Pecan Pie Brownies are my favorite dessert. These delightful treats combine rich, fudgy brownies with the sweet and nutty goodness of pecan pie. Honestly, I can’t think of a better way to indulge my sweet tooth. With every bite, the soft brownie base meets the crunchy pecans in a sticky, caramel-like topping. Perfect for get-togethers or just treating myself on a Tuesday!
This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, and I’m excited to share the steps and tips to create these mouthwatering Pecan Pie Brownies. I still remember the first time I made them. I had friends over for a game night, and I wanted to impress them with something sweet. As the smell of brownies baking filled my home, I couldn’t resist sneaking a taste. That first bite changed the game for me; it was heavenly!
Ingredients for Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe
To get started, you’ll need a handful of straightforward ingredients. Most of these are probably already in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Brownies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Pecan Topping:
- 1 cup corn syrup (light or dark)
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecans (roughly chopped)
How to Make Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe
The brownie base is what makes this dessert so special. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper, letting it hang over the sides for easy removal later.
In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter and sugar. Mix well until smooth. Then, add in the eggs, one at a time, and mix in vanilla extract. Make sure everything is mixed together nicely.
Next, sift in the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Stir until just combined. Do not overmix. The batter should be thick and fudgy.
Baking the Brownies
Pour the brownie batter into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs.
Let the brownies cool in the dish. This step is essential. You want them to set a bit before adding the pecan pie topping.
Preparing the Pecan Topping
While waiting for the brownies to cool, I like to prepare the pecan topping. In a mixing bowl, whisk together corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. This mixture is sweet and sticky, making it the perfect topping for the brownies.
Fold in the chopped pecans. This gives the topping that classic pecan pie flavor. You can adjust the amount of pecans based on your preference as well.
Layering the Pecan Topping
Once the brownie base has cooled, pour the pecan topping over the brownies. Make sure to spread it evenly across the top. I usually use a spatula to ensure that every brownie gets its fair share of toppings.
Final Bake for Pecan Pie Brownies
Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 30-35 minutes. You want the topping to bubble up and set nicely. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!
Once done, remove the dish and let it cool completely before cutting into squares. You’ll want to resist the urge to dig in right away, but this will make a significant difference in presentation.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving Pecan Pie Brownies, I love to pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess of the ice cream balances the sticky topping and fudgy brownies perfectly. You can also drizzle warm caramel sauce on top for an extra indulgent treat.
For added flavor, you can sprinkle a bit of sea salt on top. The sweet and salty contrast makes each bite even better!
Storage Tips
Pecan Pie Brownies store well, and I often make a double batch to enjoy throughout the week. Allow the brownies to cool completely before storing. Then, cut them into squares and place them in an airtight container. They can last for about 5-7 days at room temperature.
If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just layer the brownies between parchment paper, wrap them in plastic, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer!
Variations for Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe
One of the fun things about Pecan Pie Brownies is how versatile they are. Here are some variations I often consider:
- Chocolate Chip Addition: Add semi-sweet chocolate chips to the brownie base for an extra layer of chocolate.
- Nut-Free Version: Substitute pecans with Chopped caramelized apples or your favorite chocolate chips.
- Extra Toppings: Top with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for an even more decadent treat.
Occasions to Make Pecan Pie Brownies
These brownies fit perfectly into any celebration. They work great for birthdays, potlucks, or holidays. They are easy to transport and share, and who wouldn’t want to enjoy a little bit of pecan pie in brownie form?
I also recommend serving them at holiday gatherings. Their rich flavor and delightful texture make them a crowd-pleaser!
I can’t stress enough how delightful these Pecan Pie Brownies are. Whenever I make them, the reactions are priceless. Friends and family always ask for the recipe because they can’t believe how delicious they are.