Irresistible Pecan Pie Brownies: The Easiest Recipe for a Fudgy, Flavorful Dessert (Box Mix Friendly!)
Prepare to fall in love with these Pecan Pie Brownies, a dessert that masterfully combines the rich, fudgy goodness of classic brownies with the sweet, nutty allure of traditional pecan pie. This innovative recipe offers a delightful twist on two beloved American desserts, creating a truly unforgettable treat perfect for any occasion, especially holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas. What makes this recipe even better? It starts with a simple box brownie mix, making it incredibly accessible and wonderfully easy for home bakers of all skill levels to achieve a gourmet-tasting result.
Why These Pecan Pie Brownies Are a Must-Try
Imagine your favorite fudgy brownie, but instead of a plain top, it’s crowned with a luscious, buttery, and sweet pecan pie filling. That’s precisely what these pecan pie brownies deliver. This recipe stands out because it cleverly combines the best elements of both desserts without any fuss. Starting with a readily available brownie mix ensures the base is perfectly consistent and saves you valuable time in the kitchen. On top of this delectable foundation, a homemade pecan pie topping is crafted with simple ingredients, creating a gooey, rich layer that perfectly complements the chocolatey brownie.
The beauty of this dessert lies in its harmonious contrast. The intense chocolate flavor and dense, moist texture of the brownie layer provide the ideal counterpoint to the crunchy, caramelized pecans and the sweet, syrupy filling. Even if you’re not typically a pecan pie enthusiast, this fusion might just convert you! The richness of the brownie balances the sweetness of the pecan topping, resulting in a dessert that is incredibly satisfying and never overwhelming. For an extra touch of indulgence, a drizzle of warm caramel and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt elevate these treats to an extraordinary level, adding layers of sweet, savory, and textural complexity that will have everyone asking for more. The hardest part, truly, is waiting for them to cool completely before diving in!
Key Ingredients for Your Pecan Pie Brownies
To whip up these incredible pecan pie brownies, you’ll need a combination of pantry staples and a good quality brownie mix. The printable version with exact measurements and detailed instructions can be found in the recipe card at the end of this post.
Ingredient Spotlight & Smart Substitutions
- BROWNIES: We highly recommend using a high-quality brownie mix for convenience and consistent results. For this recipe, an 18-ounce box of brownie mix is crucial. Brands like Duncan Hines Dark Chocolate Fudge Brownie Mix work wonderfully, providing a dense, rich, and fudgy base. The 18-ounce size is important because it stands up better to the second bake cycle with the pecan topping, preventing the brownies from drying out. If you only have a 16 or 17-ounce mix, you might find the final brownies a bit drier. If you prefer a completely homemade approach, feel free to use your favorite fudge brownie recipe. Just ensure it’s a sturdy, fudgy recipe that can support the topping.
- PECANS: Use fresh, good quality pecan halves. You’ll roughly chop them for the topping to ensure a good distribution of nutty flavor and texture in every bite. While halves are recommended, pre-chopped pecans can work too, but ensure they aren’t too finely ground.
- UNSALTED BUTTER: Melted unsalted butter is key for the rich, smooth texture of the pecan topping. If you only have salted butter, you can use it but omit the added salt in the pecan mixture to avoid over-salting.
- BROWN SUGAR: Both light or dark brown sugar will work. Dark brown sugar will impart a slightly deeper molasses flavor and a richer color to the topping, while light brown sugar offers a milder sweetness. Choose based on your preference.
- CORN SYRUP & HONEY: These ingredients are essential for creating the classic gooey, syrupy texture of pecan pie filling. They also help prevent the sugar from crystallizing, ensuring a smooth, glossy finish. Light corn syrup is generally preferred. Maple syrup could be an interesting substitute for some of the honey for a different flavor profile, but may alter the texture slightly.
- HEAVY WHIPPING CREAM: Adds richness and creaminess to the pecan filling, contributing to its luxurious mouthfeel. Full-fat coconut cream could be a dairy-free alternative, though it will subtly alter the flavor.
- SALT: A touch of salt in the pecan topping balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors. Don’t skip it!
- FLAKY SEA SALT (Optional): A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of the finished brownies provides a gourmet touch, adding a delightful crunch and a contrasting savory note that makes the sweet caramel and chocolate pop.
- CARAMEL SAUCE (Optional): Store-bought caramel sauce is a fantastic, easy addition for drizzling over the cooled brownies. It enhances the “pie” feel and adds another layer of decadent sweetness. You can also make your own homemade caramel if you’re feeling ambitious!
Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Pecan Pie Brownies
These step-by-step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe. For a convenient printable version of this recipe, complete with precise measurements and instructions, simply Jump to Recipe at the bottom of this post.
- Prepare Your Pan and Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (176°C). This ensures your brownies bake evenly from the start. Grease a 9×9-inch metal baking pan, then line it with parchment paper. Leave an overhang of parchment on all four sides; these “handles” will make it incredibly easy to lift the entire slab of brownies out of the pan once cooled, making cutting much simpler.
- Bake the Brownie Base: Prepare the brownie batter according to the specific instructions provided on the back of your 18-ounce box mix. Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for the recommended time. Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely to room temperature. This is a critical step, as a cool base is necessary before adding the pecan topping.
- Prepare the Pecan Topping: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the roughly chopped pecans, melted unsalted butter, rich brown sugar, light corn syrup, golden honey, decadent heavy cream, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until all ingredients are well incorporated and the pecans are thoroughly coated in the sweet, buttery mixture.
- Add the Topping: Carefully spoon the prepared pecan mixture over the cooled brownie layer. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to gently spread and evenly distribute the topping. Make sure the pecans extend all the way to the corners and outer edges of the brownie to ensure every piece gets a generous amount of that delicious pie flavor.
- Second Bake: Return the baking pan with the topped brownies to the preheated oven. Bake for an additional 20 minutes. This second bake allows the pecan topping to set and caramelize beautifully, infusing the top layer of the brownie with its rich flavors.
- Cool and Chill: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool completely to room temperature. After cooling, transfer the pan to the refrigerator and allow the brownies to chill for at least 1 hour. Chilling is key for achieving clean cuts and firming up the gooey topping. For the best results, aim for 2-3 hours of chilling.
- Slice and Serve: Once thoroughly chilled, gently lift the entire slab of brownies from the pan using the parchment paper handles and place it on a sturdy cutting board. Using a sharp chef’s knife, cut the brownies into 16 even portions. For an extra flourish, sprinkle with flaky sea salt and drizzle with caramel sauce just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Perfect Pecan Pie Brownies
While a 9×9-inch baking pan is recommended for the ideal brownie-to-topping ratio, you can absolutely use an 8×8-inch pan. Be aware that using a smaller pan will result in thicker brownies and a thicker pecan topping. When using an 8×8 pan, refer to the back of your brownie mix box for the appropriate initial bake time for the brownie layer. The second bake with the pecan topping should remain at 20 minutes.
It’s a common concern, but surprisingly, it’s quite the opposite with this recipe! The rich ingredients in the pecan topping – namely the melted butter, honey, and corn syrup – seep down into the top layer of the brownie during the second bake. This process actually infuses moisture into the brownie, resulting in an incredibly soft, gooey, and even more decadent texture. However, this is largely dependent on using an 18-ounce brownie mix. Smaller mixes (16 or 17 ounces) might not have the same moisture content or structural integrity, which could potentially lead to a drier result after the double bake.
To maintain their freshness and fudgy texture, store any leftover pecan pie brownies in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage or if your kitchen is particularly warm, you can also store them in the refrigerator, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Absolutely! These brownies are an excellent make-ahead dessert, perfect for busy holiday preparations or entertaining. In fact, they often develop a deeper, more complex flavor profile the day after they’re made, as the flavors have more time to meld. You can prepare, bake, and store the brownies a day or two in advance. Just ensure they are fully cooled before storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. This allows you to focus on other tasks and still present a fresh, delicious dessert.
Yes, these brownies freeze beautifully! Once completely cooled, cut them into individual portions. Wrap each brownie tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours or warm them gently in the microwave for a few seconds.
For the best presentation and texture, we recommend using pecan halves that you can roughly chop yourself. This allows for a good mix of smaller and larger pieces, providing a satisfying crunch. Pre-chopped pecans are fine if they are not too fine; avoid pecan meal for this recipe.
Serving Suggestions: Elevate Your Pecan Pie Brownies
These pecan pie brownies are absolutely divine enjoyed just as they are, but there are several ways to make them even more special. As mentioned, a generous drizzle of warm caramel sauce and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt truly take them to the next level, offering a wonderful balance of sweet and salty. For a truly indulgent experience, serve them slightly warm with a scoop of premium vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The contrast of the warm brownie and cold ice cream is simply irresistible. They also pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, a glass of milk, or even a spiced cider during the cooler months. These brownies are robust enough to stand alone as a show-stopping dessert, or they can be part of a larger dessert platter at your next holiday gathering.
More Decadent Dessert Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed these pecan pie brownies, be sure to explore more of our delightful recipes that bring comfort and joy to your kitchen:
- Pecan Tassies: Bite-sized pecan pies, perfect for sharing!
- Chocolate Turtles: A classic candy with pecans, caramel, and chocolate.
- Salted Brownie Cookies: All the flavor of a brownie in a convenient cookie form.
- Chocolate Cheesecake Brownies: The ultimate indulgence for chocolate and cheesecake lovers.
- Butterscotch Brownies: A chewy, sweet alternative to chocolate brownies.
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Pecan Pie Brownies
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 18.2 ounce box of brownie mix plus ingredients on back of the box
- 2 cups pecan halves roughly chopped
- 6 Tablespoons unsalted butter melted. 3/4 stick
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 Tablespoons corn syrup
- 2 Tablespoons honey
- 2 Tablespoons heavy whipping cream
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- flakey sea salt
- ½ cup store bought caramel sauce for optional drizzle
Equipment You’ll Need
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9×9 baking pan
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Parchment paper
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Medium-sized bowl
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Whisk or spatula
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Wire rack
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Sharp chef’s knife and cutting board
Before You Begin
- You can use either light or dark brown sugar for the pecan topping, depending on your preferred depth of flavor. Dark brown sugar will give a richer, deeper caramel note.
- It is critical to use an 18-ounce brownie mix for this recipe. Smaller mixes (16 or 17 ounces) may become dry during the double baking process. The extra volume and moisture in an 18-ounce mix help maintain the brownies’ fudginess.
- If you don’t have a 9×9-inch baking pan, an 8×8-inch pan can be used. However, be aware that the brownies (and pecan topping) will be thicker. Adjust the initial brownie bake time according to your box mix instructions for an 8×8 pan, but keep the second bake with the pecan topping at 20 minutes.
- Cooling the brownies completely after the first bake, and chilling them after the second bake, are crucial steps for clean cuts and a stable topping. Patience is key!
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (176°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch metal baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving generous overhangs on all four sides. This ensures easy removal of the baked brownies.
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Prepare and bake the brownie mix according to the package directions for an 18-ounce box. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the brownies to cool completely to room temperature in the pan. This usually takes about 1-2 hours.18.2 ounce box of brownie mix
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While the brownies cool, prepare the pecan topping. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the roughly chopped pecans, melted unsalted butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, honey, heavy cream, and salt. Stir until thoroughly mixed and the pecans are well coated.2 cups pecan halves, 6 Tablespoons unsalted butter, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 Tablespoons corn syrup, 2 Tablespoons honey, 2 Tablespoons heavy whipping cream, 1/4 teaspoon salt
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Evenly spoon the pecan mixture over the cooled brownie layer in the baking pan. Distribute the pecans and the gooey filling all the way to the edges and corners for a beautiful, consistent topping.
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Return the pan to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes. The topping should be bubbly and lightly caramelized.
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Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Once at room temperature, transfer the pan to the refrigerator to chill for at least 1 hour.
TIP: Chilling for 2-3 hours or even overnight is highly recommended. This allows the pecan topping to fully set and makes the brownies much easier to cut into neat, clean squares.
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Once chilled, use the parchment paper overhangs to gently lift the entire brownie slab out of the pan and place it on a cutting board. With a sharp chef’s knife, cut the brownies into 16 even squares. For a final flourish, sprinkle with flaky sea salt and drizzle with your favorite caramel sauce, if desired. Serve and enjoy!
Expert Tips & FAQs
- These brownies, like many baked goods, often taste even better the next day! The flavors deepen and meld beautifully. Consider baking them a day or two in advance for optimal taste, ensuring they are fully cooled and stored in an airtight container.
- Store any leftover Pecan Pie Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer freshness, especially in warmer climates, refrigeration is an option.
- Always use a sharp knife for cutting brownies. For extra clean cuts, wipe the knife blade clean after each slice.
- Feel free to experiment with different brownie mix flavors, such as milk chocolate or white chocolate, for a unique twist.
- If you want to add another layer of flavor, you can lightly toast your pecans before adding them to the topping mixture. This brings out their natural nuttiness even more.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.