Pecan Pie Brownies

Introduction

There’s a special place in my heart for desserts that combine the best of two worlds, and these Pecan Pie Brownies do just that! When I first made this recipe, I was looking for a new treat to impress my family during the holidays. Little did I know that this delicious combination of rich, fudgy brownies topped with a gooey pecan pie filling would steal the show. As soon as I pulled them from the oven, the warm, nutty aroma filled the kitchen, making it impossible for anyone to resist. My family couldn’t get enough of these brownies, and they quickly became a staple at our family gatherings. They are perfect for any occasion and are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful dessert!

Ingredients

For the Brownies:

• 1 box Brownie mix (must have instructions for making in a 13×9 inch pan + ingredients listed on the 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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven according to the brownie package instructions. Make sure your rack is in the center of the oven for even baking.

Step 2: Prepare 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 on the stovetop. Cook the mixture, stirring continuously, until it begins to thicken, about 15 minutes. You want it to be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Step 3: Mix the Brownie Batter

While the filling thickens, prepare the brownie batter according to the package instructions. Make sure to use a greased 13×9 inch baking pan as specified.

Step 4: Bake the Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into the greased pan and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 20 minutes. Note: You want the brownies to be slightly underbaked at this stage, as they will continue to cook when the pecan filling is added.

Step 5: Add the Pecan Filling

Once the pecan pie filling has thickened to the consistency of runny oatmeal, remove it from the heat and stir in the chopped pecans. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the mixture is just thick enough to pour over the brownies.

Step 6: Combine and Bake Again

After the brownies have finished pre-baking, carefully pour the pecan pie filling over the top, spreading it evenly to cover the brownies completely. Place the pan back in the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes. The filling should jiggle slightly in the center when the pan is moved.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let the brownies cool to room temperature before cutting them into squares. Enjoy your decadent Pecan Pie Brownies!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 12
• Calories per serving: 350
• Total Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 200mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 53g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 30g
• Protein: 4g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

How to Serve

• Warm: Serve the brownies warm for a gooey texture.
• With Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top adds a delightful contrast to the warm brownies.
• Garnish: Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for added decadence.
• With Coffee: Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.

Additional Tips

1. Use Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, use high-quality butter and fresh pecans.
2. Check Brownie Doneness: The brownies should be slightly underbaked to ensure they stay fudgy.
3. Let Cool Completely: Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting for cleaner slices.
4. Add a Dash of Salt: A pinch of sea salt on top can enhance the sweetness of the pecan filling.
5. Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Pecan Brownies: Add chocolate chips to the brownie batter for an extra chocolaty treat.
• Nut-Free Version: Substitute the pecans with chocolate chips or dried fruit for a nut-free alternative.
• Spiced Pecan Filling: Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the pecan filling for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Coconut Pecan Brownies: Mix in shredded coconut with the pecans for a tropical twist.

Serving Suggestions

• At Family Gatherings: Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or family reunions.
• Birthday Parties: Delight guests with a sweet treat that’s sure to please everyone.
• Coffee Shops: Serve as a delicious dessert option for cafes or bake sales.
• Gift Baskets: Include these brownies in gift baskets for friends and family during holidays.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Cut the brownies into squares and freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Storing: Keep brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
   Yes, these brownies can be made a day in advance and stored covered at room temperature.
2. Can I use a different type of nut?
   Absolutely! You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer.
3. What if I don’t have light corn syrup?
   You can substitute with dark corn syrup, honey, or maple syrup, though the flavor may vary slightly.
4. How do I know when the pecan filling is done?
   The filling should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon and jiggle slightly when you shake the pan.
5. Can I use a homemade brownie mix?
   Yes! If you have a favorite homemade brownie recipe, you can use that in place of the boxed mix.
6. What can I do with leftover pecans?
   Leftover pecans can be stored in an airtight container and used in other recipes like salads, granola, or cookies.
7. Are these brownies gluten-free?
   They are not gluten-free unless you use a gluten-free brownie mix.
8. Can I add more chocolate?
   Yes, feel free to fold in chocolate chips or chunks into the brownie batter for an extra chocolatey treat.
9. What should I serve with these brownies?
   A scoop of ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce pairs perfectly.
10. How do I make them more festive?
    Decorate with seasonal sprinkles or serve with a dusting of powdered sugar for a festive touch.

Conclusion

Pecan Pie Brownies are the ultimate indulgent treat, merging the rich flavors of brownies with the classic sweetness of pecan pie. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive holiday gatherings. With its simple preparation and mouthwatering results, you’ll find that these brownies will quickly become a favorite in your household. Enjoy each delicious bite and watch as your friends and family fall in love with this delightful dessert!

Print