Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe
Introduction
Pecan Pie Brownies are a delightful hybrid dessert, combining the rich, gooey sweetness of pecan pie with the fudgy texture of brownies.
This dessert is perfect for those who love indulgent, comforting treats that offer both a chocolatey base and a crunchy, caramelized topping.
Whether it’s a family gathering, a holiday dinner, or just a special treat, Pecan Pie Brownies deliver a crowd-pleasing experience with every bite.
Origin and Cultural Significance
The origin of pecan pie dates back to the Southern United States, where pecans are abundant.
The dessert became a staple in Southern kitchens, especially during Thanksgiving and other festive occasions.
Over time, the flavors of pecan pie inspired creative variations, such as Pecan Pie Brownies, which blend the rich textures of traditional brownies with the nutty, sweet qualities of pecan pie.
The combination brings together the best of both worlds, making it a beloved dessert for many.
Ingredients and Quantity
For Brownie Base:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
For Pecan Pie Topping:
- 1 cup corn syrup (light or dark)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecan halves
Optional Additions
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (for a richer flavor)
- 1/2 cup toffee bits (for extra crunch and sweetness)
- A pinch of sea salt (sprinkled on top for contrast)
- A splash of bourbon or rum (for added depth of flavor)
Tips for Success
- Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure that the butter and eggs are at room temperature to help them combine more smoothly, resulting in a more consistent batter.
- Do not overmix the brownie batter: Overmixing can lead to a denser texture rather than a fudgy, moist one.
- Toast the pecans: Lightly toast the pecans in a dry pan before adding them to the topping. This enhances their flavor and gives them a lovely crunch.
- Monitor baking times: Baking times can vary depending on your oven and pan size. Test with a toothpick — the brownie base should be slightly underdone, as it will continue cooking under the topping.
Instructions
- Prepare the brownie base: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Whisk in the eggs and vanilla extract. Stir in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth it evenly.
- Bake the brownie base: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Remove from the oven and set aside.
- Prepare the pecan pie topping: In a medium bowl, whisk together corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir in the pecans until evenly coated.
- Assemble and bake: Carefully pour the pecan topping over the baked brownie base, spreading it evenly. Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is set and slightly golden.
- Cool and serve: Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least an hour before cutting them into squares. For best results, refrigerate before serving to help the topping firm up.
Description
Pecan Pie Brownies are a decadent dessert with a layer of fudgy, chocolatey brownie topped with a rich, caramelized pecan pie filling.
The pecans provide a delightful crunch, while the gooey syrupy topping adds a perfect balance of sweetness and richness.
The combination of chocolate and pecans creates an irresistible contrast, making these brownies a unique and comforting treat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 16 servings):
- Calories: 310
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 26g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Sodium: 95mg
(Values may vary based on exact ingredients and serving sizes.)
Conclusion
Pecan Pie Brownies are an indulgent dessert that marries two beloved treats into one irresistible dish. The rich chocolatey base provides the perfect contrast to the sweet, nutty topping.
They are perfect for any occasion where you want to impress friends and family with a dessert that’s both familiar and innovative.
Recommendation
For a truly indulgent experience, pair your Pecan Pie Brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. These brownies also make a great gift, as they can be packaged beautifully and enjoyed by anyone with a sweet tooth.
While not exactly light on calories, they are a perfect treat for special occasions, allowing you to embrace indulgence in a balanced way.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While this dessert is definitely on the indulgent side, there are ways to make it a bit more health-conscious without sacrificing flavor.
Consider using a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit, and replace some of the butter with a healthier fat like coconut oil.
For a more nutritious brownie base, you can swap the all-purpose flour with almond flour, which adds protein and healthy fats. Additionally, dark chocolate can replace regular cocoa for a slightly more antioxidant-rich treat.
With these small modifications, you can still enjoy the deliciousness of Pecan Pie Brownies while embracing a more healthful indulgence!