Pecan Pie Brownies are a delightful fusion of two classic desserts that hold a special place in my heart. Growing up in Greece, I was introduced to a variety of sweet treats, but it wasn’t until I moved to London and married my Mexican husband that I truly began experimenting with diverse flavors. This recipe combines the rich, chocolatey goodness of brownies with the nutty, caramelized sweetness of pecan pie, creating a unique dessert that brings together the best of both worlds.

Why Pecan Pie Brownies Are a Great Choice

Pecan Pie Brownies offer a unique combination of textures and flavors that make them a standout dessert. The fudgy brownie base provides a rich, chocolatey foundation, while the pecan pie topping adds a satisfying crunch and a hint of caramelized sweetness. This dessert is perfect for those who love the gooeyness of brownies and the nutty flavor of pecan pie, making it an ideal treat for any occasion.

Ingredients List

To create these delicious Pecan Pie Brownies, you will need:

– Unsalted Butter: 3/4 cup, melted
– Granulated Sugar: 1 cup
– Brown Sugar: 1/2 cup
– Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
– Eggs: 3 large
– All-Purpose Flour: 3/4 cup
– Cocoa Powder: 1/2 cup
– Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
– Pecans: 1 cup, chopped
– Corn Syrup: 1/2 cup
– Heavy Cream: 1/4 cup

Cooking Time and Serving Information

– Preparation Time: 20 minutes
– Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
– Total Time: About 1 hour
– Makes: Approximately 16 brownies

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Brownie Base:

– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish and line it with parchment paper.
– In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, and 1/4 cup of brown sugar. Mix until well combined.
– Add 2 eggs and vanilla extract to the mixture, stirring until smooth.
– Sift in the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
– Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

2. Prepare the Pecan Pie Topping:

– In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining brown sugar, corn syrup, heavy cream, and the last egg until smooth.
– Stir in the chopped pecans until they are evenly coated with the mixture.

3. Assemble and Bake:

– Pour the pecan pie topping evenly over the brownie batter in the baking dish.
– Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is set and the edges of the brownies start to pull away from the sides of the dish.
– Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.

Nutritional Information:

Each brownie contains approximately:
– Calories: 280
– Carbohydrates: 35g
– Proteins: 3g
– Fat: 15g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different type of nut?

– Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile.

How do I store Pecan Pie Brownies?

– Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the fridge for up to a week.

Can I freeze these brownies?

– Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to two months.

Tips for Perfect Pecan Pie Brownies Every Time

1. Use Quality Cocoa: For the best chocolate flavor, use high-quality cocoa powder.
2. Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the brownies to avoid overbaking, which can make them dry.
3. Let Them Cool Fully: Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean slices.

These Pecan Pie Brownies are a delicious blend of flavors and textures, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and impressing guests with a unique dessert.