Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars Recipe

If you’re a lover of gooey chocolate desserts and crave the warmth of Southern comfort food, Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars are about to become your new favorite treat. Imagine all the bold, decadent flavors of a classic Texas pecan pie, but in a handheld, chocolate-loaded bar that’s perfect for sharing (or not!). These bars blend buttery chocolate cookie crust, rich cocoa filling, crunchy pecans, and melted chocolate chips into every dreamy bite, creating a dessert that delivers nostalgia and indulgence in equal measure.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to tasting true Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars magic. Each item not only pulls its weight but brings out the best flavors, textures, and colors in these irresistible squares.

• Chocolate cookie crumbs: These form a deeply flavored, crunchy base that supports the gooey filling.
• Unsalted butter: Melted butter binds the crust together and imparts a rich, indulgent flavor.
• Large eggs: The eggs are essential for creating the signature pie texture and for helping the filling set just right.
• Light corn syrup: This brings classic pecan pie sweetness and that sticky, chewy consistency we adore.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness while balancing the chocolate and nutty flavors.
• Packed brown sugar: Introduces deep caramel notes and helps keep the bars moist.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: Delivers bold, pure chocolate flavor that permeates every layer.
• Chopped pecans: Provides the Texas signature crunch and toasty, buttery nuttiness.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Add little puddles of melty chocolate goodness throughout the bars.
• Vanilla extract: Lends warmth and rounds out all the flavors to perfection.
• Salt: Enhances and balances the sweetness, ensuring every bite is irresistible.
• Optional toppings: Whole pecans, chocolate chunks, or a ganache drizzle elevate both presentation and decadence!

How to Make Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting a little extra hang over the edges for easy removal. This simple prep step keeps the bars from sticking and promises perfectly neat slices later on.

Step 2: Make the Chocolate Cookie Crust

Mix your chocolate cookie crumbs (or graham crackers with added cocoa) with melted butter in a bowl, stirring until all the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press this mixture into the bottom of your prepared pan with the back of a spoon or your fingertips, creating a tight, even layer. Pop the pan in the fridge while you tackle the filling—the chill helps the crust set up nicely.

Step 3: Whip Up the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs until blended. Add in the light corn syrup, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until the filling is smooth, glossy, and lump-free—the cocoa should be fully dissolved, giving you a decadent, chocolatey base.

Step 4: Add the Pecans and Chocolate Chips

Fold in the chopped pecans and semi-sweet chocolate chips. Make sure they’re evenly distributed so every bite of your Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars delivers that irresistible crunch and a burst of melty chocolate.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Pour the fudgy filling over your chilled crust, using a spatula to spread it gently to the corners. For a show-stopping finish, sprinkle more chopped or whole pecans over the top. Bake for 35–40 minutes—edges should be set and the center slightly jiggly, much like a classic pecan pie. Don’t worry; it will finish setting as it cools!

Step 6: Cool and Top

Let the bars cool completely in the pan to make sure they slice up neatly. If you want to go all-out, drizzle the top with ganache or melted chocolate, press in a few whole pecans, and scatter with chocolate chunks. For the cleanest slices, chill until everything is nice and firm before cutting into squares.

How to Serve Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars

Garnishes

These bars need very little to shine, but a ganache drizzle, a few extra whole pecans, or a sprinkle of chocolate chips can make them even more irresistible. For a festive touch, add a pinch of flaky sea salt or some edible gold dust at serving time!

Side Dishes

For a dessert spread with true Southern flair, try pairing your Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars with fresh berries, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a dollop of whipped cream. Their rich chocolate and nutty flavors practically beg to be paired with something cool and creamy.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars on a rustic wooden board for a casual gathering, or arrange them on a tiered stand for an elegant dessert table. Wrap individual bars in parchment and tie with twine for a sweet gift, or cut them into mini squares and skewer with cocktail picks for a party-friendly bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cool, place your Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days at room temperature or a week in the fridge. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to keep those beautiful tops intact.

Freezing

Want to savor that Texas goodness for weeks to come? Freeze individual bars by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, or at room temperature for a treat any time you crave it.

Reheating

If you love your Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars a little warm and gooey, pop them in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or heat gently in the oven at 300°F for just a few minutes. This wakes up the flavors and gives you melt-in-your-mouth chocolate once again!

FAQs

Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet chips?

Absolutely! Swapping in dark chocolate chips will make your Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars richer and a bit less sweet, perfect for serious chocoholics. Just keep the measurement the same for best results.

What’s the best way to slice the bars cleanly?

For picture-perfect squares, make sure the bars are totally cooled and chilled. Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts—this helps prevent sticking and messy edges.

Are these bars gluten-free?

As written, these Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars use cookie crumbs or graham crackers that usually contain gluten. For a gluten-free option, substitute gluten-free cookies in equal measure for a safe and still-delicious treat!

Can I make these ahead for a party?

Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars are actually better when made a day ahead. They set up beautifully overnight, making slicing and serving a breeze—just keep them chilled until you’re ready to dazzle your guests.

Can I add other mix-ins?

Definitely! Try swirling in a little caramel, adding toffee bits, or even tossing in some dried cherries to personalize these bars. Just don’t overload the filling or it might not set as well.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars—the gooey filling, the nutty crunch, the layers of chocolate, and the big Southern energy. Whether you’re baking for a potluck or just because, this is one treat you’ve simply got to try. Gather your ingredients, share a batch with friends, and watch as everyone asks for the recipe!

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