Fun Holiday – Chocolate Pecan Pie Day

A variant of the pecan pie, chocolate pecan pie is made by baking a mix of pecans, chocolate, eggs, and sugar syrup or honey over a pie crust.

A Rich History

Considered to be a quintessential southern US dessert and usually served during Thanksgiving and at Christmas time, the pecan pie is thought to have evolved from treacle pies popular during the middle ages in Europe and molasses pies popular in the U.S. during the 19th century.

Very little is known about the invention of the pecan pie - no mention of it was made in cookbooks until the early 20th century, but some food historians credit the French in New Orleans for creating it after being introduced to the pecan nut by Native Americans.

Healthful Nuts

Native to Mexico and the southern United States, pecans are some of the healthiest nuts out there. They are a good source of proteins and magnesium, and are full of antioxidants. They are also known to lower the risk of heart disease and some forms of cancer.

How to Celebrate?

• With lots of chocolate pecan pie, of course! With all the health benefits pecans have to offer, you can indulge in a slice or 2 guiltlessly.
• Make a chocolate pecan pie from scratch and share with your family and friends. Try different variations of this classic. Add a dash of cayenne for a Mexican twist or a splash of bourbon to elevate the flavors.
• Don't want to make a pie? What about making a chocolate pecan pie cheesecake or a chocolate pecan pie milkshake?

Did You Know…

…that pecans are technically drupes not nuts? Drupes are fruits where the seeds are covered by the flesh of the fruit. The seed is the edible part of the fruit and is called the pecan nut. Coffee, pistachios, coconuts, and olives are all drupes.