If you are searching for a decadent dessert that brilliantly combines two beloved classics, this Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe is a showstopper you won’t want to miss. Rich, fudgy brownies form the perfect base for a luscious, gooey pecan pie topping, creating a heavenly fusion of textures and flavors. Every bite delivers the deep chocolate intensity mingled with the crunch and warmth of pecans and caramel-like sweetness. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving an indulgent treat, these brownies will quickly become a treasured favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe comes down to a handful of simple, thoughtfully chosen ingredients that each play a vital role. From the smooth, rich chocolate to the buttery pecan topping, every component adds depth, moisture, or that perfect crunch to the final masterpiece.
- Dark chocolate (200 g / 7 oz, 70% cocoa): The star for intense chocolate flavor and smoothness in the brownie base.
- Unsalted butter (170 g for the brownies, 115 g melted for the topping): Adds richness and helps create tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Granulated sugar (200 g / 1 cup): Sweetens the brownie batter just right while balancing the bitterness of dark chocolate.
- Brown sugar (150 g / 3/4 cup packed): Brings deep caramel notes to the pecan topping and a beautiful moistness.
- Eggs (3 for brownies, 3 for topping): Essential for structure and that irresistible fudgy consistency.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): A touch of warmth and aromatic sweetness that ties flavors together.
- All-purpose flour (130 g / 1 cup): Provides just enough structure to support the rich brownie texture.
- Light corn syrup (180 ml / 3/4 cup): Creates that glossy, chewy pecan pie layer that makes each bite special.
- Roughly chopped pecans (250 g / 2 cups): Adds irresistible crunch and nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the chewy topping.
- Salt (1/4 tsp in each layer): Enhances sweetness and balances the richness throughout.
- Optional – Bourbon (2 tbsp): For those who love a boozy twist, it deepens the flavor complexity.
How to Make Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Base
Begin by melting the dark chocolate and unsalted butter together gently, either in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or carefully in the microwave in short bursts. Stir until smooth and glossy, then whisk in the granulated sugar until fully combined. Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring a silky batter. Add vanilla extract, then fold in the sifted flour and salt, mixing just until incorporated. Pour this luscious batter into a parchment-lined baking pan, smoothing the surface for an even layer to form the rich brownie foundation.
Step 2: Make the Pecan Pie Topping
While the brownie batter rests, blend together the melted butter, light corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, salt, and optional bourbon until smooth and creamy. Stir in the roughly chopped pecans, ensuring they’re evenly coated. This sweet, sticky mixture is what transforms the brownies into an extraordinary dessert with that signature pecan pie goodness on top.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Pour the pecan pie topping evenly over the prepared brownie base, gently spreading it out so each corner gets a generous layer of nuts and syrupy filling. Bake in a preheated oven until the topping is set and glossy, with the iconic crackled surface that pecan pie lovers adore. Allow the brownies to cool thoroughly before slicing to achieve perfect squares that hold together beautifully, revealing layers of fudgy chocolate and nutty caramel delight.
How to Serve Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of elegance, dust your brownies with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce. A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream beside them adds cool creaminess that balances out the rich, sweet flavors magnificently. Toasted pecan halves placed on top can also enhance the visual appeal and add even more texture.
Side Dishes
Serving Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe alongside fresh berries or a vibrant fruit salad creates a refreshing contrast and helps cut through the indulgence with bright acidity. A strong cup of freshly brewed coffee or a bold black tea pairs beautifully, complementing the deep chocolate and nutty profile without overpowering it.
Creative Ways to Present
Imagine layering these brownies with whipped mascarpone cream and a drizzle of bourbon caramel in individual glass parfaits for a fancy dessert twist. They also work wonderfully as a decadent filling for dessert bars or stacked with layers of chocolate ganache for a celebratory look. Get creative and have fun showcasing these beauties at your next gathering!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store any leftover Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them moist and maintains the perfect balance between fudgy indulgence and crunchy topping. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration is recommended to prevent melting, but let them come back to room temperature before enjoying.
Freezing
These brownies freeze beautifully. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready for a treat, thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a few hours, then enjoy as if freshly baked.
Reheating
If you like your Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe warm, a quick zap in the microwave for 15-20 seconds refreshes their gooey texture without drying them out. Alternatively, warm them in a low oven wrapped in foil for about 10 minutes to gently bring back that just-baked feeling.
FAQs
Can I use different nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! While pecans provide that classic pecan pie flavor and crunch, walnuts or almonds can be excellent substitutes that offer delightful texture and nutty taste.
Do I have to use corn syrup in the topping?
Corn syrup helps create the chewy, glossy consistency typical of pecan pie topping. If you prefer, you can substitute with golden syrup or honey, but the texture and flavor might slightly differ.
Is it possible to make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup for cup. Be sure the blend contains xanthan gum for structure, and your brownies will still turn out delicious.
Can I omit the bourbon?
Definitely. The bourbon adds a subtle depth and complexity, but the brownies are wonderful without it as well. Simply skip it or add a teaspoon of vanilla extract for a little extra warmth.
How do I know when the Pecan Pie Brownies are done baking?
You want the pecan topping to be set and slightly crackled on top while the brownies underneath remain fudgy. A toothpick inserted into the brownie layer should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend enough that you try this Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe soon—it’s the kind of dessert that makes you want to bake it over and over. The blend of rich chocolate and sweet, nutty topping creates such irresistible harmony that it becomes an instant crowd-pleaser. So pull out your mixing bowls, gather the ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a truly spectacular homemade dessert experience.
Print
Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in the rich, decadent fusion of chocolate and pecan flavors with these Pecan Pie Brownies. Featuring a fudgy dark chocolate brownie base topped with a gooey, caramel-like pecan pie layer, these brownies combine the best of two classic desserts into one irresistible treat, perfect for celebrations or any sweet craving.
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 200 g (7 oz) dark chocolate (70% cocoa), chopped
- 170 g (3/4 cup) unsalted butter
- 200 g (1 cup) granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 130 g (1 cup) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
Pecan Pie Topping
- 115 g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, melted
- 180 ml (3/4 cup) light corn syrup
- 150 g (3/4 cup packed) brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 250 g (2 cups) pecans, roughly chopped
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Optional: 2 tbsp bourbon
Instructions
- Prepare the Brownie Base: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Melt the dark chocolate and unsalted butter together gently, either in a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently until smooth. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined. Slowly add the melted chocolate mixture to the egg mixture, stirring continuously to ensure it blends evenly. Sift in the flour and salt, folding carefully until just combined. Pour the batter into a greased or parchment-lined 9×13 inch baking pan, spreading it evenly.
- Make the Pecan Pie Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, light corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, salt, and bourbon if using. Whisk until smooth and well incorporated. Stir in the chopped pecans carefully to coat all pieces with the syrup mixture.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the pecan pie topping over the brownie batter in the pan, spreading gently to cover the entire surface. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes or until the topping is set and golden but still slightly gooey. To check doneness, insert a toothpick into the pecan layer; it should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This resting time helps the layers set firmly for cleaner cuts. Once cooled, cut into 16 squares and serve as a delightful dessert or snack.
Notes
- Ensure the dark chocolate is 70% cocoa for the best rich flavor.
- If you prefer, you can substitute bourbon with vanilla extract or omit it entirely.
- Do not overbake to maintain a gooey pecan topping.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
- For easier slicing, chill the brownies briefly before cutting.
