Pecan Pie Brownies are a delicious treat that combines the rich taste of chocolate brownies with nutty pecans and a sweet gooey filling. It’s like having two desserts in one!
Honestly, these brownies are so good they probably deserve their own fan club. I love serving them warm with a scoop of ice cream on top—pure happiness in every bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Unsalted Butter: This gives richness to the brownies. If you’re out, you can use margarine or coconut oil. For a healthier option, try unsweetened applesauce, but the texture will be slightly different.
Granulated Sugar: Standard for sweetness. You can swap half for brown sugar for added moisture and a deeper flavor. If you’re looking for a sugar alternative, try coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like stevia.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: This is key for that deep chocolate flavor. If you don’t have cocoa powder, you can use Dutch-processed cocoa for a smoother taste, but make sure to adjust other leavening ingredients.
Pecan Halves: These add a lovely crunch and flavor. If you’re allergic to nuts, you could use crushed graham crackers for some texture or try sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
How Do I Ensure My Brownies are Soft and Chewy?
The secret to a great brownie is balancing the mixing and baking time. Here’s how to do it right:
- When mixing the brownie batter, don’t overbeat it after adding the flour. Simply fold until combined to avoid tough brownies.
- Check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time by inserting a toothpick in the center. It should come out slightly moist for the ideal fudgy texture.
- Let them cool completely in the pan before cutting. This helps the brownies set and makes them easier to cut.
Pecan Pie Brownies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Brownie Layer:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Pecan Pie Topping:
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecan halves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time, plus 45-50 minutes to bake. Remember to let your brownies cool for a bit after baking so they can firm up nicely before you cut and enjoy them!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan. This will help ensure your brownies don’t stick!
2. Make Brownie Base:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, take it off the heat and stir in the granulated sugar and cocoa powder until the mixture is smooth. Add in the vanilla extract, then one by one, add the eggs, mixing well after each. Finally, gently fold in the flour and salt until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Pour this brownie batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly.
3. Prepare Pecan Pie Topping:
In a large bowl, whisk together the corn syrup and brown sugar until it’s nice and smooth. Add in the eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until it’s combined, then stir in the pecan halves.
4. Assemble & Bake:
Gently pour the pecan pie topping over the brownie batter in the pan. Now it’s time to bake! Place in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and remember that the topping should look set and not jiggle too much. You can test for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.
5. Cool & Serve:
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once they’re cool, cut them into squares. Optional but recommended: dust them with a little powdered sugar before serving for a special touch!
Enjoy the delightful combination of fudgy brownies topped with rich, gooey pecan pie filling! These are sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Can I Use Different Nuts Instead of Pecans?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of pecans, you can substitute walnuts or even try macadamia nuts for a different flavor. Just make sure to chop them if they’re whole for even distribution in the topping.
What Should I Do If My Brownies Are Overcooked?
If your brownies are overcooked and dry, try serving them warm with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce to add moisture. Next time, keep a closer eye on the baking time starting around the 40-minute mark, as ovens can vary.
Can I Make These Brownies Gluten-Free?
Yes! You can easily make these brownies gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of the regular flour. Ensure that all other ingredients, particularly the cocoa and baking supplies, are gluten-free.
How to Store Leftover Brownies?
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in a resealable bag before freezing.