Easy Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe

The Best Fudgy Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe You’ll Ever Make

Chocolate and pecans dance together in these decadent pecan pie brownies that promise pure indulgence.

Each bite delivers a rich, gooey experience that melts in your mouth.

The classic brownie base gets an irresistible Southern twist with a luscious pecan pie layer.

Nutty, sweet, and incredibly smooth, these brownies blend two beloved desserts into one spectacular treat.

Layers of deep chocolate and caramelized pecans create a dessert that’s both familiar and exciting.

The contrast of textures makes every forkful a delightful surprise.

Prepare to fall in love with this ultimate dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why Pecan Pie Brownies Are Special

  • Elevate Dessert Experience: Combine two beloved classics – brownies and pecan pie – into one decadent, show-stopping treat that will impress family and friends.
  • Master Bakery-Level Technique: Create professional-looking marbled swirls without complicated skills, making you feel like a professional pastry chef right in your own kitchen.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap pecans for different nuts or add chocolate chips to personalize this crowd-pleasing dessert that works for potlucks, gatherings, or sweet weekend indulgences.
  • Quick Crowd-Pleaser: Prepare this delightful dessert with minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, guaranteeing a rich, gooey result that takes less time than traditional pie-making.

Pecan Pie Brownies Ingredient List

Main Ingredients:

Brownie Base:
  • Butter: Provides rich flavor and helps create a moist texture.
  • Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a smooth brownie base.
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to the dense brownie texture.
  • Cocoa Powder: Delivers deep chocolate flavor to the brownies.
  • All-Purpose Flour: Gives structure to the brownie batter.
Pecan Pie Layer:
  • Pecans: Adds crunch and nutty flavor to the dessert.
  • Brown Sugar: Provides a rich, caramel-like sweetness.
  • Corn Syrup: Creates a gooey, sticky texture in the pecan layer.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Vanilla Extract, Salt: Intensify and balance the overall flavor of the dessert.
  • Egg Yolk: Adds richness and helps bind the pecan pie layer.
  • Melted Butter: Contributes to the smooth and rich consistency of both layers.

Pecan Pie Brownie Instructions

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 350F (175C).

Grab an 8×8 inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over for super easy brownie removal.

Step 2: Create Brownie Magic

Melt butter in a microwave-safe bowl.

Whisk in granulated sugar until smooth.

Add eggs one by one, stirring thoroughly after each.

Splash in vanilla extract for extra flavor.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

Sift cocoa powder into the bowl.

Gently fold in:
  • Flour
  • Salt

Blend carefully without overmixing.

Spread the chocolatey goodness evenly across the prepared pan.

Step 4: Craft Pecan Pie Topping

In a separate bowl, combine:
  • Chopped pecans
  • Brown sugar
  • Corn syrup
  • Melted butter
  • Egg yolk
  • Vanilla extract
  • Salt

Stir until everything plays nicely together.

Step 5: Create Delicious Swirls

Spoon the pecan mixture over the brownie base.

Use a knife to gently swirl the layers, creating a beautiful marbled pattern.

Keep those layers distinct and dreamy.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into the oven.

Bake for 25-30 minutes.

You’ll know it’s done when the center looks set and a toothpick comes out with just a few moist crumbs.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Let the brownies chill completely on a wire rack.

Use the parchment paper to lift them out.

Slice into squares and get ready to devour your masterpiece.

Tips for Fudgy Pecan Brownies

  • Gently fold dry ingredients into brownie batter to maintain a soft, fudgy texture without developing tough gluten strands.
  • When combining pecan pie layer with brownie batter, use light, gentle movements to create beautiful marbling without completely blending layers.
  • Insert a toothpick near the center – a few moist crumbs indicate perfect brownies, while wet batter means more baking time is needed.
  • Let eggs and butter sit at room temperature before mixing to ensure smoother, more evenly incorporated batter.
  • Lightly toast pecans before chopping to enhance their nutty flavor and add extra depth to the dessert.

Creative Pecan Pie Brownie Twists

  • Gluten-Free Pecan Pie Brownies: Replace regular flour with almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for those with wheat sensitivities.
  • Vegan Chocolate Nut Bars: Substitute eggs with flax eggs, use coconut oil instead of butter, and swap corn syrup with maple syrup for a plant-based version.
  • Walnut Wonder Brownies: Swap pecans with walnuts for a different nutty flavor profile while maintaining the rich, decadent texture.
  • Caramel Pecan Alternative: Drizzle caramel sauce over the brownies instead of mixing it into the batter for an extra layer of sweet indulgence.

Best Ways to Serve Brownies

  • Decadent Dessert Companion: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creamy coolness that balances the rich, warm pecan pie brownie flavor.
  • Party-Perfect Plating: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle melted chocolate on top to create an elegant, restaurant-style presentation that wows guests.
  • Coffee Break Delight: Pair with a strong espresso or cappuccino to complement the sweet, nutty brownie layers and enhance the dessert's deep chocolate notes.
  • Gifting Goodness: Package individual squares in cute parchment paper or small gift boxes for a homemade treat that's perfect for holiday sharing or potluck contributions.

Storing Pecan Pie Brownies Well

  • Store brownies in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, keeping them fresh and maintaining their delicious texture.
  • Wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months, ensuring a sweet treat is always ready.
  • Keep brownies at room temperature in a covered container for 2-3 days if you prefer a softer, more tender texture.
  • Place a piece of parchment paper between layers when storing to prevent brownies from sticking together and preserve their perfect shape.

FAQs

  • Are the pecans necessary for the recipe?

Yes, pecans are a key ingredient that provides the signature nutty flavor and texture to the pecan pie brownies. If you have nut allergies, you can substitute with other nuts or omit them, but the taste will be different.

  • Can I use dark cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa powder?

Absolutely! Dark cocoa powder will create a richer, more intense chocolate flavor. Just use the same measurement as regular cocoa powder in the recipe.

  • What's the best way to prevent overmixing the brownie batter?

Fold the dry ingredients gently with a spatula just until they are incorporated. Stop mixing as soon as you no longer see streaks of flour. Overmixing can lead to tough, dense brownies.

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Easy Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe

Easy Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 15 reviews

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Chocolate meets nutty perfection in these pecan pie brownies, blending rich fudgy layers with caramelized pecans. Indulgent dessert lovers will discover a simple yet irresistible treat that combines classic brownie decadence with southern pie charm.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (118 ml)
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans (60 g)
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar (150 g)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (60 g)

Supporting Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup brown sugar (50 g)
  • 1/3 cup cocoa powder (30 g)
  • 2 tablespoons corn syrup (30 ml)

Finishing Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon melted butter (15 ml)
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8×8 inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, ensuring excess paper hangs over the edges for easy removal.
  2. Melt butter in a microwave-safe bowl, then whisk in granulated sugar until smooth. Incorporate eggs individually, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract until well blended.
  3. Sift cocoa powder into the wet mixture, then gently fold in flour and salt. Mix until ingredients are just combined, avoiding overmixing. Spread the brownie batter uniformly across the prepared pan.
  4. Create the pecan pie layer by combining chopped pecans, brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and salt in a separate bowl. Stir until ingredients are fully integrated.
  5. Distribute spoonfuls of the pecan pie mixture over the brownie base. Use a knife to delicately swirl the two layers, creating a marbled pattern without thoroughly mixing them together.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the center sets and a toothpick inserted reveals a few moist crumbs rather than wet batter.
  7. Remove from oven and allow brownies to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, lift out using parchment paper overhang and slice into squares for serving.

Notes

  • Prevent dry brownies by not overbaking, checking at 25 minutes and removing when a few moist crumbs remain on the toothpick.
  • Create gluten-free version by substituting all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free baking blend for celiac-friendly treat.
  • Enhance pecan flavor by briefly toasting pecans in a dry skillet before adding to the pie layer, which intensifies their nutty richness and adds deeper complexity.
  • Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days, or refrigerate for up to a week to maintain optimal texture and prevent spoilage.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 14 g
  • Sodium: 80 mg
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 40 mg
Lena Martinez

Lena Martinez

Contributing Writer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Southwestern and Latin American cuisines, Vegetarian and plant-based recipe development, Culinary education and community outreach ​

Education

Santa Fe Community College, Santa Fe, NM
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Emphasized Southwestern cuisine and sustainable cooking practices


Lena grew up surrounded by the colors, spices, and traditions of the Southwest – flavors that sparked her love for bold, honest cooking. After earning her Culinary Arts certificate at Santa Fe Community College, she made it her mission to teach home cooks how to create flavorful, plant-powered meals without the fuss.
Her recipes are packed with vibrant ingredients, simple steps, and the kind of heart that turns a regular meal into something you’ll want to share. Outside the kitchen, Lena spends her time wandering farmers’ markets, trading family recipes, and helping young chefs find their voice through food.

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