Pecan Pie Brownies

Introduction

There’s something magical about combining two beloved desserts into one delightful treat, and that’s exactly what Pecan Pie Brownies achieve. I recently made this decadent dessert for a family gathering, and it was a resounding success. The rich, fudgy brownies serve as the perfect base for a gooey, sweet pecan pie filling. Every bite is a harmonious blend of chocolate and the warm, nutty flavors of pecans, creating an experience that had everyone going back for seconds (and thirds!). If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s sure to impress, these Pecan Pie Brownies are the way to go!

Ingredients

For the Brownies:

• 1 box brownie mix (must have instructions for making in a 13×9 pan)
• Ingredients listed on the brownie package

For the Pecan Pie Filling:

• 1 cup sugar
• 1 1/2 cups light corn syrup
• 4 eggs
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups pecans, roughly chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven according to the brownie package instructions.
2. Make the Pecan Pie Filling:

• In a small saucepan, whisk together the sugar, corn syrup, eggs, butter, and vanilla extract. Place the saucepan over medium-high heat.
• Cook the mixture, stirring continuously, until it begins to thicken (about 15 minutes). The mixture should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
• Stir in the chopped pecans and continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the mixture reaches the consistency of runny oatmeal. It should be loose enough to pour over the brownies but not completely liquid.

1. Prepare the Brownie Base:

• Prepare the brownie mix according to the package instructions. Grease a 13×9 inch pan and pour the brownie batter into the pan.
• Bake the brownies in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes. (Note: You may need to adjust this time based on your specific brownie mix instructions.)

1. Combine the Two:

• Once the brownies have pre-baked, remove them from the oven. Carefully pour the pecan pie filling over the brownies, spreading it out to cover the surface completely.
• Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes. The filling should jiggle slightly in the middle when you move the pan but should not be liquid.

1. Cool and Serve:

• Let the brownies cool to room temperature before cutting them into squares. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 16
• Calories per serving: ~350

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes (including baking and cooling)
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

How to Serve

• Warm: Serve warm for a gooey texture.
• With Ice Cream: Top with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Garnish: Drizzle with chocolate sauce or caramel for added sweetness.

Additional Tips

1. Check Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the brownie base is done; it should come out mostly clean, with a few moist crumbs.
2. Cool Completely: Allow the brownies to cool completely for easier slicing.
3. Chop Pecans Evenly: For a uniform texture, chop pecans into similar-sized pieces.
4. Substitute Corn Syrup: Use maple syrup or honey as a substitute for light corn syrup if desired.
5. Experiment with Nuts: Feel free to mix in walnuts or even chocolate chips for extra flavor.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Pecan Pie Brownies: Add a cup of chocolate chips to the brownie batter for an extra chocolatey treat.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free brownie mix to make this dessert suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
• Bourbon Pecan Pie Filling: Add 1-2 tablespoons of bourbon to the filling for a richer flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Coffee: Pair with a cup of coffee or espresso for a delightful dessert experience.
• Whipped Cream: Serve with a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top.
• Seasonal Fruits: Fresh berries or banana slices make a refreshing complement.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual brownie squares in plastic wrap and then in foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use homemade brownies?

• Yes, you can use your favorite homemade brownie recipe.

1. What if I don’t have corn syrup?

• You can substitute it with honey or maple syrup, but the texture may vary slightly.

1. How do I know when the brownies are done?

• The filling should jiggle slightly but not be liquid, and the edges should be set.

1. Can I make this ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare the brownies and filling the day before serving.

1. What can I use instead of pecans?

• Walnuts or a mix of nuts can be used for a different flavor.

1. Can I add chocolate chips to the filling?

• Absolutely! Fold in chocolate chips with the pecans for added richness.

1. What’s the best way to cut these brownies?

• Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat slices.

1. How do I store leftovers?

• Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

1. Can I make a smaller batch?

• Yes, you can halve the recipe and use a smaller pan.

1. What should I serve these brownies with?
   • They pair well with ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

Conclusion

Pecan Pie Brownies are a delightful fusion of two classic desserts that will surely satisfy any sweet tooth. The fudgy brownie base paired with the sweet, gooey pecan pie filling creates a rich and indulgent treat that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve them at a family gathering, holiday party, or simply as a weekend treat, these brownies are sure to be a hit. So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a slice of this heavenly dessert!

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