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If you’re a fan of rich, fudgy brownies and the nutty, caramelized goodness of pecan pie, then you’re in for a real treat! This Pecan Pie Brownies recipe is the ultimate dessert mash-up, combining two of the most beloved treats into one indulgent bite. Perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or whenever you’re craving something extra special, these brownies are sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love These Pecan Pie Brownies
There’s so much to adore about these brownies, it’s hard to know where to start! First, they’re incredibly rich and flavorful. The brownie layer is perfectly fudgy with a deep chocolate flavor, while the pecan pie topping adds a sweet, nutty crunch that’s simply irresistible. Plus, the combination of textures—soft and chewy brownies with a slightly crisp pecan layer—creates a dessert that’s anything but boring!
Imagine biting into a square of these beauties: your teeth sink into the moist, chocolatey brownie, and then you’re greeted with the sweet, buttery crunch of pecan pie filling. The contrast in flavors and textures is pure magic. And the smell when these are in the oven? Absolutely divine!!
These brownies are also surprisingly easy to make. The recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, and the steps are straightforward, even for beginner bakers.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Brownie Layer:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
For the Pecan Pie Layer:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup corn syrup
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
Tools You’ll Need
- 8×8-inch baking pan: The perfect size for thick, decadent brownies.
- Parchment paper: Makes it easier to remove the brownies from the pan.
- Mixing bowls: You’ll need one large bowl for the brownie layer and a medium bowl for the pecan pie layer.
- Whisk and spatula: Essential for mixing the ingredients smoothly.
How to Make Pecan Pie Brownies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This will make it easier to lift the brownies out of the pan once they’re done.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Layer
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder, and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep that fudgy texture! Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
Step 3: Partially Bake the Brownies
Bake the brownie layer for about 15 minutes. This partial baking will help the layers stay distinct and ensure the brownie base doesn’t get too soggy when the pecan pie layer is added.
Step 4: Prepare the Pecan Pie Layer
While the brownie layer is baking, prepare the pecan pie topping. In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, corn syrup, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter until fully combined. Stir in the chopped pecans, making sure they’re evenly coated.
Step 5: Add the Pecan Layer
Carefully pour the pecan mixture over the partially baked brownie layer, spreading it out evenly. Be gentle so you don’t disturb the brownie layer underneath.
Step 6: Finish Baking
Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the pecan pie layer is set and golden. You’ll know it’s done when the center is no longer jiggly and the edges are lightly browned.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. This cooling period is crucial as it helps the layers to set and makes the brownies easier to slice.
Tips for the Best Pecan Pie Brownies
- Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on the brownies during the second bake. You want the pecan layer to be set, but overbaking can make the brownie layer too dry.
- Customize your pecans: While chopped pecans are the classic choice, you can experiment with adding some whole pecans on top for a beautiful presentation.
- Serve warm: These brownies are incredible on their own, but serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes them to a whole new level of indulgence.
Storing Your Brownies
These Pecan Pie Brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. For the freshest taste, warm them slightly before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dark corn syrup instead of light corn syrup?
Yes, dark corn syrup will add a deeper flavor and richer color to the pecan pie layer. Feel free to use whichever you prefer!
Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Absolutely! These brownies can be made a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container and they’ll be perfect for serving the next day.
What if I don’t have pecans?
While pecans are traditional, you can substitute walnuts for a slightly different but equally delicious flavor.
Conclusion: A Dessert Worth Savoring
These Pecan Pie Brownies are the perfect fusion of two classic desserts, creating a treat that’s both rich and satisfying. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because you deserve something sweet, these brownies will not disappoint. I can’t wait for you to try them!
Looking for more irresistible dessert ideas? Check out my recipes for Pumpkin Pie Brulee with Vanilla Whipped Cream, Venison Jalapeno Cheddar Summer Sausage, and Quick and Easy Chicken Ranch Wrap for more deliciously decadent treats.
Did you make this recipe? I’d love to see your creations! Share your photos on Pinterest and tag me so I can see how they turned out. Happy baking! 🍰
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 4g
- Sugar: 25g
Remember, these numbers are estimates and can vary based on the exact ingredients and portion sizes used. Enjoy in moderation—or not, I won’t judge! 😉
Pecan Pie Brownies: A Decadent Twist on a Classic Dessert! 🍫🥧
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Pecan Pie Brownies are the ultimate dessert mash-up, combining the rich, fudgy texture of brownies with the sweet, nutty crunch of pecan pie. Perfect for holidays or any special occasion, these indulgent treats are a crowd-pleaser and surprisingly easy to make!
Ingredients
For the Brownie Layer:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
For the Pecan Pie Layer:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup corn syrup
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder, and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for about 15 minutes.
- While the brownie layer bakes, prepare the pecan pie topping. In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, corn syrup, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Stir in the chopped pecans.
- Carefully pour the pecan mixture over the partially baked brownie layer, spreading it out evenly.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the pecan pie layer is set and golden.
- Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares.
Notes
- For an extra indulgent treat, serve these brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- These brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
- Feel free to substitute walnuts for pecans if you prefer, or add whole pecans on top for a decorative finish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg