There is something utterly irresistible about a rich, gooey tart that brings together the deep flavors of chocolate and the satisfying crunch of pecans. This Chocolate Pecan Tart Recipe perfectly balances sweet and nutty in every bite, making it an absolute showstopper for any dessert table or cozy night in. With its buttery crust, molten chocolate pockets, and toasty pecans, this tart is the kind of treat you’ll find yourself craving again and again. Get ready to discover your next all-time favorite dessert that’s as simple to make as it is spectacular to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A single slice of pecan pie sits on a white plate with a white marbled background. The pie has three visible layers: a light golden, slightly crumbly crust at the bottom, a thick, dark brown rich filling in the middle that looks smooth and glossy, and a top layer richly covered with shiny, toasted pecan halves arranged closely together. There is a light dusting of powdered sugar gently scattered over the pecans, adding a touch of white contrast. The pie slice is shown in soft natural light, emphasizing the glossy and textured details of the filling and nuts, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a stunning tart that wows every time. Each component here is thoughtfully chosen to bring out the perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color, making your baking process straightforward and enjoyable.

Pre-made pie crust: A convenient base that provides a flaky, buttery foundation, saving you time without sacrificing flavor.
Chopped pecans (1 cup): Adds a delightful crunch and a rich, nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the smoothness of chocolate.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup): Offers that luscious, melty chocolate sensation that melts into the pecans for pockets of indulgence.
Unsalted butter, melted (1/2 cup): Infuses the tart with moist richness and helps bind the filling perfectly.
Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Brings a clean sweetness that balances the deeper flavors of brown sugar and chocolate.
Light brown sugar, packed (1/4 cup): Provides a hint of caramel-like depth and extra moisture in the filling.
Large eggs (2): Essential for setting the filling and giving the tart its luscious, custardy texture.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors, adding a warm, aromatic touch.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): A tiny pinch that balances sweetness and brightens the overall flavor.

How to Make Chocolate Pecan Tart Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures your tart cooks evenly, allowing the crust to become golden and the filling to set to that perfect gooey-yet-firm texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust with Pecans

Press the chopped pecans firmly and evenly into the bottom of your pre-made pie crust. The nuts create a delightful textured base that contrasts beautifully with the smooth filling and ensures a wonderful nutty crunch in every slice.

Step 3: Add Chocolate Chips

Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the pecans. These chips will melt during baking, creating rich, molten chocolate pockets that make this tart truly divine.

Step 4: Combine Butter and Sugars

In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until everything is well combined. This mixture forms the sweet and buttery heart of your tart filling.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Flavorings

Beat in the eggs one at a time to fully incorporate them, then stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. These ingredients are crucial to developing that smooth, custard-like consistency and complex flavor.

Step 6: Pour Filling into Crust

Gently pour the egg and sugar mixture over the chocolate chips and pecans in the pie crust, ensuring it spreads uniformly to cover all the nuts and chocolate for even baking and flavor distribution.

Step 7: Bake the Tart

Bake your tart for 40 to 50 minutes until the filling is set and the crust has turned a beautiful golden brown. The filling should be firm around the edges but still have a slight jiggle in the center for that perfect texture.

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Allow the tart to cool completely on a wire rack. This step is crucial for letting the filling set properly, making slicing easier and preventing it from falling apart.

How to Serve Chocolate Pecan Tart Recipe

A slice of pie with three clear layers is shown on a white plate on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a light brown, crumbly crust. The middle layer is thick, dark chocolate with a smooth texture. The top layer is darker brown and slightly crumbly, topped with whole pecans that are shiny and arranged in rows. There is a soft powder sprinkled on top of the pecans. The pie slice is angled to show its layers clearly with a blurred kitchen background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate this dessert, consider topping it with a dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of freshly whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. These additions add visual appeal and complement the tart’s rich flavors perfectly.

Side Dishes

Serve your Chocolate Pecan Tart alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a simple fresh fruit salad to balance the richness with light, refreshing notes. Coffee or a robust dark roast pairs wonderfully for a complete indulgent experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the tart into small, elegant squares or traditional wedges and serve on a vintage plate to add a touch of charm. For a party, offer mini tartlets with the same filling, making it easy for guests to enjoy one-bite delights.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover tart covered in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain moisture and prevent the crust from becoming soggy.

Freezing

You can freeze the tart before baking by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to a month. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for an easy make-ahead dessert option.

Reheating

Reheat slices gently in a low oven or microwave for a few seconds to revive that warm, gooey texture. Avoid overheating to keep the crust crisp and prevent the filling from drying out.

FAQs

Can I make this tart without a pre-made crust?

Absolutely! If you prefer homemade pie crust, a simple buttery shortcrust or graham cracker crust will work beautifully with this Chocolate Pecan Tart Recipe.

What type of chocolate works best?

Semi-sweet chocolate chips are ideal for balancing sweetness with the pecans’ nuttiness, but feel free to experiment with bittersweet or milk chocolate depending on your taste.

Can I substitute pecans with other nuts?

Yes, walnuts or almonds would make excellent substitutes, offering different textures and flavors, though pecans remain the classic choice for their rich, buttery profile.

How do I know when the tart is done?

The tart is ready when the crust is golden and the filling looks set around the edges but still has a slight jiggle in the center—similar to a perfectly set custard.

Is this tart gluten-free?

This recipe uses a pre-made pie crust, so check the packaging for gluten-free options or make your own gluten-free crust to accommodate dietary needs.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Chocolate Pecan Tart Recipe, you’ll understand why it holds a special place in my dessert rotation. It’s effortless to make, impressively indulgent, and the perfect way to share something sweet and cozy with those you love. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how that first comforting bite can brighten any day!