If you adore the rich chocolatey goodness of brownies and the sweet, nutty delight of pecan pie, then you are absolutely going to fall in love with this Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe. It brings together the best of both worlds in one irresistible dessert, melding fudgy, moist brownie layers with a luscious pecan pie topping that crisps up beautifully. Every bite delivers a perfect balance of texture and flavor that’s sure to become a new favorite for your family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe keeps it simple yet spectacular by using straightforward ingredients that each play a crucial role. From the rich chocolate base to the gooey pecan topping, each component adds depth and character that make these brownies stand out.
- Brownie mix or homemade batter: Provides a fudgy, chocolatey foundation that’s easy to customize and deliciously rich.
- Light corn syrup: Creates that signature smooth, sticky texture in the pecan pie layer while adding sweetness.
- Brown sugar: Adds warmth and a hint of molasses flavor essential for the topping’s complexity.
- Eggs: Bind everything together perfectly and give structure to the pecan topping.
- Butter, melted: Infuses richness and helps the topping set up beautifully.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with its warm, aromatic notes.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the chocolate and nutty flavors.
- Chopped pecans: Provide an irresistible crunch and a toasty, nutty finish that makes this recipe special.
How to Make Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures your brownies will bake evenly. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to make sure your brownies come out with ease later on.
Step 2: Prepare the Brownie Base
Using either a box brownie mix or your homemade batter, prepare according to the package or recipe instructions. Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly for consistent baking.
Step 3: Partially Bake the Brownies
Bake the brownie layer for about 20 minutes. This partial bake gives the brownies enough structure to hold the pecan pie topping without getting soggy, yet stays soft beneath.
Step 4: Mix the Pecan Pie Topping
While the brownies bake, whisk together the light corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt in a mixing bowl until smooth. Then fold in the chopped pecans, making sure every nut is coated in that glossy, sweet mixture.
Step 5: Add and Bake the Topping
Carefully pour the pecan pie mixture over the partially baked brownies, spreading it gently so it covers the surface evenly. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 25 to 30 minutes until the topping is golden brown and set.
Step 6: Cooling and Slicing
After baking, let your Pecan Pie Brownies rest for at least an hour. This cooling time helps everything firm up well, making slicing a breeze and preserving those beautiful layers intact.
How to Serve Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of indulgence, sprinkle a few chopped pecans on top just before serving or dust lightly with powdered sugar. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side complements these brownies wonderfully and adds a creamy contrast to the crunchy pecans.
Side Dishes
Keep it simple with fresh seasonal berries or a vibrant fruit salad to balance the richness of these brownies. A hot cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk also pairs perfectly with the flavors and textures in this recipe.
Creative Ways to Present
For entertaining, serve individual brownies in small decorative paper cups or stack them on a tiered dessert tray for a stunning display. You can even drizzle melted caramel or chocolate sauce over the top for a dazzling finish that guests won’t forget.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Pecan Pie Brownies keep beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This means you can prepare them ahead for parties or simply enjoy them over a few days without sacrificing freshness.
Freezing
If you want to keep these brownies for longer, freeze them in tightly wrapped foil or freezer-safe containers for up to two months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before serving, and they’ll taste just as delicious as fresh.
Reheating
To enjoy warm brownies, microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds or warm in a low oven (300°F/150°C) for 5 to 10 minutes. This will bring back the gooey, melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes this Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe so special.
FAQs
Can I use homemade brownies instead of a mix?
Absolutely! The Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe works wonderfully with homemade brownie batter. The key is the fudgy consistency, so feel free to follow your personal favorite recipe for an even more special touch.
What type of pecans should I use?
Chopped raw or roasted pecans both work well. Roasting them slightly deepens their flavor, but raw pecans offer a fresh crunch. Just make sure to chop them evenly for better texture distribution.
Can I substitute corn syrup?
Light corn syrup is best for the smooth texture it adds, but you can try using honey or maple syrup in equal amounts. Keep in mind the flavor and texture might vary slightly with these swaps.
How do I know when the topping is done?
Look for a golden brown color with a slightly set, but still sticky, texture. It should no longer jiggle when you gently shake the pan, indicating the topping is cooked through.
Is it necessary to cool the brownies before slicing?
Yes! Cooling allows both the brownies and pecan pie topping to firm up, which results in clean slices and prevents the topping from gooing out.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to wow your taste buds and impress your loved ones, this delightful Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe is the perfect culinary adventure. Rich, sweet, nutty, and utterly comforting, it’s a dessert that brings pure joy in every bite. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become your go-to treat for any occasion.
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Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Deliciously rich pecan pie brownies combine a fudgy brownie base with a sticky, sweet pecan pie topping for a decadent dessert that perfectly blends the best of both classic treats. This easy-to-make layered dessert boasts a chewy brownie bottom and a buttery, crunchy pecan topping, baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Brownie Layer
- 1 box brownie mix (plus ingredients listed on the box) or use homemade brownie batter (see below)
Pecan Pie Topping
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 3 large eggs
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chopped pecans
Homemade Brownie Batter (Optional)
- 1 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup cocoa powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the brownies and pecan topping.
- Prepare Brownie Batter: Mix the brownie batter either by following the box instructions or using the homemade batter recipe provided.
- Spread Brownie Batter: Pour the prepared brownie batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading evenly.
- Bake Brownies Partially: Bake the brownies for 20 minutes, so they are partially set but still not fully cooked, creating the perfect base for the topping.
- Make Pecan Topping: In a mixing bowl, whisk together light corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and well combined.
- Add Pecans: Fold the chopped pecans into the mixture, ensuring all nuts are fully coated with the syrupy mix.
- Assemble Layers: Carefully pour the pecan pie topping evenly over the partially baked brownies in the dish.
- Bake Combined Layers: Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for another 25 to 30 minutes, or until the pecan topping is golden brown and set.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the pecan pie brownies to cool for at least one hour to set completely before slicing into 12 servings and serving.
Notes
- For best results, allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting to prevent crumbling.
- You can substitute light corn syrup with golden syrup or maple syrup if preferred.
- Using homemade brownie batter will enhance the richness and depth of flavor compared to boxed mixes.
- Ensure pecans are fresh and well-chopped for a better texture in the topping.
- Storage: Keep leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
