Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars

Name: Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars That You'll Love to Bake!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup chopped pecans; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Posted on August 24, 2025

Sweet Treats

Introduction to Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars

As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to baking. That’s why I absolutely adore these Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars. They’re not just a dessert; they’re a delightful treat that combines rich chocolate and crunchy pecans in every bite. Perfect for a quick solution on a hectic day or a sweet surprise for your loved ones, these bars are sure to impress. Plus, they come together in just 45 minutes! Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your baking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars

These Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars are a dream come true for busy cooks like us. They’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or a cozy family dessert. The combination of chocolate and pecans creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Plus, they bake in just 30 minutes, so you can enjoy a delicious treat without spending hours in the kitchen. What’s not to love?

Ingredients for Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: This is the base of your bars, providing structure and a soft texture.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: It adds a rich chocolate flavor, making these bars irresistibly decadent.

Granulated sugar: This sweetens the bars and balances the bitterness of the cocoa.
Brown sugar: It brings a hint of caramel flavor and moisture, enhancing the overall taste.

Unsalted butter: Melted butter gives the bars a rich, buttery flavor and helps bind the ingredients together.
Large eggs: Eggs provide moisture and act as a binding agent, ensuring your bars hold together beautifully.
Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla elevates the flavor, adding warmth and depth.

Chopped pecans: These add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, making each bite a treat.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips: They melt into gooey pockets of chocolate, creating a luscious texture.

For those who want to experiment, consider using dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor. If you’re short on time, you can also substitute the pecans with walnuts or even skip the nuts altogether. All ingredient quantities are listed at the bottom of the article for easy reference and printing!

How to Make Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dessert in no time.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures your bars bake evenly. While the oven warms up, grab a 9×13 inch baking pan and grease it well. You can use butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Trust me, you don’t want to lose any of that deliciousness!

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Whisk them together until they’re well blended. This step is important because it helps distribute the cocoa and sugars evenly, ensuring every bite is perfectly sweet and chocolatey. No one likes a clump of cocoa powder in their dessert!

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Next, it’s time to add the wet ingredients. Pour in the melted unsalted butter, crack in the large eggs, and add the vanilla extract. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. This is where the magic happens! The melted butter will give your bars that rich flavor, while the eggs help bind everything together.

Step 4: Fold in Pecans and Chocolate Chips

Now, gently fold in the chopped pecans and semi-sweet chocolate chips. Use a spatula to carefully combine them without overmixing. Folding helps maintain the texture of the batter, keeping it light and fluffy. Plus, you want those chocolate chips to stay intact for gooey pockets of chocolate in every bite!

Step 5: Pour and Spread the Batter

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the pan. This ensures that every piece bakes uniformly. If you want to get fancy, you can sprinkle a few extra chocolate chips on top for a beautiful finish. Who doesn’t love a little extra chocolate?

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pop the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your bars are ready! Once baked, let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Cooling is key; it helps the bars set up nicely, making them easier to cut.

Tips for Success

Measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.
Don’t skip preheating the oven; it’s essential for even baking.
Let the bars cool completely before cutting to avoid crumbling.

Use parchment paper for easy removal from the pan.
Experiment with different nuts or chocolate types for unique flavors.

Equipment Needed

9×13 inch baking pan: A standard size for these bars; you can use a glass or metal pan.
Mixing bowls: A large bowl for dry ingredients and a medium bowl for wet ingredients.

Whisk: Perfect for blending dry ingredients; a fork works too!
Spatula: Great for folding and spreading the batter evenly.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.

Variations of Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars

Dark Chocolate Delight: Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
Nut-Free Option: Omit the pecans entirely or replace them with sunflower seeds for a nut-free treat.

Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these bars suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
Caramel Swirl: Drizzle caramel sauce over the batter before baking for a sweet, gooey twist.
Mint Chocolate: Add a few drops of peppermint extract for a refreshing minty flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate.

Serving Suggestions for Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
Pair with a rich cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk to enhance the flavors.
Dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.
Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of chopped pecans for added texture.

FAQs about Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars

As you embark on your baking adventure with these Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries I’ve encountered, along with helpful answers to guide you along the way.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars can be made a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They taste just as delicious the next day, if not better!

What can I substitute for pecans?

If you’re not a fan of pecans, walnuts or almonds work beautifully as substitutes. You can even skip the nuts altogether for a nut-free version!

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them.

Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, you can freeze these bars! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months. Thaw them in the fridge before serving.

What’s the best way to cut these bars?

For clean cuts, let the bars cool completely before slicing. Using a sharp knife dipped in hot water can help achieve those perfect squares. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Final Thoughts

Baking these Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars is more than just a culinary task; it’s a joyful experience that brings warmth to your kitchen. The rich aroma of chocolate mingling with the nutty scent of pecans fills the air, creating a cozy atmosphere that invites everyone to gather around. Each bite is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a perfect treat for family gatherings or a simple weeknight dessert. I hope you find as much joy in baking and sharing these bars as I do. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with love and laughter!