earthy crunch of toasted pecans and the deep flavor of chocolate, every bite is layered, bold, and satisfying. This is why it continues to be a favorite at Thanksgiving, Christmas, and any festive event where you want to impress.

Ingredients Needed for the Ultimate Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie

Key ingredients that add depth and richness

To make the perfect Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie, you’ll need a few essential ingredients that work together to create that signature depth:

Ingredient	Purpose
Pecans (chopped and whole)	Adds crunch, nutty flavor
Semisweet or bittersweet chocolate	Provides balance and richness
Bourbon	Brings warmth and depth
Brown sugar & corn syrup	Create that sticky, gooey base
Eggs	Bind the filling and give structure
Unsalted butter	Enhances the overall flavor
Vanilla extract & salt	Round out the taste
All-purpose flour (optional)	Thickens the filling slightly

Check out our no-bake pecan pie cheesecake if you love pecan desserts with a twist!

Optional add-ins for creative variations

Want to make your version stand out? Here are a few ideas:

Espresso powder – for a mocha kick
Orange zest – brightens the chocolate flavor
Toasted coconut – adds texture and sweetness
Dark chocolate chunks – create gooey pockets of richness

These additions give you room to personalize your pie without straying too far from its Southern roots.

Substitutions for alcohol-free alternatives

If you’re baking for someone who doesn’t consume alcohol, you still have flavorful options. Replace the bourbon with:

Strong brewed espresso – similar depth without the booze
Maple syrup with vanilla extract – sweet and aromatic
Non-alcoholic bourbon extract – mimics the flavor without the alcohol

These swaps keep the dessert family-friendly while preserving its luxurious taste.

Looking for inspiration? Try our chessman banana pudding dessert for another Southern favorite that’s big on comfort and flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie

Preparing the homemade buttery pie crust

A solid base makes or breaks any pie, and for Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie, an all-butter pie crust offers both flavor and structure. Here’s how to make it:

Pulse together 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon salt, and 1 tablespoon sugar in a food processor.
Add ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed, and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Slowly drizzle in 3–4 tablespoons of ice water just until the dough comes together.
Shape into a disc, wrap in plastic, and chill for 1 hour.

Once chilled, roll the dough out on a floured surface and transfer to a 9-inch pie plate. Trim the edges, crimp decoratively, and refrigerate while you prepare the filling.
Don’t miss our homemade pumpkin pie spice recipe if you’re baking this for fall or Thanksgiving gatherings.

Mixing the filling with precision and balance

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

3 large eggs
½ cup packed light brown sugar
1 cup light corn syrup
2 tablespoons bourbon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt

Then stir in:

1 ½ cups chopped pecans
¾ cup semisweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
2 tablespoons melted butter

Pour the mixture into the chilled crust. For a stunning finish, arrange whole pecans on top before baking.

Baking tips for perfect texture and flavor

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the pie for 50 to 60 minutes, until the center is just set and a slight jiggle remains. If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil in the last 15 minutes.

Let cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours before slicing. This rest time allows the filling to fully set for clean, neat slices.

Check out our apple bread pudding recipe for another cozy dessert that pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream.

Expert Tips for Getting It Just Right

Preventing a soggy crust or overbaked filling

To avoid a soggy bottom, blind bake your crust for 10 minutes before adding the filling. Just line it with parchment and fill with pie weights or dried beans. For the filling, avoid overbaking—pull the pie when the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly.

How to achieve the ideal balance of gooey and firm

The magic of a great Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie lies in its gooey yet sliceable texture. To hit that sweet spot:

Use room temperature eggs
Don’t overmix the filling (air bubbles cause cracking)
Let the pie cool completely before serving

Discover great ideas like our no-bake pumpkin cheesecake recipe for another dessert that nails the creamy-firm balance.

Presentation tips for a picture-perfect dessert

Save a few whole pecans to decorate the top before baking
Brush crust edges lightly with egg wash for a golden finish
Serve slices with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or bourbon-spiked whipped topping

Looking for inspiration? Try our cranberry pecan pumpkin bread recipe if you want a festive flavor profile in loaf form.

Make-Ahead and Storage Guide

Freezing the pie crust and filling for later use

Want to prep ahead? Here’s how:

Pie crust: Wrap well and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw in fridge overnight.
Filling: Prep and store covered in the fridge for 24 hours max before using.

How to reheat without ruining texture

If making ahead, reheat the baked pie at 325°F for 10–15 minutes, uncovered. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy.

Shelf-life and best storage practices

Store leftovers at room temp for up to 1 day
Refrigerate up to 4 days in a sealed container
For longer storage, wrap slices and freeze up to 2 months

FAQs About Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie

Does the alcohol bake out of bourbon pecan pie?

Yes. While bourbon is a key ingredient for flavor, most of the alcohol evaporates during baking, leaving behind warm notes of caramel and vanilla. It’s safe for most people, but if you’re cooking for kids or those avoiding alcohol, try imitation bourbon extract or a strong espresso as a substitute.

Can I use store-bought crust for this recipe?

Absolutely. While homemade crust gives you the best flavor and texture, pre-made pie shells can save time—especially for busy holidays. Just make sure to prebake the crust for 10 minutes to prevent a soggy bottom.

What chocolate works best: chips, chunks, or bars?

Chopped chocolate bars or bittersweet chocolate chunks melt more smoothly into the filling, creating a luscious texture. Chocolate chips can work too, but they tend to hold their shape, so choose based on whether you want melty ribbons or bite-sized bursts.

How do I know when my pecan pie is done baking?

Look for a gently puffed filling that jiggles slightly in the center. A knife inserted an inch from the edge should come out clean. The center will continue setting as it cools. Overbaking leads to a dry, cracked filling—so pull it out when it’s just shy of fully set.

Conclusion: Why You’ll Fall in Love With This Boozy Southern Delight

Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie isn’t just a dessert—it’s a celebration of flavor and tradition. With its rich, gooey filling, nutty crunch, chocolate depth, and warm bourbon notes, this pie is the ultimate treat for any holiday or gathering. It’s incredibly versatile, easy to make ahead, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Looking for inspiration? Try our pecan pie balls dessert recipe for a bite-sized take on your favorite fall flavors.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a pie-making newbie, this recipe is your ticket to sweet success. Serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream—or go all out with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of bourbon caramel sauce.

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