Irresistible Pecan Pie Brownies: The Ultimate Fudgy Holiday Dessert
Prepare for a dessert revelation with these incredible Pecan Pie Brownies! This recipe masterfully combines the rich, fudgy goodness of classic brownies with the sweet, nutty allure of traditional pecan pie. It’s a delightful fusion that elevates a simple box brownie mix into an extraordinary holiday treat, perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion. Forget choosing between your favorite desserts – now you can have the best of both worlds in one decadent bite!
Why This Pecan Pie Brownie Recipe is a Must-Try
Imagine a luscious pecan pie, but instead of a pastry crust, it rests upon a thick, intensely fudgy brownie base. That’s precisely what these pecan pie brownies offer! This ingenious recipe simplifies the baking process by starting with a convenient, high-quality brownie mix. This saves you valuable time and effort in the kitchen, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels. On top of that perfect brownie layer, we add a homemade, buttery, sweet, and nutty pecan pie filling that bakes to sticky, glorious perfection.
The magic truly happens with the combination of textures and flavors. The dense, chocolatey brownie perfectly complements the crunchy pecans suspended in a gooey, caramel-like topping. Even if you’re not typically a fan of traditional pecan pie, this unique twist is incredibly addictive. The rich cocoa notes from the brownie balance the sweetness of the pecan topping, creating a sophisticated dessert that’s truly “next level.” For an extra touch of indulgence, a drizzle of warm caramel and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can transform these brownies into an unforgettable gourmet experience. The hardest part, truly, is summoning the patience to let these exquisite brownies cool before diving in!
Key Ingredients for Your Pecan Pie Brownies
Below is a visual guide to the ingredients. For precise measurements and detailed instructions, scroll down to the printable recipe card at the very end of this post.
Ingredient Spotlight & Expert Tips
Let’s dive a little deeper into the ingredients to ensure your Pecan Pie Brownies turn out perfectly every time:
For the Brownie Layer:
- Brownie Mix: We highly recommend using an 18-ounce box of dark chocolate fudge brownie mix. Our preferred choice is Duncan Hines Dark Chocolate Fudge Brownie Mix for its consistently fudgy texture. The 18-ounce size is crucial for this recipe as it provides a thicker brownie base that can withstand the second bake with the pecan topping without drying out. Many modern brownie mixes are 16 or 17 ounces, which might result in a thinner, potentially drier brownie after double baking. Always check the box weight! Of course, if you prefer a completely homemade approach and have extra time, feel free to prepare your favorite fudge brownie recipe from scratch. Just ensure it yields a similar volume to an 18-ounce box mix.
- Brownie Mix Ingredients: Don’t forget the additional ingredients specified on your brownie mix box (e.g., eggs, oil, water). These are essential for preparing the brownie base correctly.
For the Pecan Pie Topping:
- Pecan Halves: Two cups of roughly chopped pecan halves are ideal. Chopping them yourself ensures a good mix of smaller and larger pieces, adding wonderful texture. While halves look beautiful, roughly chopping them helps them integrate better into the gooey topping and makes for easier slicing. You can lightly toast your pecans before adding them to the mixture for an enhanced nutty flavor, though this is optional.
- Unsalted Butter: Six tablespoons (3/4 stick) of melted unsalted butter are key to achieving that rich, luxurious texture and flavor in the pecan topping. Unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dessert.
- Brown Sugar: We use ¼ cup of brown sugar. You can opt for either light or dark brown sugar; dark brown sugar will lend a slightly deeper, more molasses-like flavor to the topping, which complements the pecans beautifully.
- Corn Syrup: Two tablespoons of corn syrup are essential for the signature gooey, chewy texture of pecan pie filling. It helps prevent crystallization of the sugar and creates that glossy, sticky finish.
- Honey: Two tablespoons of honey add another layer of sweetness and a distinct, aromatic flavor profile that enhances the richness of the topping.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: Two tablespoons of heavy cream contribute to the creamy, smooth consistency of the pecan pie mixture, making it even more decadent.
- Salt: A ¼ teaspoon of salt is vital to balance the sweetness of the topping and enhance all the other flavors. Don’t skip it!
Optional Garnishes:
- Flaky Sea Salt: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top provides a beautiful contrast, cutting through the sweetness and adding a gourmet touch.
- Caramel Sauce: About ½ cup of store-bought caramel sauce is perfect for an optional decadent drizzle just before serving. You can also make your own homemade caramel if you prefer.
How to Make Easy Pecan Pie Brownies: Step-by-Step Guide
These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are here to guide you through the process of making these delicious pecan pie brownies. For a comprehensive printable version of this recipe, complete with precise measurements and instructions, please jump to the recipe card at the bottom of this page.
- Prepare Your Pan & Oven: Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (176°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature before the brownies go in. Next, grease and line a 9×9-inch metal baking pan with parchment paper. Leave an overhang of parchment paper on all four sides; these will serve as convenient “handles” to easily lift the cooled brownies out of the pan later.
- Bake the Brownie Base: Prepare the brownie batter exactly as instructed on the back of your 18-ounce brownie mix box. Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and bake according to the package directions. Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely to room temperature. This step is crucial to prevent the pecan topping from melting into the brownies prematurely.
- Mix the Pecan Topping: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the roughly chopped pecans, melted unsalted butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, honey, heavy cream, and salt. Stir all these ingredients together with a rubber spatula until they are thoroughly combined and evenly coated. The mixture should look rich and glossy.
- Add Topping to Brownies: Once the brownies are completely cool, carefully spoon the pecan mixture evenly over the top of the cooled brownie layer. Use your spatula or the back of a spoon to gently spread the mixture, ensuring the pecans and the gooey sauce extend all the way to the corners and outer edges of the brownie. This ensures every piece gets a generous amount of delicious topping.
- Bake Again: Return the baking pan with the topped brownies to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes. During this second bake, the pecan topping will set and become wonderfully golden and caramelized, while infusing the top layer of the brownies with its sweet, buttery essence.
- Cool and Chill: Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled to room temperature, transfer the pan to the refrigerator and allow the brownies to chill for at least 1 hour. Chilling is a vital step as it helps the pecan topping to fully set and makes the brownies much easier to cut into clean, neat squares. For the best results and easiest cutting, a chill time of 2-3 hours or even overnight is highly recommended.
- Slice and Serve: Once thoroughly chilled, gently lift the entire slab of brownies from the pan using the parchment paper “handles.” Place the slab onto a sturdy cutting board. Using a sharp chef’s knife, carefully cut the brownies into 16 even portions. For clean cuts, wipe your knife with a warm, damp cloth between slices. Finally, sprinkle with flaky sea salt and drizzle with store-bought or homemade caramel sauce, if desired, before serving. Enjoy your delicious homemade pecan pie brownies!
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Baking Tips
Yes, you absolutely can! If you don’t have a 9×9-inch baking pan, an 8×8-inch pan will work. However, be aware that the brownies and the pecan topping will be noticeably thicker. This means you’ll need to adjust the initial brownie baking time according to the instructions provided on your specific brownie mix box for an 8×8-inch pan. Once the pecan topping is added, the second bake time remains the same at 20 minutes. Keep a close eye on them during both baking stages to ensure they don’t overbake, especially the thicker brownie layer.
Surprisingly, it’s quite the opposite for this recipe! The generous amounts of butter, honey, and corn syrup present in the pecan topping actually seep into the top layer of the brownies during the second bake. This infusion results in an incredibly moist, soft, and wonderfully gooey brownie rather than a dry one. This effect is maximized when you use an 18-ounce brownie mix, which provides a robust enough base. Brownie mixes that are smaller (16 or 17 ounces) might indeed be more prone to drying out with a double bake, so always ensure you’re using the recommended 18-ounce size for optimal fudginess.
To maintain their freshness and delightful texture, store any leftover pecan pie brownies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to 5 days. If your kitchen tends to be very warm, or if you prefer a firmer brownie, you can also store them in the refrigerator, but allow them to come closer to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Absolutely! These pecan pie brownies are an excellent make-ahead dessert, perfect for holiday gatherings or parties. In fact, many people find that the flavors meld and deepen even further by the next day, making them taste even better! You can prepare, bake, and completely cool these brownies a day or two in advance. After they’ve cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Chilling them overnight in the refrigerator before cutting can also lead to cleaner slices and a perfectly set topping.
Yes, these brownies freeze beautifully! Once completely cooled and cut into individual squares, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 30 minutes to an hour, or until firm. Then, transfer the frozen brownies to an airtight freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them at room temperature for several hours or overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Delightful Serving Suggestions
While Pecan Pie Brownies are undeniably exquisite on their own, a few extra touches can elevate them even further. A generous drizzle of warm caramel sauce and a delicate sprinkle of flaky sea salt are always a winning combination, adding both visual appeal and an extra layer of flavor complexity. For an ultimate dessert experience, serve these brownies slightly warm with a scoop of premium vanilla bean ice cream. The contrast between the warm, fudgy brownie, the gooey pecan topping, and the cold, melting ice cream is pure bliss. Alternatively, enjoy them at room temperature with a freshly brewed cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk for a comforting treat.
More Decadent Dessert Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re a fan of rich, satisfying desserts, especially those featuring chocolate and nuts, you’re in for a treat! Explore some of our other beloved recipes:
- Pecan Tassies: Miniature pecan pies, perfect for portion control and party platters.
- Chocolate Turtles: A classic candy featuring pecans, caramel, and chocolate – just like these brownies but in a bite-sized form!
- Salted Brownie Cookies: All the chewy, chocolatey goodness of a brownie, in a convenient cookie form, enhanced with sea salt.
- Chocolate Cheesecake Brownies: A luxurious combination of fudgy brownies swirled with creamy cheesecake.
- Butterscotch Brownies: A delightful twist for those who love butterscotch’s sweet, caramelized notes.
- Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies: A seasonal sensation, marrying rich pumpkin cheesecake with fudgy brownies.
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Pecan Pie Brownies
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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going dark
Dessert
American
16 servings
301
Amanda Davis
Ingredients
- 18.2
ounce box of brownie mix plus
ingredients on back of the box - 2
cups pecan halves roughly
chopped - 6
Tablespoons unsalted butter melted.
3/4 stick - ¼
cup brown sugar - 2
Tablespoons corn syrup - 2
Tablespoons honey - 2
Tablespoons heavy whipping cream - ¼
teaspoon salt - flakey sea salt
- ½
cup store bought caramel sauce for
optional drizzle
Things You’ll Need
-
9×9 baking
pan -
Parchment
paper
Before You Begin
- You can use either light or dark brown sugar for the pecan topping, depending on your
preference for a milder or deeper caramel flavor. - We highly recommend using an 18-ounce box of brownie mix for this
recipe. This size ensures a thick, fudgy base that can withstand the second baking
process without drying out, which is common with smaller 16 or 17-ounce mixes. - If you don’t have a 9×9-inch baking pan, an 8×8-inch pan can be used. Be aware that
the brownies and pecan topping will be thicker. Adjust the initial brownie baking
time according to your brownie box instructions for an 8×8 pan, but keep the second
bake (with topping) at 20 minutes. - Ensure your brownies are completely cooled to room temperature before adding the
pecan topping. This prevents the topping from prematurely melting into the brownie
layer.
Instructions
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C). Prepare a
9×9-inch metal baking pan by greasing it and lining it with parchment
paper, leaving ample overhang on all four sides to create lifting
handles. -
Prepare and bake the brownies according to the
instructions on the back of your 18.2 ounce brownie mix box. Once baked,
allow the brownies to cool completely to room temperature in the pan.18.2 ounce box of brownie
mix -
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the roughly chopped
pecans, melted unsalted butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, honey, heavy
cream, and salt. Stir until all ingredients are well combined and the pecans
are evenly coated.2 cups pecan halves,
6 Tablespoons unsalted
butter, 1/4 cup brown sugar,
2 Tablespoons corn syrup,
2 Tablespoons honey,
2 Tablespoons heavy
whipping cream, 1/4 teaspoon salt -
Once the brownies are completely cooled, evenly
spread the pecan mixture over the top of the brownie layer in the
pan. Ensure the mixture reaches all corners and edges for uniform coverage. -
Return the baking pan to the oven and bake for an
additional 20 minutes, allowing the pecan topping to set and
caramelize. -
Remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool
completely on a wire rack. Once at room temperature, transfer the pan to
the refrigerator and chill the brownies for at least 1 hour.TIP:
For optimal firmness and ease of cutting, it is highly recommended to chill
the brownies for a minimum of 1 hour, with 2-3 hours or even overnight being
ideal. -
Gently lift the chilled brownies from the pan using
the parchment paper “handles” and place the entire slab onto a cutting
board. Using a sharp chef’s knife, divide the brownies into 16 equal
portions. For clean slices, wipe the knife blade clean between each cut.
Finally, sprinkle with flaky sea salt and drizzle with caramel sauce (if
using) just before serving.
Expert Tips & FAQs
- Enhanced Flavor: The flavors of these brownies intensify beautifully
over time. For the best taste experience, we highly recommend waiting until the next
day to enjoy them (if you can resist!). This allows the pecan topping to fully meld
with the fudgy brownie base. - Make Ahead: You can easily prepare, bake, and store these brownies
a day or two in advance of when you plan to serve them. Just ensure they are
completely cooled before storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. - Storage Tips: Store any leftover pecan pie brownies in an airtight
container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, see our FAQ
about freezing these brownies. - Clean Cuts: For perfectly neat squares, ensure the brownies are
thoroughly chilled (preferably for 2-3 hours or overnight in the refrigerator)
before slicing. Using a sharp chef’s knife and wiping the blade clean with a warm,
damp cloth between each cut will help prevent sticking and ensure pristine portions. - Toasting Pecans (Optional): For an even deeper, more intense nutty
flavor, you can lightly toast your chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat
for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, before adding them to the topping mixture. Let
them cool before mixing.
Nutrition
Calories: 301cal |
Carbohydrates: 35g |
Protein: 3g |
Fat: 18g |
Saturated Fat: 5g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 8g |
Trans Fat: 0.2g |
Cholesterol: 13mg |
Sodium: 134mg |
Potassium: 60mg |
Fiber: 1g |
Sugar: 24g |
Vitamin A: 166IU |
Vitamin C: 0.2mg |
Calcium: 15mg |
Iron: 1mg
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The recipes on this blog are tested
with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens,
especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer
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