The moment you sink your teeth into a Pecan Pie Brownie, it’s like a party in your mouth where chocolate and pecans dance together in perfect harmony. Imagine soft, fudgy brownie goodness topped with a sweet, crunchy pecan pie layer, each bite exploding with rich flavors that will have you reaching for another piece before you can say “dessert.”
Like many great culinary adventures, this one starts in my grandmother’s cozy kitchen, where the aroma of baked goods wafted through the air like a warm hug. I remember eagerly waiting by the oven, eyes wide with anticipation as she whipped up her famous pecan pie. Now, I’ve combined those nostalgic flavors into these brownies that are perfect for every occasion—whether it’s a birthday bash or just because it’s Tuesday.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Pecan Pie Brownies are incredibly easy to prepare, making them a go-to dessert for any occasion
- The combination of rich chocolate and crunchy pecans creates a flavor explosion in every bite
- Their beautiful layers make them visually stunning on any dessert spread
- They are versatile enough to serve warm with ice cream or cold straight from the fridge
Ingredients for Pecan Pie Brownies
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: This adds that deep chocolate flavor essential for brownies; opt for high-quality cocoa for the best results.
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Granulated Sugar: A must-have to sweeten your brownies and create that delightful texture; don’t skimp!
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Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over the saltiness; melting it brings out its rich flavor.
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Eggs: Large eggs provide structure and moisture; they’re key to achieving that fudgy texture we all love.
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All-Purpose Flour: This helps bind everything together while keeping the brownies light and fluffy.
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Pecans: Chopped pecans add crunch and nuttiness; toast them lightly to enhance their flavor.
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Brown Sugar: Adds depth and richness to the pecan pie topping; it’s what makes everything feel indulgent.
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Maple Syrup: A drizzle brings sweetness and that classic pecan pie flavor; it’s like pouring liquid gold over your dessert!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Pecan Pie Brownies
First things first: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake those beauties. Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan thoroughly or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Next, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over low heat until it’s completely liquid but not bubbling away like a witch’s cauldron. Stir in the granulated sugar and cocoa powder until everything is well combined and glossy—just like your favorite pair of shoes.
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs until they’re frothy, resembling clouds on a sunny day. Slowly add this egg mixture into your buttery concoction while stirring continuously to avoid scrambling those precious eggs!
Now it’s time to fold in the flour gently—think of it as tucking in a sleepy baby rather than aggressively mixing it up! You want all those ingredients combined but still nice and airy.
Pour half of this luscious brownie batter into your prepared pan and smooth it out evenly. Then sprinkle half of those chopped pecans over this layer because we want everyone invited to this chocolate party!
For the topping: In a bowl, mix brown sugar, maple syrup, remaining pecans, and a pinch of salt until well combined. Spread this sticky goodness over the brownie base like frosting on a cake.
Finally, dollop the remaining brownie batter over the top—it’s okay if some of that beautiful pecan mixture peeks through because we like surprises! Bake in your preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes until set but still slightly gooey inside—trust me; that’s where all the magic happens.
Allow these decadent Pecan Pie Brownies to cool completely before slicing them into squares. Serve them warm with vanilla ice cream or cold straight from the fridge—either way, they are sure to be devoured quickly!
And there you have it—your ticket to dessert heaven is ready! Enjoy every fudgy bite as you reminisce about grandma’s cozy kitchen filled with love and laughter because these brownies are more than just dessert—they’re memories waiting to happen!
You Must Know
- Pecan Pie Brownies are a delightful fusion of rich brownie goodness and the classic sweetness of pecan pie
- This dessert is perfect for any occasion, offering a decadent treat that will leave your guests asking for seconds
- Plus, they are easy to whip up!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
First, preheat your oven while you mix your brownie batter. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, bake for a bit, then prepare your pecan pie topping. Pour it over the brownies and return them to the oven for perfect results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap walnuts for pecans if that’s what you have on hand. Add chocolate chips to the brownie batter for an extra chocolatey kick or sprinkle sea salt on top of the pecan layer for a sweet-salty contrast.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Pecan Pie Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds until warm and gooey again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly fudgy brownies, avoid overmixing your batter as it can lead to a cakey texture
- Also, let them cool completely before cutting; this helps achieve clean edges
- Lastly, keep an eye on baking times to avoid dry brownies!
It was Thanksgiving last year when I first introduced Pecan Pie Brownies to my family. Watching their eyes light up was priceless—especially when my uncle tried to sneak a second piece before dinner even started!
FAQs:
What are Pecan Pie Brownies?
Pecan Pie Brownies are a delicious dessert that combines the rich flavors of brownies with the classic taste of pecan pie. They feature a fudgy brownie base topped with a gooey, caramel-like pecan filling. This delightful treat is perfect for those who love both brownies and pecan pie, offering the best of both worlds in one bite.
How do I store Pecan Pie Brownies?
To store Pecan Pie Brownies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to three months. If freezing, wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container to maintain freshness.
Can I use different nuts in Pecan Pie Brownies?
Yes, you can customize your Pecan Pie Brownies by using different nuts if desired. While pecans are traditional, walnuts or almonds can add unique flavors and textures. Keep in mind that the nut choice will slightly alter the overall taste but will still create a delectable dessert that everyone loves.
What occasions are ideal for serving Pecan Pie Brownies?
Pecan Pie Brownies make an excellent dessert for various occasions, including holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. They are also great for potlucks, birthday parties, or family gatherings. Their rich flavor and appealing appearance make them a hit at any celebration or casual get-together.
Conclusion for Pecan Pie Brownies:
In summary, Pecan Pie Brownies are a delightful fusion of two beloved desserts that offer rich flavors and satisfying textures. Their fudgy brownie base combined with a sweet pecan topping creates an irresistible treat perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or treating yourself, these brownies will surely impress. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and share it with friends and family!
Pecan Pie Brownies
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x
Description
Pecan Pie Brownies are a delectable fusion of rich chocolate brownies and sweet pecan pie, creating a dessert that is both indulgent and memorable. Each bite features a fudgy base topped with a gooey pecan layer, delivering a flavor experience that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Ideal for celebrations or a cozy night in, these brownies are easy to whip up and even easier to enjoy. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this delightful dessert that is sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chopped pecans (lightly toasted)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in granulated sugar and cocoa powder until glossy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk eggs until frothy, then slowly incorporate into the butter mixture while stirring continuously.
- Gently fold in flour until just combined. Pour half the batter into the prepared pan and top with half of the chopped pecans.
- In another bowl, mix brown sugar, maple syrup, remaining pecans, and a pinch of salt; spread over the brownie base.
- Dollop the remaining brownie batter on top and bake for 30-35 minutes until set but slightly gooey.
- Allow cooling completely before slicing into squares.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie (52g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: For extra flavor, consider adding chocolate chips to the brownie batter. You can swap walnuts for pecans if you prefer a different nutty taste. Sprinkling sea salt on top of the pecan layer adds a delightful sweet-salty contrast.
