Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe

The Perfect Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe for Sweet Tooths

Decadent pecan pie brownies combine two beloved desserts in a mind-blowing chocolate paradise.

Sweet nuts and rich chocolate create an irresistible flavor explosion.

Chocolate lovers will swoon over this incredible mashup of classic treats.

Deep, fudgy brownie layers get topped with a gooey pecan pie filling that melts in your mouth.

Crunchy pecans add a delightful texture that makes each bite extraordinary.

Southern baking traditions inspired this ultimate indulgence that feels both familiar and innovative.

Come experience a dessert that will have everyone begging for seconds.

Fudgy Layers in Every Pecan Pie Brownie Bite

  • Indulge in Delicious Complexity: Combines two beloved desserts into one showstopping treat that elevates your baking game with minimal extra effort.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, and holiday celebrations where everyone craves a rich, decadent dessert that offers both chocolate and nutty flavors.
  • Easy Layered Technique: Simple step-by-step process allows bakers of all skill levels to create an impressive dessert without advanced pastry techniques, making it approachable and fun to prepare.
  • Nutty Chocolate Harmony: Merges the gooey sweetness of pecan pie with the rich, fudgy texture of brownies, creating a unique dessert experience that satisfies multiple flavor cravings in one bite.

Pecan Pie Brownies Ingredient List

Brownie Base:
  • All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure for the brownie layer.
  • Cocoa Powder: Delivers rich chocolate flavor.
  • Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness to the base.
  • Butter: Creates moisture and richness.
  • Eggs: Binds ingredients together.
  • Baking Powder: Helps brownies rise slightly.
  • Salt: Enhances overall flavor.
Pecan Pie Topping:
  • Pecans: Adds nutty crunch and classic pie texture.
  • Brown Sugar: Provides deep caramel-like sweetness.
  • Corn Syrup: Creates smooth, glossy pecan layer.
  • Butter: Contributes richness to the topping.
  • Eggs: Helps set the pecan pie layer.
  • Vanilla Extract: Boosts overall flavor complexity.
Finishing Ingredients:
  • Parchment Paper: Ensures easy brownie removal.
  • Vanilla Extract: Complements both brownie and pecan layers.

Pecan Pie Brownies Delicious Baking Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Baking Station

Fire up your oven to 350°F. Grab your 8×8-inch pan and give it a quick spray of cooking oil. Line the bottom with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over for easy lifting later.

Step 2: Create the Brownie Base

Grab a large mixing bowl and whisk together:
  • Melted butter
  • Granulated sugar
  • Eggs
  • Vanilla extract
Sift in your dry ingredients:
  • Cocoa powder
  • Flour
  • Salt
  • Baking powder

Blend everything until just combined. Don’t go crazy with mixing – you want a smooth, gentle touch.

Step 3: Bake the Brownie Foundation

Pour the chocolatey batter into your prepared pan. Spread it out evenly with a spatula. Slide the pan into the oven and bake for about 15 minutes until it starts to set.

Step 4: Whip Up the Pecan Pie Topping

In a separate bowl, whisk together:
  • Brown sugar
  • Corn syrup
  • Eggs
  • Vanilla extract
  • Melted butter

Fold in chopped pecans until they’re beautifully distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 5: Layer on the Pecan Goodness

Carefully pour the pecan mixture over the partially baked brownie layer. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly, creating a delicious blanket of nutty sweetness.

Step 6: Final Bake to Perfection

Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for a golden-brown top and a set pecan layer that jiggles just slightly when you move the pan.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Let the brownies cool completely in the pan. This is the hardest part – resist the temptation to dig in too soon! Once cooled, lift out the parchment and slice into square pieces of pure indulgence.

Brownie Baking Tips for Pecan Pie Twist

Select the Perfect Pecans: Choose fresh, high-quality pecans for the most robust flavor and crunchiest texture in your brownies.

Create Smooth Batter: Whisk brownie ingredients gently to prevent tough texture, mixing just until ingredients are combined for tender results.

Check Doneness Carefully: Test pecan pie layer with a gentle shake – it should be slightly jiggly but not liquid, indicating perfect set without overcooking.

Control Sweetness Levels: Reduce corn syrup by one tablespoon if you prefer less sweet desserts, maintaining the rich caramel-like pecan topping.

Slice with Clean Technique: Use a sharp knife wiped between cuts to get clean, precise brownie squares without messy pecan topping dragging.

Storing Pecan Pie Brownies for Later Enjoyment

  • Store cooled brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Wrap each layer separately with plastic wrap to maintain freshness and prevent sticking.
  • Pack brownies in a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag, separating layers with parchment paper. Freeze for maximum 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Warm individual pieces in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 325°F for 5-7 minutes. Add a small dollop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
  • Keep brownies at room temperature for up to 2 days in a sealed container, ensuring they remain covered to prevent drying out.

Pecan Pie Brownies Tasty Matches

  • Pair with Bold Red Wine: Select a rich, full-bodied cabernet sauvignon that complements the deep chocolate and nutty pecan flavors, cutting through the dessert's sweetness with its robust tannins.
  • Create Creamy Coffee Companion: Brew a smooth, dark roast espresso or cappuccino with a touch of cinnamon, which enhances the warm pecan and chocolate notes while providing a delightful contrast in temperature.
  • Serve with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Scoop classic vanilla bean ice cream alongside the brownies, letting the cold, creamy texture balance the warm, gooey pecan pie brownie and create a heavenly dessert experience.
  • Match with Bourbon Cocktail: Mix a classic old fashioned cocktail with bourbon, bitters, and a hint of orange zest, which echoes the caramel and nutty undertones of the dessert while offering a sophisticated adult pairing.

Dessert Mix Ups for Pecan Pie Brownies

  • Gluten-Free Pecan Pie Brownies: Replace wheat flour with almond or coconut flour for a celiac-friendly version. Use gluten-free cocoa powder and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
  • Vegan Chocolate Pecan Bars: Substitute eggs with flax eggs or applesauce. Use coconut oil instead of butter and maple syrup in place of corn syrup. Select dairy-free chocolate for the brownie base.
  • Keto-Friendly Nutty Chocolate Squares: Swap regular sugar with erythritol or stevia. Use almond flour and cocoa powder. Replace corn syrup with sugar-free maple syrup. Include additional chopped nuts for healthy fats.
  • Lower-Calorie Pecan Brownie Treat: Reduce butter quantity and use Greek yogurt for moisture. Incorporate whole wheat flour for added fiber. Use dark chocolate for intense flavor with fewer calories.

FAQs

  • Why combine brownies and pecan pie?

This delicious mashup combines the rich chocolate flavor of brownies with the sweet, nutty caramel-like topping of pecan pie, creating a decadent dessert that offers two classic treats in one incredible bite.

  • Are pecans necessary for this recipe?

Yes, pecans are crucial because they provide a signature crunch, nutty flavor, and traditional pecan pie texture that complements the fudgy brownie base perfectly.

  • Can I use different nuts if I don't have pecans?

While pecans are traditional, you can substitute with walnuts or almonds, though the flavor profile will slightly change from the classic pecan pie taste.

  • How do I know when the pecan pie brownies are fully baked?

Look for a golden-brown pecan topping that appears set and doesn’t jiggle when you gently shake the pan, and a toothpick inserted near the center should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.

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Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe

Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe


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4.7 from 33 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Indulgent pecan pie brownies merge two beloved desserts into one irresistible treat. Rich chocolate layers harmonize with caramel-glazed pecans, creating a luxurious experience that satisfies deepest chocolate and nut cravings.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

Dry Ingredients:

  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder

Flavor Enhancer:

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Warm the oven to 350°F and prepare an 8×8-inch baking vessel with parchment paper, ensuring complete coverage for easy removal.
  2. Create the chocolate base by combining melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla in a mixing bowl, whisking until the mixture achieves a silky consistency.
  3. Incorporate cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder into the wet ingredients, gently folding until just combined to maintain a rich, dense texture.
  4. Transfer the brownie batter into the prepared pan, using a spatula to distribute evenly across the surface.
  5. Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15 minutes, allowing the chocolate layer to partially set.
  6. Meanwhile, craft the pecan topping by blending brown sugar, corn syrup, eggs, vanilla, and melted butter in a separate bowl until thoroughly integrated.
  7. Fold chopped pecans into the syrupy mixture, ensuring an even distribution of nutty fragments throughout the topping.
  8. Delicately pour the pecan mixture over the partially baked brownie layer, using a spatula to create a uniform coating.
  9. Return the pan to the oven and continue baking for 25-30 minutes, watching for a golden-brown pecan top and firm, set filling.
  10. Remove from the oven and allow the dessert to cool completely within the pan, which helps the layers solidify and makes cutting easier.
  11. Once thoroughly cooled, slice into square portions, revealing the decadent layers of chocolate and caramelized pecans.

Notes

  • Soften butter at room temperature for easier mixing and smoother batter texture.
  • Toast pecans briefly before adding to enhance their nutty flavor and add depth to the dessert.
  • Swap corn syrup with maple syrup or honey for a natural alternative and slightly different sweet profile.
  • Use gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe suitable for those with wheat sensitivities, ensuring everyone can enjoy these rich brownies.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 190
  • Sugar: 15 g
  • Sodium: 60 mg
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 26 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 40 mg
Marcus Hale

Marcus Hale

Founder & Recipe Storyteller

Expertise

  • Demystifying knife work, sauce emulsification, and pastry basics.
  • Curating seasonal guides that adapt global recipes to local, in-season produce.
  • Crafting blog posts, videos, and social media tips.

Education

Holyoke Community College – HCC-MGM Culinary Arts Institute

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Hands-on global cuisine training emphasizes sustainable cooking and recipe development under accredited chefs.

Marcus grew up surrounded by maple trees, farm stands, and the smell of Sunday stew simmering on the stove. After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from the HCC-MGM Culinary Arts Institute, he knew he didn’t want to work in fancy kitchens, he wanted to cook for real people.

At Whip Up Cook Up, Marcus is the guy turning memories into meals. His recipes are fast, full of flavor, and built for home cooks who want big taste without the drama.

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