Buttery Pecan Pie Brownies

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These Buttery Pecan Pie Brownies are everything I crave when I’m torn between a rich chocolate dessert and a gooey slice of pecan pie. The fudgy brownie base offers a deep cocoa flavor, while the glossy, caramelized pecan topping adds a buttery crunch that makes each bite taste like the best parts of fall and indulgence rolled into one. I find myself baking these on cozy weekends or when I want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

What I love most is how the textures complement each other—the dense, chewy brownie meets the sticky, nutty topping in the most perfect way. It’s like two classic desserts joined forces for something unforgettable. Whether you’re looking for a potluck crowd-pleaser or just need a sweet escape, these brownies are always the right choice.

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Why You’ll Love This Buttery Pecan Pie Brownies

This dessert is the ultimate hybrid for anyone who can’t choose between pie and brownies. You get the best of both worlds: the richness of dark chocolate and the caramelized pecan filling of a southern-style pecan pie. They’re surprisingly easy to make and even easier to devour. Plus, the presentation is stunning enough for any holiday table but low-effort enough for a weeknight treat.

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Can I Use a Boxed Brownie Mix Instead?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time or just want to simplify the process, a boxed brownie mix works great as a base. Just make sure it’s the fudgy kind, not the cakey variety. You’ll still end up with that rich, decadent texture that balances the pecan topping beautifully.

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Options for Substitutions

If you’re out of pecans, walnuts can step in without sacrificing the crunch factor. Maple syrup can be used in place of corn syrup for a slightly deeper flavor in the topping. Want to go gluten-free? Use your favorite gluten-free brownie mix or make your own from scratch with almond flour. For a dairy-free version, swap out butter with vegan butter and ensure your chocolate is dairy-free.

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Ingredients for this Buttery Pecan Pie Brownies

Unsalted Butter – This adds richness and moisture to the brownies and forms the base for the pecan pie topping.

Granulated Sugar – Essential for sweetness in the brownie layer, and helps create that crackly top.

Brown Sugar – Adds depth and a hint of molasses flavor, particularly crucial in the pecan topping.

Large Eggs – These provide structure and help emulsify the batter.

Vanilla Extract – A little goes a long way in enhancing the overall flavor.

All-Purpose Flour – The main dry ingredient that gives the brownies their chewy structure.

Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – For that deep, chocolatey base. Use high-quality cocoa for best results.

Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.

Chopped Pecans – The star of the topping, adding crunch and nutty richness.

Corn Syrup (or Maple Syrup) – Gives the topping its signature sticky, gooey texture.

Heavy Cream – Helps create a luscious, soft caramel texture in the topping.

Chocolate Chips (optional) – For extra fudginess and surprise bursts of chocolate.

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Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. This ensures the brownies don’t stick and come out in perfect squares.

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Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in granulated sugar and cocoa powder until smooth. Let it cool slightly, then whisk in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract. Fold in the flour and salt until just combined. Mix in chocolate chips if using.

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Step 3: Bake the Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, just until the center is set but still a bit fudgy. Do not overbake. Remove from oven and set aside.

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Step 4: Prepare the Pecan Topping

While the brownies bake, combine butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, and heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture is bubbling and thickened (about 3-5 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in chopped pecans and vanilla extract.

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Step 5: Add Topping and Bake Again

Carefully pour the pecan topping over the baked brownie base, spreading evenly. Return to the oven for another 15 minutes, until the topping is bubbly and just starting to set. Let cool completely in the pan to allow the topping to firm up.

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Step 6: Slice and Serve

Once completely cooled, use the parchment overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan. Slice into squares using a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between cuts for neat edges.

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How Long to Prepare the Buttery Pecan Pie Brownies

Prep Time: From start to finish, prepping these brownies takes around 20–25 minutes. That includes making the brownie batter and pecan topping. If you’re quick in the kitchen, you might even shave off a few minutes.

Bake Time: The total bake time is about 35–40 minutes—25 minutes for the brownie layer, then an additional 10–15 minutes after adding the pecan topping. Cooling time is crucial and takes another 1–2 hours for clean slicing.

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Tips for Perfect Buttery Pecan Pie Brownies

• Use room temperature eggs to ensure the batter mixes evenly and creates a smooth texture.
• Don’t overmix the brownie batter—stir just until the flour disappears to keep them fudgy.
• Toast the pecans lightly before adding to the topping for even more depth of flavor.
• Chill before cutting to get cleaner slices and help the topping set properly.
• Line the pan with parchment for easy lifting and zero sticking.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overbaking the brownie layer can make it dry—pull it out when the center is just barely set.
• Skipping the cooling time can result in messy, runny slices.
• Using cold eggs or butter may cause the batter to seize or separate.
• Pouring topping on while brownies are too hot can cause it to soak in and make the base soggy.
• Forgetting to stir the topping constantly while cooking can lead to burnt sugar or uneven texture.

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What to Serve With Buttery Pecan Pie Brownies?

1. Vanilla Ice Cream

The cool creaminess pairs perfectly with the warm, gooey richness of the brownies.

2. Whipped Cream

A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream can lighten each bite and balance the intensity.

3. Fresh Berries

Strawberries or raspberries add a tart contrast that brightens the dessert.

4. Coffee or Espresso

The bitterness of coffee enhances the chocolate and caramel notes beautifully.

5. Salted Caramel Drizzle

Drizzle a little extra over each square for even more indulgence.

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Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Keep them in a cool place away from direct sunlight.

Refrigerator: If you want to extend freshness, refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 5 days. Allow them to come to room temperature or microwave briefly before serving.

Freezing: These brownies freeze beautifully. Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds to enjoy.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (1 brownie, based on 16 servings):

• Calories: ~330
• Total Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Sodium: 90mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 26g
• Protein: 3g

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the brownies are ready to remove from the oven?

Check if the edges are set and the center looks slightly underdone but not jiggly. A toothpick should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but use a larger pan (like a half-sheet) and adjust baking time slightly—expect up to 10 minutes longer in each baking stage.

What kind of cocoa powder works best?

Use unsweetened Dutch-process cocoa powder for a deeper, smoother chocolate flavor.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. Check that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Are these brownies very sweet?

Yes, they are indulgent! You can reduce the sugar slightly in the brownie layer if you prefer a less sweet version.

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Conclusion

Buttery Pecan Pie Brownies are the ultimate treat when you want both decadence and comfort in a single bite. Rich, fudgy, and crowned with a caramelized pecan topping, they’re an instant classic that suits holidays, special occasions, or a cozy weekend at home. With flexible substitutions and easy steps, anyone can whip up a batch that wows. Once you taste them, they might just become your new favorite dessert bar.

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