Gooey Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe

If you are a fan of rich, decadent treats that marry the best of two dessert worlds, let me introduce you to the ultimate indulgence: the Gooey Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe. This spectacular dessert combines fudgy, chocolatey brownies with a sticky, buttery pecan pie topping, creating layers of texture and flavor that will blow your mind. Every bite oozes with the perfect balance of sweetness, gooeyness, and crunch, making it an unforgettable crowd-pleaser perfect for any occasion.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Gooey Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe requires surprisingly simple ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building the layers of flavor and texture. From rich butter to crunchy pecans, every component contributes to creating this show-stopping dessert.

• Butter (110 g + 110 g): Provides richness and a smooth, creamy base for both brownie and topping layers.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips (75 g): Adds deep chocolate flavor and melty goodness.
• Unsweetened Dutch cocoa powder (35 g): Intensifies the chocolate taste with a velvety texture.
• Granulated sugar (100 g): Sweetens the brownie and helps with moisture balance.
• Dark brown sugar (150 g + 90 g): Offers caramel notes and moisture to both the brownie and pecan filling.
• Eggs (3 large): Bind all the ingredients together and add structure.
• Vegetable oil (55 g): Keeps the brownies moist and tender.
• Vanilla extract (1 1/2 tsp + 1 tsp): Enhances and rounds out the flavors for both layers.
• All-purpose flour (75 g + 1 tsp): Creates the necessary structure; the small amount in the topping helps thicken it up.
• Cornstarch (1 tbsp): Adds softness to the brownies, making them perfectly fudgy.
• Salt (1/2 tsp + a pinch): Balances sweetness and brightens flavors.
• Light corn syrup (65 g): Brings stickiness to the pecan pie topping and helps it set beautifully.
• Whole pecans (150 g): Provides that iconic crunch and nutty richness essential to pecan pie.

How to Make Gooey Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Begin by setting your conventional oven to 160ºC (325ºF) and line an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) square pan with parchment paper. This prep ensures your brownies won’t stick and slide right out after baking.

Step 2: Create the Brownie Base

Melt and brown the butter gently until it starts to turn golden and smells nutty—this step deepens the flavor. Pour this over your semi-sweet chocolate chips in a large mixing bowl and stir until completely smooth. Stir in the Dutch cocoa powder next, blending it into a luscious, glossy chocolate mix.

Step 3: Sweeten and Whisk

Add both the dark brown sugar and granulated sugar to your chocolate mixture. Use an electric mixer to whisk them together until smooth and well combined, making sure to dissolve any sugar granules for a silky finish.

Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs

Crack in your room temperature eggs and whisk on medium-high speed for about 2 minutes to achieve a light and airy texture, which will make your brownies wonderfully tender.

Step 5: Add Oil and Vanilla

Next, pour in the vegetable oil and vanilla extract, continuing to whisk until the batter is perfectly blended and shiny, creating that glossy brownie sheen.

Step 6: Fold in Dry Ingredients

Sift together the flour, cornstarch, and salt, then gently fold them into the wet mixture using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix here—you want to keep that fudgy softness that makes these brownies irresistible.

Step 7: Bake the Brownie Layer

Pour your brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake for 30 minutes until the surface sets but the center is still slightly gooey—this base is going to support the pecan topping beautifully.

Step 8: Make the Pecan Pie Topping

While the brownie base bakes, roughly chop the pecans and set them aside. In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, combine dark brown sugar, light corn syrup, butter, and vanilla extract. Stir continuously until everything melts and melds into a glossy caramel sauce.

Step 9: Combine Pecan Mix

Remove the saucepan from heat, then stir in the chopped pecans, a teaspoon of flour, and a pinch of salt. This mixture thickens slightly and becomes the gooey, nutty layer topping your brownies.

Step 10: Add the Topping and Finish Baking

Once your brownie layer has baked for 30 minutes, carefully pour the pecan pie filling over it and spread evenly. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes. This melds the two layers into one spectacular, gooey masterpiece.

Step 11: Cool Before Serving

Allow the brownies to cool on a wire rack at room temperature for 30 minutes—then refrigerate for about an hour. This resting time lets the layers set just enough to slice cleanly while retaining that signature gooey texture.

How to Serve Gooey Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe

Garnishes

These brownies are show-stopping on their own, but a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce takes them to the next level. A dusting of powdered sugar also adds a delicate contrast and festive appearance.

Side Dishes

To balance the sweetness, serve your Gooey Pecan Pie Brownies alongside a scoop of smooth vanilla ice cream or rich whipped cream. Fresh berries can add a bright and tangy punch that cuts through the richness delightfully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your brownies in a rustic wooden board for a cozy feel or on pretty dessert plates to impress guests. You can cut them into bite-sized squares for party platters or even layer them in a trifle with whipped cream and nuts for a stunning dessert experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your Gooey Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the refrigerator if you’d like to keep them longer. They stay moist and delicious, just be sure to bring them back to near room temperature before serving.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap individual brownie squares tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil or place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months and thawed overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying the full gooey goodness.

Reheating

Warm your brownies briefly in a microwave for 15-20 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at low temperature for 5-8 minutes to soften and bring back that just-baked delightfulness. Avoid overheating, as it can dry them out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of nuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts or pecan-walnut mixes work wonderfully, giving a similar crunch and flavor profile that complements the sticky topping.

Is it necessary to brown the butter for the brownie base?

Browning butter is optional but highly recommended because it adds a rich, nutty depth that elevates the overall taste of the brownies remarkably.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend, you can enjoy these decadently gooey brownies without gluten worries.

How do I know when the brownies are perfectly baked?

The edges should look set and slightly pulling away from the pan, but the center will still appear a little soft—that signature gooey stage that gives these brownies their magic.

Can I prepare the pecan topping ahead of time?

It’s best to prepare the topping fresh to pour over the brownies, but you can chop the pecans earlier and store them in an airtight container to save time.

Final Thoughts

You truly cannot go wrong with this Gooey Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe—it’s a luscious, comforting dessert that combines two classic favorites into one irresistible creation. Whether for a special celebration or simply a cozy night in, these brownies will bring joy and sweet satisfaction with each bite. I hope you have as much fun making and sharing them as I do enjoying every gooey, nutty crumb!

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