Name: Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 ounces unsalted butter; 2 cups granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 large egg yolk; 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup cocoa powder; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted); 3/4 cup light brown sugar (firmly packed); 1/4 cup light corn syrup; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 cups chopped pecans; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Print Recipe· 4.4 from 14 reviews

If you love the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies paired with the gooey, nutty charm of pecan pie, then you are going to absolutely adore this Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe. Imagine biting into a dense, chocolatey brownie base topped with a luscious, caramelized pecan pie layer studded with crunchy nuts and melty chocolate chips. It’s an irresistible dessert that invites you to savor every sticky, sweet bite, perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat any day of the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A single layer of rich, dark brown brownie with a slightly shiny, textured top sits in a rectangular metal baking pan lined with crumpled light brown parchment paper. The edges of the parchment paper fold over the pan, creating uneven soft folds and raised corners around the smooth, dense surface of the brownie. The pan is set on a white marbled surface, highlighting the contrast between the deep chocolate color and the light background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe uses simple, classic ingredients that each play a key role in building layers of flavor and texture. From rich cocoa powder that delivers that deep chocolate taste to toasted pecans that add crunch and warmth, every component is essential for achieving that perfect balance between fudgy brownies and gooey pecan topping.

6 ounces unsalted butter: The foundation for a rich, moist brownie texture and a smooth pie topping base.
2 cups granulated sugar: Provides the necessary sweetness and helps create a glossy crust in the brownie layer.
2 large eggs + 1 large egg yolk: Adds structure and moistness for the brownies, as well as richness to the topping.
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with its warm, aromatic notes.
1 cup cocoa powder: Delivers intense chocolate flavor and a deep color to the brownie base.
1 cup all-purpose flour: The backbone that gives the brownies a chewy, tender crumb.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and heightens the chocolate taste in the brownie and topping.
1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps to set the brownie texture just right without being cakey.
1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted): Key to the luscious, sticky pecan pie topping.
3/4 cup light brown sugar (firmly packed): Adds caramel depth and moisture to the topping.
1/4 cup light corn syrup: Ensures the topping gets that classic, glossy pecan pie finish.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings a subtle warmth to the buttery topping.
2 cups chopped pecans: Crunchy, toasty nuts that make the topping unforgettable.
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melty pockets of chocolate that punctuate the topping with extra indulgence.

How to Make Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350 °F and lining a 9×13 metal pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup. In a medium microwave-safe bowl, melt 6 ounces of unsalted butter with 2 cups of granulated sugar in 30 second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. This combination will create a luxuriously glossy batter base that is rich and fudgy.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

To the melted butter and sugar mixture, whisk in 2 whole eggs, 1 egg yolk, 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until fully combined. This addition gives the batter structure and moisture, ensuring your brownies won’t be dry or crumbly.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

Next, stir in 1 cup of cocoa powder for that deep chocolate flavor. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1 tablespoon cornstarch. Gradually incorporate the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined so your brownies stay tender and chewy.

Step 4: Bake the Brownie Base

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Bake for 20 minutes, allowing the base to set without fully cooking through—this ensures the topping can meld beautifully with the brownies later.

Step 5: Make the Pecan Pie Topping

While the brownies are baking, combine 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter, 3/4 cup light brown sugar (firmly packed), 1/4 cup light corn syrup, 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a medium bowl. Stir in 2 cups chopped pecans and 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips for that signature nutty, chocolate-studded topping.

Step 6: Finish Baking with the Topping

Remove the brownies from the oven after 20 minutes and gently pour the pecan pie topping over the warm base. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 25 minutes or until the topping is set and golden. Allow the entire dessert to cool completely in the pan before slicing to keep the layers intact and gooey.

How to Serve Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe

The dessert is a rectangular bar in a metal baking pan lined with brown parchment paper that extends above the edges. The bar has a light golden base layer, topped with a thick layer loaded with dark brown pecan halves and small dark chocolate chips, scattered evenly and mixed well. The topping appears sticky and glossy, with a slight shine that catches the light. The pan sits on a white marbled surface, giving a clean and bright background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra touch of elegance, sprinkle a few toasted pecan halves on top just before serving. A light dusting of powdered sugar over the brownies creates a beautiful contrast and a hint of sweetness. If you’re feeling indulgent, add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to transform this into an irresistible dessert experience.

Side Dishes

These brownies are rich and filling on their own, but pairing them with fresh fruit like raspberries or orange segments can add brightness and cut through the sweetness. A simple cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk serves as a perfect complement, balancing the dessert’s richness and enhancing its chocolate and pecan flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the brownies into small squares and serve them on a wooden board for a rustic feel at gatherings. Alternatively, layer individual brownie pieces with whipped cream and chopped nuts in clear glasses for an elegant parfait-style dessert. You can even dip the edges in dark chocolate and chill for a more sophisticated look and extra chocolate kick.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe pieces keep wonderfully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This storage helps maintain their fudgy texture without drying out. If you prefer, you can refrigerate them to extend freshness up to 5 days, but bring them to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze these brownies for longer storage by wrapping individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze well for up to 3 months. To thaw, leave them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours before enjoying that melty topping and tender brownie base again.

Reheating

To enjoy your brownies warm, pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or place them in a low oven (around 300 °F) for a few minutes. This lets the topping soften and the chocolate chips melt slightly, bringing back that fresh-from-the-oven sensation that makes the Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe so irresistible.

FAQs

Can I use different nuts in this Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe?

Absolutely! While pecans are traditional and offer a classic flavor, walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes if you prefer or have a nut allergy. Just keep in mind that each nut has a different texture and flavor profile, which will slightly change the final taste.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Make sure your cocoa powder and other ingredients are also gluten-free certified to avoid cross-contamination. The texture might be a bit different, but still delicious!

How do I know when the pecan pie topping is fully cooked?

The topping should look set and slightly golden on the edges when done. It will be sticky but no longer liquid in the center. You can give the pan a gentle shake to check that the topping jiggles slightly but holds together overall.

Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance?

You can definitely prepare the brownie batter ahead and keep it in the fridge overnight. It will be a bit thick, so let it come to room temperature before baking. The pecan pie topping is best mixed fresh for optimal texture and flavor.

What’s the best way to cut these brownies without them falling apart?

Make sure the brownies are completely cooled before slicing, ideally chilled for an hour. Use a sharp, hot knife cleaned between each cut to get clean edges and prevent sticking. This helps keep the gooey topping intact with the fudgy base for perfect squares every time.

Final Thoughts

This Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe is truly one of those dessert treasures that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Combining the luscious darkness of brownies with the sweet, nutty beauty of pecan pie topping brings an unforgettable flavor and texture symphony. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll want to make them again and again for all your special occasions or just because you deserve a celebration in every bite.