If you’re on the lookout for a dessert that marries the fudgy delight of brownies with the rich, nutty crunch of pecan pie, you’ve just hit the jackpot. This Brownie Pecan Pie Recipe combines two all-time favorites into one heavenly treat that’s perfect for gatherings, holidays, or simply surprising your loved ones with something extraordinary. Each slice offers the dense, chewy texture of a brownie base topped with a luscious, sweet pecan pie layer, making it a standout dessert that’s as impressive as it is irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Brownie Pecan Pie Recipe is that it uses straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create a complex flavor profile. Every item plays a crucial role: the brownie mix forms the perfect chewy base, pecans add crunch and a toasty flavor, and the sweet syrup mixture brings that classic pie filling richness that ties everything together.
- 1 box brownie mix: Your foundation for a fudgy and moist base—choose your favorite brand for best results.
- 1 unbaked pie crust: Adds a flaky, buttery edge to the dessert, providing structure and a classic pie feel.
- 1 cup chopped pecans: For that essential crunch and the signature nutty flavor that elevates the pie topping.
- 1/2 cup corn syrup: Sweetens the filling while helping it set perfectly with a glossy finish.
- 1/2 cup sugar: Balances sweetness and helps create a caramelized consistency in the filling.
- 2 eggs: Binds the filling together and adds richness.
- 1/4 cup butter, melted: Adds depth and smoothness to the syrupy topping, making it melt-in-your-mouth good.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Brings warmth and enhances all the flavors in the filling.
How to Make Brownie Pecan Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust and Brownie Base
Start by placing your unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish, gently pressing it into the edges to avoid any air pockets. Then, spread the prepared brownie mix evenly over the crust. This brownie layer will serve as the rich, fudgy base for your pie, so make sure it’s smooth and covers the bottom entirely.
Step 2: Mix the Pecan Pie Filling
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This silky filling is the heart of what makes this pie unforgettable, delivering that classic pecan pie sweetness and texture.
Step 3: Add Pecans and Pour Filling
Fold the chopped pecans into your syrupy mixture, ensuring every nut is coated with that delicious custard. Carefully pour this filling over the brownie layer in the pie crust, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface. The pecans will toast beautifully during baking, adding that iconic crunch.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the pie for about 50 to 60 minutes. The edges should be golden and the center should be mostly set but still have a slight jiggle. Keep an eye on it during the last 10 minutes to avoid over-baking, which can dry out the filling.
Step 5: Cool and Set
Once removed from the oven, let your Brownie Pecan Pie Recipe cool completely at room temperature. This step allows the filling to firm up perfectly, so when you slice it, you get clean, luscious portions every time. If you can wait, chilling it for a few hours boosts the flavors even more.
How to Serve Brownie Pecan Pie Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation, sprinkle a few extra pecan halves on top just before serving or add a light dusting of powdered sugar for a festive touch. A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully, balancing the richness with cool creaminess.
Side Dishes
This dessert shines on its own but also pairs excellently with fresh berries or a vibrant fruit salad, which adds brightness and a refreshing counterpoint. For coffee lovers, a strong cup of black coffee or a rich espresso complements the chocolate and nutty flavors wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve slices in mini tart pans or even as brownie-sized squares in a shallow baking dish. You can also drizzle melted chocolate or caramel sauce over the top for extra indulgence and an eye-catching finish that will impress any guest.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover Brownie Pecan Pie Recipe covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the fridge. It should stay fresh for up to 4 days, allowing the flavors to meld even further while maintaining that perfect texture.
Freezing
If you want to make this dessert well ahead of time, it freezes beautifully. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, then store it for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for the best texture and taste.
Reheating
To enjoy the pie warm, reheat slices gently in a microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or in a low oven (300°F) wrapped loosely in foil for about 10 minutes. This brings back that fresh-baked aroma and softens the brownie layer just right without drying it out.
FAQs
Can I use homemade brownie batter instead of boxed mix?
Absolutely! Homemade brownie batter will deliver an even more personalized touch, and you can adjust the fudginess to your liking. Just make sure the batter isn’t too runny so it sets well under the pie filling.
Do I have to use corn syrup in the filling?
Corn syrup helps achieve that glossy, chewy texture typical of pecan pie, but you can substitute with an equal amount of maple syrup or honey for a natural sweetness, though the texture will change slightly.
Is it necessary to bake the pie for a full hour?
The bake time ensures that both the brownie base and pecan filling cook properly. Check at 50 minutes by gently shaking the pan—the filling should be just set, with a slight jiggle in the center for perfect texture.
Can I use a graham cracker crust instead of pie crust?
Definitely! A graham cracker crust adds a lovely sweetness and crunch that complements the brownie and pecan layers, giving the pie a slightly different but equally delicious twist.
How do I prevent the pie crust edges from burning?
To protect the crust, cover the edges with foil or a pie shield during the last 15–20 minutes of baking. This keeps the crust from over-browning while the filling finishes cooking.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Brownie Pecan Pie Recipe, it’s going to become your new go-to dessert for celebrations or whenever you want to wow your friends with something uniquely delicious. The combination of fudgy brownie and classic pecan pie flavors offers a perfect balance of textures and sweetness that’s sure to bring smiles and requests for seconds. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to bake up a truly memorable treat that will warm hearts and satisfy every sweet tooth!
Print
Brownie Pecan Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in this decadent Brownie Pecan Pie that combines the rich, fudgy texture of brownies with the classic nutty sweetness of a pecan pie. Featuring a buttery pie crust filled with a gooey brownie batter layered under a luscious pecan topping, this dessert offers a delightful contrast of chewy and crunchy textures. Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or anytime you crave an irresistible chocolate and nut treat.
Ingredients
Pie Base and Brownie Layer
- 1 box brownie mix
- 1 unbaked pie crust
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Pecan Pie Topping
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup corn syrup
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pie Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the unbaked pie crust into a pie dish, pressing gently to fit the dish evenly. Set aside while preparing the filling.
- Make Brownie Batter: In a medium bowl, prepare the brownie mix according to the package instructions, incorporating the melted butter and vanilla extract to enhance the flavor and texture.
- Pour Brownie Layer: Pour the prepared brownie batter evenly into the pie crust, spreading it gently to cover the bottom fully.
- Prepare Pecan Pie Filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, sugar, and eggs until smooth. Stir in the chopped pecans evenly to distribute them throughout the filling.
- Add Pecan Topping: Carefully pour the pecan pie filling over the brownie layer, ensuring the pecans are well spread out for an even topping.
- Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 50-60 minutes. Bake until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown; a toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean with some moist crumbs.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack to let the layers set before slicing. Serve at room temperature or slightly warmed for the best taste experience.
Notes
- You can substitute corn syrup with maple syrup or honey for a different sweetness profile.
- For extra crunch, toast the pecans lightly before mixing.
- Let the pie cool fully to ensure clean slices and better flavor development.
- Store leftover pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- This recipe can be doubled for a larger gathering, using two pie crusts and mixing accordingly.
