If you are on the hunt for a dessert that brings irresistible fudgy richness together with a buttery, nutty crunch, then look no further. This Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe is pure magic on a plate—imagine deeply chocolatey brownies topped with a luscious, gooey pecan pie layer that just melts in your mouth. Every bite delivers a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that feels both decadent and comforting, making it an instant favorite for any occasion from casual family dinners to festive celebrations.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating this Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe is wonderfully simple thanks to a handful of ingredients, each chosen to build the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. From rich dark chocolate to crunchy pecans, every component plays its part in crafting layers of flavor you’ll crave over and over.
- Dark chocolate (70% cocoa, 200 g/7 oz): Provides the intense chocolaty base that’s fudgy and decadent.
- Unsalted butter (170 g for brownies, 115 g melted for topping): Adds richness and moistness to ensure the brownies stay tender and the topping buttery.
- Granulated sugar (200 g/1 cup): Sweetens the chocolate base to bring out its depth.
- Brown sugar (150 g/3/4 cup packed): Gives the pecan pie topping that characteristic caramel-like warmth.
- Eggs (6 large total): Bind the batter and topping while adding structure and moisture.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances all the flavors with a gentle, sweet aroma.
- All-purpose flour (130 g/1 cup): Provides just enough structure to keep brownies fudgy but not cakey.
- Light corn syrup (180 ml/3/4 cup): Brings that sticky, glossy texture characteristic of pecan pie topping.
- Chopped pecans (250 g/2 cups): Deliver a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor signature to pecan pie.
- Salt (1/4 tsp for brownies + 1/4 tsp for topping): Balances sweetness and intensifies all the flavors.
- Optional bourbon (2 tbsp): Adds a subtle, sophisticated warmth that makes this recipe feel extra special.
How to Make Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s at the perfect temperature once your batter is ready. Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper; this will help you lift out the brownies easily once baked and keep everything tidy.
Step 2: Create the Brownie Base
Set a heatproof bowl over simmering water and melt together the dark chocolate and butter. This gentle melting method ensures a smooth and shiny chocolate mixture without burning. Once melted, remove from heat and whisk in the granulated sugar until fully combined. Next, add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition to create a luscious, emulsified batter. Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse subtle sweetness before gently folding in the all-purpose flour and salt — just until blended to keep those brownies perfectly fudgy. Pour this rich batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
Step 3: Prepare the Pecan Pie Topping
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, light corn syrup, brown sugar, and eggs to form a smooth, glossy mixture. Stir in the chopped pecans and salt, and if you like a little extra depth, add that optional splash of bourbon here. Gently pour the pecan pie topping over the brownie base, spreading it evenly or simply letting it ripple naturally for rustic appeal.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Transfer your pan to the oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes. Keep an eye on it — you want the edges to be set and golden but the center should still have a slight jiggle, guaranteeing a gooey, chewy texture that’s absolute perfection. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing so the layers set nicely and the squares hold their shape.
How to Serve Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate these brownies even more, sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar or drizzle with caramel sauce for extra indulgence. A few toasted pecan halves on top add a decorative crunch that hints at the nutty treasure inside.
Side Dishes
These brownies pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to contrast the rich chocolate and sticky pecan topping. A cup of strong coffee or a glass of chilled milk is the classic way to complete this heavenly treat.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or special occasions, cut the brownies into small bite-sized squares and serve on a fancy platter with toothpicks. Alternatively, layer chunks in dessert parfaits with whipped cream and fresh berries for an elegant-looking yet incredibly easy dessert option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover the brownies tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. They stay deliciously moist at room temperature for up to 3 days, perfect for when you want to savor them slowly without rushing.
Freezing
If you want to save these for later, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen brownies can last up to 3 months and thaw beautifully at room temperature with minimal texture change.
Reheating
Warm leftover brownies gently in the microwave for about 15 seconds or until just warmed through. This brings that gooey pecan pie topping back to life without drying out the chocolate base—almost like fresh from the oven!
FAQs
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate for the brownies?
Absolutely! Milk chocolate will make the brownies sweeter and creamier, though they might lose a bit of the deep, intense chocolate flavor that dark chocolate provides.
Is it necessary to use corn syrup in the pecan topping?
Corn syrup helps create that classic glossy, sticky texture typical of pecan pie. You can substitute with honey or maple syrup, but expect slight differences in texture and flavor.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for proper texture.
Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?
You can prepare the brownie base and pecan topping separately and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, but assemble and bake only when ready to ensure freshness and optimal texture.
Why do the brownies need to have a slight jiggle when done baking?
A slight jiggle in the center means the brownies will be fudgy and moist once cooled. Overbaking can lead to dry, cakey brownies, so pulling them out just before they seem fully set is key.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say the Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe is one of those treasure desserts that you’ll find yourself making again and again. The way the gooey pecan topping complements the fudgy chocolate base creates a symphony of textures and flavors that’s hard to resist. So grab these simple ingredients, dive into the fun process, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a dessert experience that’s nothing short of spectacular.
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Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
Description
Decadent Pecan Pie Brownies combine a rich chocolate brownie base with a gooey pecan pie topping, creating a perfect balance of fudgy and nutty flavors. This delightful dessert is ideal for gatherings and celebrations, offering a unique twist on traditional brownies.
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 200 g (7 oz) dark chocolate (70% cocoa), chopped
- 170 g (3/4 cup) unsalted butter
- 200 g (1 cup) granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 130 g (1 cup) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
Pecan Pie Topping
- 115 g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, melted
- 180 ml (3/4 cup) light corn syrup
- 150 g (3/4 cup) packed brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 250 g (2 cups) pecans, roughly chopped
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Optional: 2 tbsp bourbon
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy removal of the brownies.
- Prepare Brownie Base – Melt Chocolate and Butter: In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate and unsalted butter together over simmering water until completely smooth and combined, then remove from heat.
- Incorporate Sugar: Whisk the granulated sugar into the melted chocolate mixture until thoroughly combined and glossy.
- Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, whisking vigorously after each addition to form a smooth batter.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
- Fold in Dry Ingredients: Gently fold in the all-purpose flour and salt until just combined, taking care not to overmix to keep the brownies tender.
- Pour Brownie Batter: Pour the brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking pan and spread it out smoothly with a spatula.
- Prepare Pecan Pie Topping – Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, light corn syrup, brown sugar, and eggs until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Add Pecans and Salt: Stir in the roughly chopped pecans, salt, and optional bourbon to add depth of flavor to the topping.
- Top Brownie Base: Gently pour the pecan pie mixture evenly over the brownie batter in the pan, distributing it carefully.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center has a slight jiggle, indicating a fudgy texture.
- Cool: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares to let the topping set properly for clean slices.
Notes
- You can substitute bourbon with vanilla extract if preferred or omit for a non-alcoholic version.
- For a crunchier topping, toast the pecans lightly before mixing.
- Ensure not to overbake to maintain a soft, gooey center.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- These brownies can be served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
