Pecan Pie Brownies
Pecan Pie Brownies are a decadent dessert combining a dense, fudgy chocolate brownie base with a buttery, caramelized pecan topping. This recipe delivers a delightful texture contrast between rich chocolate and crunchy toasted pecans, making it perfect for holidays, celebrations, or cozy treats at home.
- Author: Kaeli
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 16 brownies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free flour blend)
Brownie Base
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Pecan Pie Topping
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup (or honey/maple syrup as substitute)
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups toasted pecans, chopped (or walnuts)
- Pinch of salt
- Prepare the Brownie Base: Melt the butter and mix it with granulated sugar and cocoa powder until smooth. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract to add structure and flavor. Gently fold in flour and a pinch of salt, creating a fudgy batter. Pour the mixture evenly into a greased or parchment-lined baking pan.
- Make the Pecan Pie Topping: In a separate bowl, combine light corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir in toasted pecans until evenly coated. Spread this topping evenly over the brownie base, ensuring full coverage for an even bake.
- Bake and Cool: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes or until the topping is set and slightly golden. Allow the brownies to cool completely to let the topping firm up, which makes slicing easier and preserves the gooey texture.
- Slice and Serve: Use a sharp knife to cut the cooled brownies into squares. Serve as is, or garnish with whipped cream, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce for added indulgence.
Notes
- Toast the pecans before adding to the topping to enhance flavor and crunch.
- Use room temperature eggs to create a smooth brownie batter and better texture.
- Do not overmix the brownie batter to maintain a tender and fudgy crumb.
- Allow the brownies to cool fully before slicing to prevent cracking and ensure clean cuts.
- Line your baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie (1/16 of recipe)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 110 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
Keywords: Pecan Pie Brownies, chocolate brownies, pecan topping, fudgy brownies, nutty dessert, holiday dessert, gluten-free dessert