After moving to the States, I really looked forward to my first Thanksgiving gathering with my new American friends. Warm, fuzzy holiday movies had filled my mind with certain expectations, and I was not disappointed. Of course, the main course was delicious, but the dessert was a showstopper: pecan pie. The pie crusted with toasted pecans and the sweetest, most rich, gooey syrup hooked me from the first bite. Now, being the chocoholic brownie-lover I am, pecan pie brownies seemed the best way to merge these classic treats into one unforgettable extravaganza.
Recipe Ingredients
Brownie Layer Pecan Pie Layer
How to Make Pecan Pie Brownies
The Brownies
Preheat your oven to 350°F/175°C. Prepare the baking pan – Spray a 9″x13″ or an 8 “×8”-inch baking pan (for thicker brownies) with oil spray and line with parchment paper. Leave a 2-inch overhang on both sides to lift the brownies out easier after they cool. Then grease the parchment paper with baking spray. Set the pan aside. Melt Chocolate – Combine the chocolate chips (or chunks) and butter in a medium bowl. Then melt in the microwave, stopping and stirring frequently every 20-30 seconds so it doesn’t burn, usually about 2 minutes. Keep stirring the chocolate until it is smooth, shiny, and completely melted. (If microwaving isn’t your thing, then melt in a double boiler over medium heat, stirring occasionally until melted.) Make the Brownies – Whisk the eggs in a large bowl. Then add and whisk the sugar, brown sugar, vanilla, and salt until combined. Add Chocolate – Stir in the melted chocolate, then gently fold the flour and cocoa powder in until thoroughly combined. First Bake – Pour the batter into a prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25–35 minutes or until slightly undercooked.
The Pecan Pie Topping
Pecan Pie Topping – Prepare the pecan pie topping while the brownies are baking. In a medium mixing bowl, mix the brown sugar, corn syrup, granulated sugar, melted butter, ground cinnamon, vanilla, and eggs until thoroughly combined (no visible clumps of sugar remaining). Fold in the chopped pecans until they’re evenly coated with the mixture. Assemble – Remove brownies from the oven once they are finished pre-baking. Pour the pecan filling over the top and spread it evenly over the brownies using a spatula. Bake Again – Return the brownies to the oven and bake for 25-30 more minutes. After 25 minutes, check the brownies for doneness by lifting one side of the pan to see if the filling is jiggly (it should be a bit soft because it’s hot). Carefully remove the brownies from the oven and cool the pan on a wire rack. Use the edge of a thin silicone spatula to loosen the edges from the pan. As the brownies cool, the sugar hardens, making removing the pecan brownies easier. Cool the brownies completely (2-3 hours) before lifting them from the pan. Serve – Slice brownies, top with ice cream if desired, and enjoy!
Recipe Variations
Tips and Tricks
Make-Ahead Instructions
You can make your brownie batter ahead of time. Pour your batter into a greased and lined baking pan. Then, cover the pan tightly with plastic or foil and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Then remove the plastic wrap and bake it once the batter reaches room temperature. The pecan pie topping can also be prepared beforehand. Once mixed, you can store the pecan pie filling in the refrigerator for 3 days.
Serving and Storage Instructions
Allow your brownie pecan pie to cool to room temperature, and serve with a dollop of fresh whipped cream. Or try a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a nice contrast with a slice of warmed pecan brownie pie. Completely cool your brownies before storing them. Then cut them into slices or squares and place them in an airtight container (airtight lid or sealable plastic bag). Store in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. Freeze for 3 months.
What to Serve With Pecan Pie Brownies
Pecan pie holds a special place at most Thanksgiving and Christmas tables. So serve up your delicious pecan pie brownies after a hearty dinner of pineapple honey-baked ham or collard greens with smoked turkey. Or it can be a guilt-free dessert indulgence after a shrimp salad or Cajun honey butter salmon.
More Decadent Cocoa Powder Recipes to Try
Conclusion
A few simple ingredients are all you need to create this pecan pie brownie recipe that will have your friends and family begging for more. Why not make this delicious pecan brownie pie for your next gathering? And let me know how you wowed your guests in the comments below. 😍
Watch How to Make It
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