If you love the rich, fudgy texture of brownies and the sweet, nutty crunch of pecan pie, then this Brownie Pecan Pie recipe is your dream dessert come true. Combining two beloved classics into one irresistible treat, this dessert boasts a dense, chocolatey brownie base topped with a gooey, caramelized pecan filling.
Perfect for holiday celebrations, dinner parties, or anytime you crave a show-stopping dessert, this pie delivers layers of texture and flavor that will impress every guest.
Ingredients
Makes one 9-inch pie (8 to 10 servings)
For the Brownie Base
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
For the Pecan Pie Topping
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecan halves
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Baking time: 45 to 50 minutes
- Cooling time: 30 minutes
- Total time: Approximately 1 hour 40 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Base
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch pie dish or line with parchment paper.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Stir in sugar until combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Sift together cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually fold into the wet ingredients until smooth.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pie dish, spreading evenly. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is slightly soft. Remove from oven.
Step 2: Prepare the Pecan Pie Topping
- In a large bowl, whisk together corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Stir in pecan halves.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
- Pour the pecan mixture over the partially baked brownie base.
- Return the pie to the oven and bake for an additional 30 to 35 minutes, or until the pecan topping is set and golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve slices at room temperature or slightly warmed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Garnish with whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
- Pair with coffee or a rich dessert wine like tawny port.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 slice, approx. 1/8 pie) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 |
| Protein | 5 grams |
| Total Fat | 28 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 7 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 48 grams |
| Fiber | 3 grams |
| Sugars | 34 grams |
| Sodium | 140 milligrams |
Key Benefits:
- Pecans add healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, and essential minerals like magnesium and zinc.
- Cocoa powder offers antioxidants and deep chocolate flavor without added fat.
- Combining brownie and pecan pie elements creates a complex, layered dessert with varying textures.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh pecans for the best flavor and crunch. Toasting them lightly before adding enhances their aroma.
- Avoid overbaking the brownie base; it should remain slightly soft to support the pecan topping.
- Let the pie cool fully to allow the filling to set for cleaner slices.
- For easier slicing, chill the pie for an hour before serving.
Variations to Try
- Add a tablespoon of espresso powder to the brownie batter to intensify the chocolate flavor.
- Swap half the pecans for chopped walnuts or pecan pieces for textural variety.
- Drizzle melted chocolate or caramel sauce over the finished pie for extra decadence.
- Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the brownie base gluten-free.
This Brownie Pecan Pie recipe brilliantly marries the fudgy decadence of brownies with the sweet, nutty richness of pecan pie. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings something new and exciting to any dessert table.