Kentucky Derby Chocolate Pecan Tart (Printable Version)

Rich chocolate tart with pecans in a buttery crust—ideal for celebrations with a Southern twist.

# What You'll Need:

→ Pastry Crust

01 - 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
03 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
04 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
05 - 3 to 4 tablespoons ice water

→ Chocolate Pecan Filling

06 - 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
07 - 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
08 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
09 - 3 large eggs
10 - 2 tablespoons bourbon (optional)
11 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
12 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
13 - 1 cup pecan halves or pieces

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F.
02 - In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, stirring until the dough begins to come together. Shape into a disk, wrap, and refrigerate for 20 minutes.
03 - Roll chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch tart pan. Press into the pan, trim excess, and chill while preparing filling.
04 - In a large bowl, whisk together light brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, bourbon (if desired), vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
05 - Fold in semi-sweet chocolate chips and pecan halves or pieces.
06 - Pour filling into the chilled tart shell, spreading evenly.
07 - Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the center is just set and the top is golden.
08 - Cool the tart completely before slicing. Serve plain or with whipped cream for added richness.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • The secret hit of bourbon blends so smoothly it surprises even chocolate skeptics.
  • It's the kind of tart that disappears quickly at parties—no one can resist that crisp crust and gooey filling.
02 -
  • If you rush the dough without chilling, the crust will shrink and you’ll regret it!
  • Letting the filling cool before slicing keeps it from oozing everywhere and preserves those gorgeous chocolate swirls.
03 -
  • Let the tart cool completely for clean slices; warm filling will blur the layers.
  • A sprinkle of sea salt just before serving adds a magical spark.
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