PECAN PIE BROWNIES

PECAN PIE BROWNIES

Introduction:
Pecan pie brownies are a delightful fusion of two beloved desserts, combining the rich, fudgy texture of brownies with the sweet, nutty goodness of pecan pie. This recipe is perfect for those who can’t decide between brownies and pie, offering the best of both worlds. They are rich, decadent, and sure to impress at any gathering!

Inspiration Behind the Recipe:
Inspired by traditional pecan pie and fudgy brownies, this recipe was crafted for those who crave a satisfying dessert that marries the flavors of both treats. It’s ideal for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or a special family dessert.

Ingredients Breakdown:

  • For the Brownie Layer:
    • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
    • 1 cup granulated sugar
    • 2 large eggs
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
    • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • For the Pecan Pie Topping:
    • 1 cup corn syrup (light or dark)
    • 3 large eggs
    • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 1 1/2 cups pecans (chopped)

Step-by-Step Recipe:

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
  2. Make the Brownie Layer:
    • In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla, mixing until well combined.
    • In another bowl, combine the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
  3. Bake the Brownie Layer:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean (a few moist crumbs are okay).
  4. Prepare the Pecan Pie Topping:
    • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Stir in the chopped pecans.
  5. Assemble the Brownies:
    • Once the brownie layer is done baking, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the pecan pie filling over the top, spreading it evenly.
  6. Bake Again:
    • Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the pecan topping is set and slightly bubbly.
  7. Cool and Serve:
    • Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cool, use the parchment paper to lift the brownies out of the pan and cut them into squares.

Tips for the Perfect Pecan Pie Brownies:

  1. Use Fresh Pecans: For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality pecans. Toasting them lightly can enhance their flavor even more.
  2. Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on both layers while baking to avoid drying them out. The brownie layer should be fudgy, and the pecan topping should be set but still soft.
  3. Let Cool Completely: Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting to achieve clean, neat squares.

Variations and Customizations:

  1. Chocolate Chips: Add semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to the brownie batter for an extra layer of chocolate flavor.
  2. Different Nuts: Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if desired, or mix different nuts for variety.
  3. Salted Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle warm salted caramel sauce over the cooled brownies for a decadent finish.

Health Considerations and Nutritional Value:

  • Rich Indulgence: While these brownies are a treat, they are high in sugar and fat. Enjoy them in moderation!
  • Nut-Free Option: You can omit the pecan topping and add chocolate chips instead for a nut-free version.

FAQ:

  1. Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
    Yes! You can make them a day ahead. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  2. Can I freeze pecan pie brownies?
    Absolutely! Wrap the cooled brownies tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
  3. What can I serve with pecan pie brownies?
    They pair wonderfully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
PECAN PIE BROWNIES

PECAN PIE BROWNIES

Savor the rich flavors of Pecan Pie Brownies, a delicious fusion of fudgy brownies and classic pecan pie. Perfect for gatherings and special occasions, these brownies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 16

Ingredients
  

  • Cooking spray
  • 1 18 to 20-ounce box “Family”-sized brownie mix, plus the required ingredients
  • 2 cups pecans coarsely chopped
  • 4 tablespoons 1/2 stick unsalted butter
  • 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/3 cup light corn syrup
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream
  • 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • Flaky salt for sprinkling (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the Oven: Position a rack in the middle of the oven and preheat it to 325°F. Generously coat a 9-inch square baking pan with cooking spray. Line the bottom and sides with two overlapping pieces of parchment paper, arranging them so the paper extends over all four edges by a few inches.
  • Prepare the Brownie Batter: Follow the package instructions to prepare the brownie batter. Transfer the batter to the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake until the top is dry and smooth (it won’t look crinkly) and a tester inserted into the center comes out clean, about 30 minutes.
  • Make the Pecan Pie Topping: While the brownies bake, prepare the pecan topping. In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, light brown sugar, corn syrup, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and kosher salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Once it boils, reduce the heat and simmer, stirring constantly, for 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the chopped pecans until evenly coated.
  • Add the Pecan Topping: When the brownies are done baking, remove them from the oven and increase the oven temperature to 350°F. Evenly spoon the pecan pie filling over the brownies, spreading it out gently. Return the pan to the oven and bake until the pecan topping is bubbling all over, particularly in the center, about 25 to 30 minutes.
  • Cool and Serve: Remove the pan from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool to room temperature, about 1 1/2 hours. Once cooled, use the parchment paper to lift the brownie slab out of the pan and onto a cutting board. Sprinkle with flaky salt, if desired, before cutting into squares.

Notes

  • Storage: The brownies can be tightly wrapped and stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
 
Keyword PECAN PIE BROWNIES
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