Alabama Choco-Pecan Fudge Pie

Alabama Choco-Pecan Fudge Pie Recipe - A Southern USA Delight

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

The Alabama Choco-Pecan Fudge Pie is a decadent dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and pecans in a deliciously crumbly crust. This pie is perfect for anyone looking to indulge their sweet tooth with a classic Southern treat. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a favorite at gatherings, holidays, and special occasions. Whether you're a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, this recipe offers a delightful challenge with a rewarding outcome.

History

The Alabama Choco-Pecan Fudge Pie has its roots deep in the Southern United States, where pecans are abundant and have been used in cooking and baking for centuries. The recipe is a testament to the region's love for rich, indulgent desserts. Over the years, it has been passed down through generations, with each adding their own twist to the classic. Today, it stands as a beloved dessert that embodies the warmth and hospitality of Southern cuisine.

Ingredients

1.25 cups chocolate wafers
2.33 cups butter
0.75 cups firmly packed brown sugar
3 large eggs
2.75 cups semi-sweet chocolate morsels, melted
2 tsp instant coffee granules/powder
1 tsp vanilla extract
0.5 cups flour
1 cup coarsely chopped pecans

How to prepare

Combine chocolate crumbs and 1.33 cups of melted butter.
Firmly press the mixture onto the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie pan. Bake at 350° F for 6-8 minutes.
Cream 1 cup of butter; gradually add brown sugar, beating at medium speed until well blended.
Add eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition. Stir in the melted chocolate and the next 4 ingredients.
Pour the mixture into the crust. Bake at 375° F for 25 minutes.
Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack. Garnish with whipped cream, if desired. Serve cold and plain, but cut into serving pieces using a dessert knife or a kitchen knife.

Variations

Consider these variations to put a twist on the classic recipe:
Swap the pecans for walnuts or almonds.
Add a layer of caramel between the crust and the filling.
Use dark chocolate for a more intense chocolate flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Alabama Choco-Pecan Fudge Pie turns out perfectly, consider these tips:

- Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.

- Toast the pecans lightly before adding them to the mix to enhance their nutty taste.

- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.

- Press the crust firmly into the pan to prevent it from crumbling when serving.

- Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing to ensure the filling sets properly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Alabama Choco-Pecan Fudge Pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance its richness. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of sea salt can also enhance its flavors.

Cooking Techniques

For the best results, use a double boiler to melt the chocolate, ensuring it becomes smooth without burning. When pressing the crust into the pan, use the bottom of a measuring cup to create an even layer.

Ingredient Substitutions

If necessary, you can substitute the following:

- Almond flour for regular flour (for a gluten-free option).

- Coconut oil for butter (for a dairy-free version).

- A flaxseed egg for real eggs (to make it vegan).

Make Ahead Tips

The pie can be made up to two days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together and the filling to set properly.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the pie with chocolate shavings, a sprinkle of chopped pecans, or fresh berries for a beautiful presentation. Serve each slice on a plate with a mint leaf for a touch of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Alabama Choco-Pecan Fudge Pie with a strong coffee or a glass of bourbon to complement its rich flavors. A sweet dessert wine or port also pairs beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the pie in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days. It's best enjoyed cold, but if you prefer it slightly warmed, heat it in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Alabama Choco-Pecan Fudge Pie contains approximately 510 calories. The majority of these calories come from the fats and carbohydrates in the recipe.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Alabama Choco-Pecan Fudge Pie contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbs come from the sugar and flour used in the recipe, providing the body with quick energy.

Fats

This pie is rich in fats, with each serving containing about 27 grams. The fats primarily come from the butter and chocolate, contributing to the pie's creamy texture and mouthfeel.

Proteins

Each serving of the pie offers around 5 grams of protein, mainly from the eggs and pecans. While not a high-protein dish, it provides a small boost to your daily protein intake.

Vitamins and minerals

The pie contains small amounts of vitamins and minerals, such as calcium from the butter and eggs, and magnesium and iron from the chocolate. Pecans are also a good source of zinc and vitamin E.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens such as eggs, nuts (pecans), and gluten (from flour). Those with allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients should exercise caution.

Summary

Overall, the Alabama Choco-Pecan Fudge Pie is a high-calorie, indulgent dessert. It offers a moderate amount of proteins and small amounts of vitamins and minerals. Due to its rich content of fats and sugars, it's best enjoyed in moderation.

Summary

The Alabama Choco-Pecan Fudge Pie is a sumptuous dessert that's perfect for anyone looking to indulge in the rich flavors of chocolate and pecans. With its deep Southern roots and beloved taste, it's sure to be a hit at any gathering. By following the tips and variations provided, you can make this classic pie your own and enjoy a slice of Southern hospitality.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy one. It was a sunny afternoon in Alabama, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha. She was known throughout the town for her delicious baked goods, and I was always eager to learn new recipes from her.

On this particular day, Martha greeted me with a warm smile and a twinkle in her eye. "I have a special treat for you today," she said, leading me into her cozy kitchen. As we chatted and sipped on sweet tea, Martha began pulling out ingredients from her pantry. I watched in awe as she effortlessly whipped up a batch of Alabama Choco-Pecan Fudge Pie.

The smell of chocolate and pecans filled the air, and I couldn't wait to taste the final product. Martha carefully poured the rich, gooey filling into a flaky pie crust and popped it into the oven. As the pie baked, we continued to chat and share stories of our families and friends.

Finally, the timer dinged, and Martha pulled the pie out of the oven. It was golden brown and bubbling with chocolatey goodness. We let it cool for a few minutes before slicing into it. The first bite was pure heaven - the creamy fudge filling was perfectly balanced by the crunchy pecans and flaky crust.

I couldn't believe how simple and delicious this recipe was. Martha shared with me that she had learned it from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. It was a treasured family recipe, and now I was lucky enough to have it in my own collection.

From that day on, Alabama Choco-Pecan Fudge Pie became a staple in my kitchen. I would make it for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions. Each time I served it, it was met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe.

Over the years, I have made a few tweaks to Martha's original recipe, adding my own personal touch here and there. I've experimented with different types of chocolate, varying the amount of pecans, and even trying out different crusts. But no matter how many variations I make, the essence of the pie remains the same - a rich, decadent treat that never fails to impress.

As I grew older, I continued to share this recipe with my children and grandchildren. They would gather around the kitchen as I showed them how to make the pie, passing down the tradition from one generation to the next. It was a way for me to connect with my loved ones and create lasting memories.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen, surrounded by the aromas of chocolate and pecans, I can't help but feel grateful for the simple pleasures in life. The joy of discovering a new recipe, the warmth of a friend's kitchen, and the love that goes into every bite of Alabama Choco-Pecan Fudge Pie.

So if you ever find yourself in Alabama, be sure to stop by and visit me. I'll gladly share a slice of this beloved pie with you, along with stories of how it came to be a cherished part of my culinary repertoire. And who knows, maybe you'll discover a new favorite recipe of your own.