There’s something utterly magical about brownies, don’t you think? They’re that wonderful balance of dense, chewy, and rich chocolate goodness that seems to make any day just a little brighter. Now, imagine taking that indulgent delight and topping it with the sweet, buttery goodness of pecan pie. Yup, I’m talking about Pecan Pie Brownies! It’s like a love letter to dessert that combines two classics into one slice of heaven.
This recipe first came to me during a family holiday gathering. My aunt concocted this delightful treat, and I couldn’t believe my taste buds. The gooey chocolate brownie layer paired with the crunchy pecan topping was a game changer! It’s since become a must-make dish for celebrations, potlucks, or just a cozy night in with a movie. So grab your apron and let’s get baking!
What’s in Pecan Pie Brownies?
Brownie Batter: The base of our recipe, this heavenly batter is made from chocolate, sugar, eggs, and flour. I love using high-quality chocolate like Ghirardelli or Callebaut for that deep flavor.
Brown Sugar: This adds a delightful caramel flavor to our pecan topping. It’s stickier and richer than regular sugar, making it perfect for this dessert.
Corn Syrup: A classic for pecan pie, corn syrup gives the topping that gooey sweetness we all crave. I often opt for light corn syrup, but dark works too if you want a richer flavor.
Eggs: These little wonders bind our brownie and topping together beautifully. For an extra lift, I use large eggs, room temperature.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of this fragrant liquid elevates the flavor profile of both the brownie and pecan mixture. Always use pure vanilla extract for the best taste!
Pecans: The star of the topping, pecans add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor. Toasting them slightly before adding them to the mixture will enhance their flavor even more!
Is Pecan Pie Brownies Good for You?
Let’s be real: these brownies are more of an indulgent treat than a health food, but they do bring some goodness to the table.
**Pecans:** These nuts are rich in healthy fats, fiber, and protein, which can help you feel satisfied. Plus, they’re also packed with antioxidants!
**Brownies:** While brownies are definitely a sweet treat, they can be made slightly healthier by using dark chocolate, which is lower in sugar and filled with beneficial nutrients.
Of course, moderation is key! These brownies are best enjoyed as an occasional treat. Perhaps serve them with a side of fresh fruit to balance out the sweetness!
Ingredients List
– 1 cup high-quality dark chocolate, chopped
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs, room temperature
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup corn syrup (light)
– 2 large eggs (for topping)
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– 1 cup pecans, chopped
This recipe makes approximately 12 servings.
How to Make Pecan Pie Brownies?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the **unsalted butter** and **chocolate** together over low heat. Stir until smooth and combined. Remove from heat.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the **granulated sugar** and **eggs** until well combined. Stir in the melted chocolate mixture.
4. Gradually fold in the **flour** until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
5. Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
6. In a separate bowl, mix together the **brown sugar**, **corn syrup**, 2 **eggs**, **vanilla extract**, and chopped **pecans** for the pecan topping.
7. Spread the pecan mixture over the brownie layer in the pan.
8. Top with the remaining brownie batter and spread gently to cover the pecan layer.
9. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the brownie portion.
10. Allow it to cool in the pan before cutting into squares.
Sweet Tips & Variations
– Drizzle some melted chocolate over the top for an extra indulgent touch!
– You can swap out pecans for walnuts or even almonds if you’re feeling adventurous.
– Serve these brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible dessert!
I can’t wait for you to try these Pecan Pie Brownies! They’ll have your taste buds singing and your friends begging for the recipe. Make sure to take a picture and share your creations with me—there’s nothing better than seeing everyone enjoying these delicious treats! Happy baking!
