These Pecan Pie Brownies are a yummy mix of rich chocolate and crunchy pecans. They’re sweet, chewy, and perfect for satisfying your dessert cravings!
I love how they combine two favorites into one treat. Honestly, it’s like the best of both worlds—who can resist that? Grab a fork, and let’s dig in! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Unsalted Butter: This adds richness to the brownies. If you’re out of butter, you can use equal parts of coconut oil or vegetable oil for a dairy-free option. Just make sure to melt it first!
Sugar: Granulated sugar is essential for sweetness in both the brownie and pecan topping. You could use brown sugar alone or a mixture of brown and granulated sugar for a deeper flavor.
Eggs: Eggs help bind the ingredients and add moisture. If you’re looking for an egg substitute, consider using 1/4 cup of applesauce or 1/4 cup of mashed banana for each egg. It will slightly change the texture but still tastes great!
Pecans: They give the topping texture and flavor. If allergies are a concern, sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts make good substitutes, although the flavor will be different!
What’s the Best Way to Layer the Brownies and Pecan Topping?
Getting the layers right is key to delicious Pecan Pie Brownies. First, ensure you create a smooth brownie layer before adding your topping.
- Spread the brownie batter evenly in the pan to prevent uneven baking.
- Once you pour the pecan topping on, use a spatula to ensure it covers the brownie layer evenly. This helps every bite have a bit of both layers.
- Using pecan halves as a topping is a great idea for presentation. Press them gently into the topping before baking—this helps them stay put!
By taking care with these layering steps, you’ll end up with a delightful balance of brownies and pecans in each square!
Pecan Pie Brownies
Ingredients:
For the Brownie Layer:
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup (40g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
For the Pecan Pie Topping:
- 3/4 cup (120g) light corn syrup
- 3/4 cup (150g) packed brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups (150g) chopped pecans (plus extra pecan halves for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparation will take about 15 minutes, followed by 35-40 minutes of baking time. Once baked, let the brownies cool completely. So, in total, you’ll want to budget around 1 hour—plus some extra cooling time—before they’re ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Brownie Layer:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, remove it from the heat and mix in the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until everything is nicely blended. Now, stir in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder until the batter is smooth.
2. Prepare Pecan Pie Topping:
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the light corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and well combined. Finally, mix in the chopped pecans to add that delightful crunch!
3. Assemble and Bake:
Gently pour the pecan pie mixture over the brownie layer in the baking pan. Carefully spread it to cover the brownie layer evenly. For a beautiful touch, arrange the pecan halves on top as a garnish. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 35 to 40 minutes. You want the topping to be set but slightly moist in the center; avoid overbaking for that gooey texture!
4. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. When they’re cool, use a sharp knife to cut them into squares. Serve up and enjoy the delectable combination of fudgy brownie goodness with sweet, crunchy pecans!
Indulge in this rich dessert that brings together the best of brownies and pecan pie in every delightful bite! Enjoy! 🍫🥧
Can I Use Different Nuts Instead of Pecans?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional for pecan pie, you can substitute with walnuts, almonds, or even a mix of your favorite nuts. Just chop them up and use the same amount as called for in the recipe.
What Can I Use if I Don’t Have Light Corn Syrup?
If you don’t have light corn syrup, you can use golden syrup or honey as a substitute. Keep in mind that the flavor may change slightly, but they will still add that sweetness needed for the topping.
How Do I Store Leftover Pecan Pie Brownies?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze them by wrapping individual pieces in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature before enjoying!
Can I Make These Brownies Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make gluten-free Pecan Pie Brownies, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend. Ensure that your other ingredients, like baking powder, are also gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
