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Seattle Catering Person arranging pecans on chocolate tarts placed on a tray.

Holiday Recipe: Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie

There’s no better time to indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of a homemade pie! Holiday gatherings are right around the corner, and for many, that means an array of classic desserts gracing the table. This year, add a touch of elegance and depth with a dessert that blends rich chocolate, the warmth of bourbon, and the crunch of pecans.

This recipe has roots in Southern tradition, bringing a nostalgic yet refined touch to the table. Inspired by the original recipe from Chef Lisa Dupar’s days at her restaurant, Southern Accents, this pie has been a staple for good reason. The use of Georgia pecans adds authenticity and the perfect texture, while the chocolate and bourbon elevate it to a whole new level of decadence.

Seattle Catering Three pecan pies with crispy crusts and neatly arranged pecan halves on a light surface.

If you want to taste the recipe before trying to make it yourself, call us at (425) 881-3250 to place a custom order through our catering kitchen.

Ingredients

Filling:
  • 1 9-inch Pie Crust: You’ll need a flaky crust to begin, either homemade or store-bought, par-baked to ensure a perfectly crisp base.
  • 1 cup sugar
  • ½ cup corn syrup
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons molasses
  • 1 tablespoon cream
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon maple flavoring
  • 2 tablespoons bourbon
  • 3 eggs
  • 1½ cups pecan halves
Cinnamon-Spiced Whipped Cream:
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions:

  • Par-Bake the Crust: Preheat your oven to 400°F. To achieve a perfectly baked crust, use an “upside-down” method with two identical pie pans and parchment paper. To use the upside-down method, arrange the rolled-out pie dough in one of the pie pans, cover the dough with a piece of parchment paper, put the second pie pan on top of the parchment paper, and invert the pans. Bake for 15 minutes or until the crust is lightly blonde but not browned.
  • Prepare the Filling: In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, brown sugar, molasses, cream, butter, cocoa powder, vanilla, maple flavoring, and bourbon. Warm slowly over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until everything is smooth and combined; remove from the heat as soon as the mixture is smooth. Cool the mixture slightly. Beat the eggs together and whisk them into the mixture.
  • Assemble the Pie: Spread pecan halves across the par-baked crust, then pour the filling over the pecans. The pecans will float to the top as it bakes, creating a beautifully nutty crust on top of the rich chocolate-bourbon layer.
  • Bake: Lower the oven temperature to 350°F and bake the pie for about 40 minutes. Let it cool to room temperature before serving.
  • Make the Cinnamon-Spiced Whipped Cream: Combine heavy cream, powdered sugar, and cinnamon, whipping until soft peaks form. Serve each slice with a generous dollop for a sweet, spiced finish.

This unforgettable pie may just become a new family tradition – a dessert that’s loved by both traditionalists and those looking for something a bit different. So, tie on your apron, pour yourself a little extra bourbon for sipping, and bake this masterpiece that’s sure to steal the show!