If you love the rich, gooey indulgence of brownies combined with the buttery, crunchy goodness of classic pecan pie, then this Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe is about to become your new favorite treat. Imagine a fudgy chocolate brownie base topped with a luscious pecan pie layer that’s sticky, nutty, and perfectly sweet—every bite is a decadent masterpiece that’s both comforting and festive. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving something extraordinary, these Pecan Pie Brownies are guaranteed to delight anyone lucky enough to try them.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe brings together simple but essential ingredients that work in harmony to create a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Each component contributes something special, from the velvety chocolate base to the caramelized pecan topping that adds irresistible crunch.
- 200 g unsalted butter: Essential for richness and to create that smooth, fudgy texture in the brownie base.
- 200 g dark chocolate: Adds deep, intense chocolate flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the topping.
- 275 g light brown soft sugar: Provides moisture and caramel notes, enhancing the brownie’s chewiness.
- 4 medium eggs: Bind the brownie ingredients together and help create a mousse-like lift when whisked.
- 100 g plain flour: The foundation for structure without making the brownies heavy.
- 50 g cocoa powder: Boosts the chocolatey goodness with a rich, slightly bitter kick.
- 50 g unsalted butter (for topping): Melts perfectly with sugar and syrup to form the sticky pecan pie layer.
- 115 g light brown soft sugar (for topping): Adds caramel sweetness in the topping, balancing the nuts’ earthiness.
- 75 g golden syrup: The secret to that classic pecan pie glaze, giving it a shiny, sticky finish.
- 250 g pecans, chopped: Crunchy and buttery, these nuts steal the spotlight in the topping.
- 1 medium egg (for topping): Helps bind the pecan pie topping together for that perfect set.
- Pinch of sea salt (optional): A little salt enhances all the sweet flavors and balances the richness.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth, rounding out the complex flavors of the topping.
How to Make Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, get your oven ready by heating it to 180ºC (or 160ºC with a fan). Line a 9×9 inch square tin with parchment paper so nothing sticks and cleanup stays easy. This simple prep step ensures your brownies come out perfectly shaped and easy to lift.
Step 2: Melt Chocolate and Butter
Pop the dark chocolate and butter together into a heat-safe bowl and melt them until silky smooth. Using a microwave makes this quick and hassle-free—just give it a stir every 20 seconds to avoid burning. Once melted, let it cool for about 5-10 minutes; this prevents scrambling the eggs when you combine the mixtures later.
Step 3: Whisk Eggs and Sugar
In a separate bowl, whisk the light brown sugar with the eggs for a couple of minutes until the mixture doubles in volume and becomes mousse-like. This step is crucial for creating a brownie base that’s light yet rich, giving it a slightly fluffy texture under the gooey topping.
Step 4: Combine Brownie Batter
Fold the cooled chocolate and butter mixture carefully into the whipped eggs and sugar, making sure to keep as much air as possible. Then, sift the plain flour and cocoa powder into the bowl and gently fold it through. This careful folding keeps everything tender while maintaining a luscious chocolate flavor throughout.
Step 5: Bake the Brownie Base
Pour your brownie batter into the prepared tin, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, just enough time for the base to set without overbaking so it stays soft under the topping.
Step 6: Make the Pecan Pie Topping
While the brownie is baking, melt butter, sugar, and golden syrup together in a pan over low heat until smooth and combined. Let the mixture cool for 5 minutes so it thickens slightly, then stir in chopped pecans, egg, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt if using. This mixture forms the rich, syrupy topping that transforms classic brownies into this unforgettable dessert.
Step 7: Add and Bake the Topping
After the brownie layer has baked for 25 minutes, take it out and carefully spoon the pecan topping over it. To get an even spread, add the topping in small spoonfuls before smoothing gently. Return the tin to the oven and bake for another 20-25 minutes until the topping bubbles up golden and irresistibly sticky.
Step 8: Chill and Slice
Allow the brownies to cool fully in the tin, then place them in the fridge for at least 3 hours to let the layers set beautifully. This chilling step is what gives the brownies their perfect texture and makes slicing clean and easy.
How to Serve Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
A dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate can add a stunning final touch to your Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe. For an extra festive vibe, sprinkle a few whole pecans on top just before serving or add a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt to highlight the sweet and nutty flavors.
Side Dishes
Pair these brownies with classic vanilla ice cream or a scoop of cinnamon-spiced whipped cream. The creamy coldness complements the warm, caramel-rich topping perfectly, creating a sensational contrast that will delight your taste buds.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Try serving your pecan pie brownies in individual jars layered with whipped cream or chopped pecans. Or place slices on a wooden board alongside fresh berries and mint leaves for an elegant dessert platter that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep leftover Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps the brownie moist and the topping sticky and flavorful without drying out.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, these brownies freeze brilliantly. Wrap individual slices tightly in cling film and foil, then place in a freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months frozen without losing their delicious texture or taste.
Reheating
To enjoy your brownies after freezing or from the fridge, gently warm them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until just soft. Avoid overheating to keep that luscious gooey texture intact. Pair with cold ice cream or your favorite coffee for a treat that feels freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts besides pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds make great substitutes if pecans aren’t your favorite or you want a different flavor profile. Just chop them roughly to maintain that lovely crunch.
What if I don’t have golden syrup?
If golden syrup isn’t available, light corn syrup or honey can be used as alternatives. They won’t be exactly the same but will still provide that sticky sweetness needed for the topping.
How long should I cool the brownies before slicing?
Patience here is key! Cooling fully and then chilling for at least 3 hours ensures the layers set properly, making slicing neat and keeping each piece intact without crumbling.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the plain flour for a gluten-free baking blend, making sure it contains xanthan gum for structure. The rest of the recipe remains the same.
Are these brownies too sweet?
These Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe strikes a wonderful balance of sweetness with the deep chocolate and nutty topping, but if you prefer less sweet, reduce the sugar slightly in the topping or add a pinch more sea salt for contrast.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about this Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe that brings together the best of both desserts in one, glorious bite. Rich, fudgy, nutty, and sticky, it’s a treat that’s hard to resist and even harder to forget. Next time you want to wow your friends or treat yourself, give this recipe a go—you’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Pecan Pie Brownies combine rich, fudgy chocolate brownies with a gooey, nutty pecan pie topping for a decadent dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Featuring a double-layer technique with a chocolate base and a sweet, buttery pecan topping, these brownies deliver a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 200 g unsalted butter
- 200 g dark chocolate
- 275 g light brown soft sugar
- 4 medium eggs
- 100 g plain flour
- 50 g cocoa powder
Pecan Pie Topping
- 50 g unsalted butter
- 115 g light brown soft sugar
- 75 g golden syrup
- 250 g pecans, chopped
- 1 medium egg
- Pinch of sea salt (optional)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 180ºC (160ºC fan). Line a 9×9 inch square baking tin with parchment paper and set aside for later use.
- Melt Chocolate and Butter: Place the dark chocolate and 200 g unsalted butter in a bowl and melt together until smooth, using the microwave or a double boiler. Allow this mixture to cool for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Mix Eggs and Sugar: In a separate bowl, whisk together 275 g light brown soft sugar and 4 eggs for several minutes until the mixture doubles in volume and becomes mousse-like in texture.
- Combine Brownie Batter: Gently fold the cooled chocolate and butter mixture into the egg and sugar mixture. Then fold in the plain flour and cocoa powder until just combined to form the brownie batter.
- Bake Brownie Base: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared tin and bake in the oven for 25 minutes to set the base partially.
- Prepare Pecan Topping: While the brownie base is baking, melt 50 g unsalted butter, 115 g light brown soft sugar, and 75 g golden syrup together in a pan over medium heat until smooth. Allow this to cool for 5 minutes.
- Mix Pecan Topping Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the cooled syrup mixture with 250 g chopped pecans, 1 egg, a pinch of sea salt if using, and 1 tsp vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Add Topping to Brownies: Remove the brownie base from the oven and carefully spoon the pecan mixture in small dollops over the top. Spread gently for even coverage.
- Bake with Topping: Return the tin to the oven and bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes until the topping is golden, bubbly, and set.
- Cool and Set: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the tin, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours to fully set the layers and enhance flavor.
- Serve: Once chilled and set, slice into squares and enjoy your pecan pie brownies!
Notes
- Using parchment paper makes it easier to lift the brownies out of the tin for slicing.
- Be careful not to over-bake the brownies; they should be fudgy in the center.
- For a nut-free version, omit pecans and add extra chocolate chips or a caramel topping.
- Golden syrup can be substituted with light corn syrup or honey, but flavor may vary slightly.
- These brownies keep well refrigerated for up to 4 days and can be frozen for longer storage.
