If you have a craving for something rich, decadent, and irresistibly nutty, you are going to love this Buttery Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe. This dessert marries the fudgy, chocolaty goodness of classic brownies with the luscious, caramelized texture of pecan pie topping. Each bite delivers a harmonious blend of creamy butter, crunchy pecans, and velvety chocolate that’s perfect for any occasion, from cozy family nights to celebrations where you want to impress. Honestly, once you try this recipe, it’ll become your new favorite go-to for something sweet and satisfying!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Buttery Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe are wonderfully straightforward and familiar, which means you probably have most of them in your pantry. Each component plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of texture and flavor: from the rich butter and silky chocolate to the nutty pecans and sweet syrup topping.
- 1 cup unsalted butter: The foundation for a rich, moist brownie base that melts in your mouth.
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create that classic chewy brownie texture.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Brings a deep, caramel flavor to the pecan topping.
- 3 large eggs: Bind everything together and add structure to the brownies.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic touch.
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour: The dry ingredient that provides the perfect crumb to the brownies.
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Delivers that rich, chocolate punch we all crave.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and elevates the flavors.
- 1 cup chopped pecans: Offers a crunchy, buttery contrast in every bite.
- 1/2 cup corn syrup (or maple syrup): Creates that luscious, glossy pecan pie glaze with just the right amount of stickiness.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream: Adds silkiness to the pecan topping and helps it set beautifully.
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional): For extra bursts of melty chocolate throughout the brownies.
How to Make Buttery Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper — leaving those little overhangs on the sides. This simple step will make removing your brownies a total breeze once they’re baked and cooled.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Base
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, remove the pan from heat and stir in granulated sugar and cocoa powder. This mix instantly thickens and smells like chocolate heaven. Let it cool slightly so you don’t scramble your eggs in the next step!
Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs and Vanilla
Whisk in the eggs, one at a time, to ensure your batter becomes smooth and glossy. Add the vanilla extract for that warm, aromatic boost — trust me, this step is where the magic starts building.
Step 4: Add the Dry Ingredients and Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the flour and salt just until everything is combined, avoiding overmixing to keep the brownies tender. If you’re adding chocolate chips, now’s the time—they’ll melt into perfect gooey pockets as it bakes.
Step 5: Bake the Brownie Base
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the center is just set — you want it fudgy, not dry. This is the base layer that holds the luscious pecan topping later!
Step 6: Prepare the Pecan Pie Topping
While the brownies are baking, mix butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, and heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens, about 3 to 5 minutes—that glossy caramel-like texture signals it’s ready.
Step 7: Add Pecans and Vanilla to the Topping
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the chopped pecans along with a bit of vanilla extract. This cocktail of flavors gives you that signature buttery pecan pie taste that perfectly complements the chocolatey base.
Step 8: Spread the Pecan Topping Over Brownies
Pour the warm pecan mixture evenly over the baked brownie base, smoothing it out gently but completely. This layering is what makes this Buttery Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe so incredibly special.
Step 9: Finish Baking the Brownies
Pop the pan back into the oven and bake for another 15 minutes. The topping should bubble and set beautifully—this signals that all those flavors have married perfectly and your brownies are ready to cool.
Step 10: Cool and Slice
Allow the brownies to cool completely right in the pan. Then, using the parchment paper overhang, lift them out and slice into 16 generous squares. The wait is worth it: each piece will be packed with gooey, nutty goodness.
How to Serve Buttery Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate can elevate these brownies visually and flavor-wise. For a festive touch, sprinkle some extra chopped pecans or even flaky sea salt on top just before serving to highlight the buttery sweetness.
Side Dishes
Serve your Buttery Pecan Pie Brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert experience. A hot cup of coffee or a creamy latte makes an excellent pairing that balances the sweetness and deep chocolate flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
These brownies also shine as bite-sized treats for parties—cut into mini squares and serve on a pretty platter with little forks. Or, create a layered dessert by crumbling brownies into parfait glasses layered with fresh whipped cream and berries. It’s a surefire way to impress friends and family!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After they’ve completely cooled, store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps the topping glossy and the brownies delightfully fudgy. If your home is warm, consider refrigeration to preserve freshness longer.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover brownies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months without losing texture or flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best results.
Reheating
Warm a brownie square in the microwave for about 15 seconds or until soft and slightly gooey. This brings back that just-baked feel, especially when paired with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream.
FAQs
Can I use maple syrup instead of corn syrup?
Absolutely! Maple syrup works beautifully and adds a subtle depth of flavor, making your pecan topping even more delicious and slightly rustic in taste.
What kind of pecans should I use?
Fresh, raw or roasted chopped pecans work best. Roasting them first enhances their nutty flavor, but raw pecans will still add excellent texture and taste.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just be sure to check the blend contains xanthan gum for structure.
Is it possible to use a different nut?
While pecans are classic here, chopped walnuts or even a mix of nuts can be a great alternative, providing a similar crunch and buttery flavor profile.
How do I know when the topping is set?
The topping is set when it bubbles evenly and no longer jiggles when you gently shake the pan. It should have a glossy, firm texture but still be soft and chewy under your teeth.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Buttery Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe, you’ll wonder why you didn’t bake it sooner. It’s the perfect combination of two beloved desserts in one flawless, easy-to-make treat. Whether for a cozy night in or a special gathering, this recipe is guaranteed to bring smiles and happy sighs all around. So grab those ingredients and get baking—you’re in for an incredible indulgence!
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Raspberry Chocolate Bars: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe You Must Try Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in rich, decadent Buttery Pecan Pie Brownies that combine a fudgy cocoa brownie base with a luscious buttery pecan pie topping. These brownies offer the perfect balance of chocolate and nutty sweetness, ideal for dessert lovers seeking a delightful twist on classic brownies.
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Pecan Pie Topping
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup corn syrup (or maple syrup)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy lifting.
- Melt Butter and Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large saucepan, melt 1 cup of butter over medium heat. Remove from heat and stir in granulated sugar and cocoa powder until smooth. Let the mixture cool slightly to prevent eggs from cooking.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Whisk in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract for flavor.
- Mix Dry Ingredients and Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the flour and salt just until combined to maintain a fudgy texture. If using, mix in chocolate chips evenly throughout the batter.
- Bake Brownie Base: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the center is just set but not fully firm.
- Prepare Pecan Pie Topping: While the brownies bake, combine 1/2 cup butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, and heavy cream in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 3–5 minutes.
- Add Pecans and Vanilla: Remove the topping from heat, then stir in the chopped pecans and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to infuse flavor and texture.
- Top Brownies with Pecan Mixture: Pour the pecan pie topping evenly over the baked brownie base, spreading it carefully to cover the surface.
- Final Bake: Return the assembled brownies to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the topping is bubbling and set.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out easily, slice into 16 squares, and serve.
Notes
- For a richer topping, substitute corn syrup with pure maple syrup for a natural sweetness.
- Chocolate chips are optional in the brownie base but add extra chocolatey bursts.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- To enhance the flavor, toast the pecans lightly before chopping.
- Ensure not to overbake the brownie base; it should be just set to achieve the perfect fudgy texture.
