National Chocolate Pecan Pie Day

It's National Chocolate Pecan Pie Day, just another reason to celebrate. I had several different recipes for Derby Pie that use pecans. July 12 was National Pecan Pie Day, so I just had to make that a Chocolate Pecan Pie. That was an adaptation of Derby Pie and included bourbon.

So today, I thought I'd give a recipe that's quick and easy. First, use a frozen crust. I like Trader Joe's frozen pie crusts, but Pillsbury or another will work. Of course, you can always make your own.

Chocolate Pecan Pie

1 unbaked 9″ pie crust
1/2 cup butter
1 cup sugar
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. vanilla
1 cup light Karo syrup
3 large eggs, beaten
1 1/2 tsp. fresh lemon juice
1 cup pecan halves
1 cup broken up dark chocolate or chocolate chips.
(you can add 2 tbsp of good bourbon if you're so inclined)

In a saucepan, brown butter until golden. Don’t let it burn. Set aside to cool. Then add sugar, salt, vanilla, syrup and eggs. Mix well. Add lemon juice, pecans and chocolate pieces/chips.
Pour into unbaked pie shell and bake at 425 for 10 minutes. Then, reduce heat to 325 and bake for 55 minutes.

When you serve, top with real whipped cream!

You'll love this pie! Have a great National Chocolate Pecan Pie Day today!