Pecan Brownie Pie Recipe | Decadent & Irresistibly Delicious
1. Introduction
If you’re looking for a dessert that combines two of the most beloved treats—brownies and pecan pie—then you’ve found the perfect recipe! Imagine the rich, gooey texture of brownies with the sweet, nutty crunch of pecans, all encased in a buttery, flaky crust. That’s the magic of this Pecan Brownie Pie.
This pie is the perfect indulgence for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner, holiday feast, or just a cozy weekend treat. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also super easy to make. You’ll learn how to create a show-stopping dessert that combines the best elements of two classic desserts, and you can customize it with your favorite flavors. So grab your baking tools, and let’s dive into making this irresistible treat!
2. Ingredients Breakdown
Here’s a rundown of the key ingredients that make this Pecan Brownie Pie so delicious:
- Butter (1/2 cup): The rich, melted butter in the brownie batter gives it that smooth, decadent texture. It also helps to create a beautifully golden crust. You can substitute with margarine if needed.
- Dark Brown Sugar (1 cup): The brown sugar adds moisture to the brownie part of the pie and enhances the flavor with a caramel-like richness. Light brown sugar will work too, but dark brown sugar gives it a deeper flavor.
- Eggs (3 large): Eggs act as the binding agent in the brownie batter, giving it structure and a lovely fluffiness.
- All-Purpose Flour (1/2 cup): This is the base for the brownie batter, giving it that dense yet soft texture. You can swap for gluten-free flour if you prefer a gluten-free version.
- Cocoa Powder (1/4 cup): Unsweetened cocoa powder is what gives this pie its rich chocolatey flavor.
- Baking Powder (1/2 tsp): This helps the brownie batter rise slightly, making it light and fluffy.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Vanilla enhances the flavor and adds depth to the chocolatey notes.
- Pecans (1 cup): Chopped pecans add a satisfying crunch and that distinct nutty flavor. You can lightly toast them before adding for extra flavor if you like. If you prefer, you can substitute walnuts or hazelnuts.
- Pie Crust (1): A pre-made or homemade pie crust serves as the base of the pie. This helps hold everything together and adds the right amount of buttery, flaky texture. A graham cracker crust can be used for a different twist.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk (1/2 cup): This is the secret ingredient that gives the pie its classic pecan pie flavor. It adds sweetness and moisture, balancing out the richness of the brownies.
- Chocolate Chips (1/2 cup): Semi-sweet chocolate chips are mixed into the brownie batter, giving the pie that extra chocolatey bite.
Substitutions & Dietary Preferences:
- You can swap the butter for coconut oil to make the recipe dairy-free.
- For a vegan version, use flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water per egg) and coconut oil.
- If you want to make the pie gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s get started with creating this delicious Pecan Brownie Pie!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pie Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place your pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish. If you’re using a store-bought crust, just follow the instructions for pre-baking, if required.
Step 2: Prepare the Brownie Batter
- In a medium-sized bowl, melt the butter in the microwave or on the stovetop. Let it cool slightly.
- Add the brown sugar to the melted butter and mix until combined.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Stir well to combine.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until a smooth brownie batter forms. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 3: Add the Chocolate Chips and Pecans
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips and chopped pecans into the brownie batter.
Step 4: Add the Filling to the Crust
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure it’s evenly distributed.
Step 5: Prepare the Pecan Pie Layer
- In a separate bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk and any remaining pecans. Pour this mixture on top of the brownie batter, spreading it evenly over the surface.
Step 6: Bake the Pie
- Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes. Check the pie around the 35-minute mark; if the crust edges are browning too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
- The pie is done when the center is set, but slightly fudgy. The top will be golden and slightly cracked.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
- Let the Pecan Brownie Pie cool for about 1 hour on a wire rack. This allows the layers to set properly.
- Slice and serve at room temperature or chilled with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
4. Tips and Variations
- For Extra Gooeyness: If you like your brownies extra gooey, reduce the baking time by 5 minutes, checking the center for a fudgy consistency.
- Toasted Pecans: Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes to bring out their natural oils and deepen their flavor.
- Make it Vegan: Use a vegan butter substitute and flax eggs for a fully plant-based dessert.
- For an Extra Chocolate Kick: Add a handful of chocolate chunks or extra chocolate chips into the batter for an added indulgent experience.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the pie suitable for gluten-free diets.
5. Serving Suggestions
- Sides: Serve your Pecan Brownie Pie with a side of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for that extra indulgence. A fresh fruit salad would also complement the richness of the pie nicely.
- Presentation: For an elegant touch, garnish each slice with extra toasted pecans and a sprig of mint. You can also drizzle a little caramel sauce over the pie for added flavor and flair.
- Pairing Drinks: Enjoy this dessert with a warm coffee, hot chocolate, or sweet dessert wine like port. A glass of milk also pairs perfectly with the chocolatey richness of this pie.
6. Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Storage: Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the pie for up to 2-3 months. Just ensure it’s tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply place the pie in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual slices for about 30-40 seconds until warm.
7. Recipe Notes
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the Pecan Brownie Pie a day in advance. Just refrigerate it overnight and bring it to room temperature before serving.
- Pie Crust: If you prefer a homemade crust, you can make a graham cracker crust for a delicious twist, or go with a shortbread crust for a buttery, crisp base.
- All About the Pecan Layer: The sweetened condensed milk is essential for giving this pie its signature texture and flavor, so don’t skip it!
8. Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
| Calories | 350 |
| Fat | 20g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Sugar | 35g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Sodium | 150mg |
| Cholesterol | 25mg |
| Calcium, Iron | 2%, 8% |
Note: Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
9. Recipe Card Summary
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Servings: 8
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup dark brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Prepare brownie batter with butter, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, cocoa powder, and flour.
- Add chocolate chips and pecans to batter.
- Pour into prepared pie crust and spread evenly.
- Pour sweetened condensed milk and remaining pecans over the batter.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden and set.
- Let cool before serving.
Notes:
- Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
10. Final Thoughts or CONCLUSION
This Pecan Brownie Pie is truly a dessert masterpiece. It combines the decadence of brownies with the nutty goodness of pecans in a perfect pie form. Whether you’re enjoying it with family, friends, or just indulging yourself, this pie will impress everyone with its rich flavor and satisfying texture. Don’t forget to leave a comment below letting us know how it turned out for you—enjoy!