The first cold breeze of November always reminds me of this dessert. There’s something about warm pecans and rich chocolate that feels like a cozy blanket for the soul. These Pecan Pie Brownies bring two favorites together in one gooey, buttery, unforgettable bite. They’re everything you love about Thanksgiving, baked into one pan.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Pecan Pie Brownies
You’ll love these brownies for their rich, chewy texture and that glossy pecan pie topping that melts right into the chocolate layer. They’re easy to make since you start with a simple brownie mix, then pour on a quick homemade pecan filling.
They’re perfect for Thanksgiving, potlucks, or even as a sweet holiday gift. Imagine cutting into these while the kitchen smells like toasted sugar and butter—pure comfort.
What You’ll Need
Brownie Base
- 1 box brownie mix (for a 13×9 inch pan)
- Ingredients listed on the box
Pecan Pie Filling
- 1 cup sugar
- 1½ cups light corn syrup
- 4 large eggs
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecans, roughly chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Pre-Bake the Brownie Layer
Preheat your oven according to your brownie mix instructions. Mix the batter as directed, then pour it into a greased 13×9 inch pan. Bake the brownies for half of the time listed on the box.
Remember, different pans can change how quickly your brownies cook. Metal pans usually bake faster than glass ones.
2. Prepare the Pecan Pie Filling
While the brownies pre-bake, whisk sugar, corn syrup, eggs, butter, and vanilla in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir constantly for 15–20 minutes until the mixture thickens and coats your spoon.
Next, add the chopped pecans and cook for another 2–3 minutes. The filling should look like runny oatmeal—pourable but not thin.
3. Combine and Bake
Remove the brownies from the oven. Pour the warm pecan filling evenly on top. Then, place the pan back into the oven and bake for another 25–30 minutes, or until the center only slightly jiggles.
Let them cool completely before slicing. This step is key if you want clean edges and that perfect layered look.
Expert Tips for Perfect Texture
- Use half the brownie bake time for the first layer. This keeps them fudgy after adding the filling.
- If your filling finishes early, it can rest off heat; it stays smooth and pourable.
- Remember, glass pans may bake slower than metal ones. Adjust by a few minutes if needed.
- Always cool the brownies fully before slicing to keep those neat, bakery-style squares.
How to Store and Serve
Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5.
To reheat, warm a square in the microwave for about 10 seconds for that soft, fresh-out-of-the-oven feel.
They taste amazing with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do pecans taste good in brownies?
Yes, they add a nutty crunch that balances the fudgy chocolate perfectly. The flavor of toasted pecans deepens as they bake into the brownie layer.
What is the filling in a pecan pie made of?
It’s usually a mix of sugar, corn syrup, butter, eggs, and vanilla. Together, they form that signature gooey texture that everyone loves.
What makes brownies fudgy vs cakey?
Fudgy brownies have more fat (like butter or oil) and less flour. This recipe keeps that fudgy texture since the pecan filling adds extra richness.
Is pecan pie healthy to eat?
It’s a treat meant for special occasions. While it’s high in sugar, enjoying it in moderation is part of the holiday joy.
What’s the best nut for brownies?
Pecans are perfect for their buttery, slightly sweet flavor. However, you can try walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different crunch.
Pecan Pie Brownies (Recipe Card)
Print
Pecan Pie Brownies – Irresistibly Gooey Thanksgiving Dessert
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Two holiday icons in one pan. Rich, fudgy brownies topped with glossy, gooey pecan pie filling. Simple to make, perfect for Thanksgiving, and impossible to resist.
Ingredients
Brownie Base 1 box brownie mix (for 13×9 inch pan) Ingredients listed on the box Pecan Pie Filling 1 cup sugar 1½ cups light corn syrup 4 large eggs ¼ cup unsalted butter 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract 2 cups pecans, roughly chopped
Instructions
Preheat oven per box instructions. Grease a 13×9 inch pan. Mix brownie batter as directed. Pour into pan. Bake for half of the time listed on the box. Meanwhile, whisk sugar, corn syrup, eggs, butter, and vanilla in a saucepan over medium high heat. Stir constantly 15 to 20 minutes until thick and glossy. It should coat a spoon. Stir in chopped pecans and cook 2 to 3 minutes. Aim for runny oatmeal consistency. Remove brownies. Pour filling evenly over the top. Return pan to oven. Bake 25 to 30 minutes, until the center slightly jiggles. Cool completely at room temperature. Slice with a hot knife for clean edges.
Notes
Use half of the brownie bake time for the pre bake. Metal pans brown faster than glass. Adjust a few minutes as needed. If the filling finishes early, let it rest off heat. It stays pourable. Cool fully before cutting for tidy squares. Serving idea: top warm squares with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Thanksgiving Desserts
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 325
- Sugar: 42 g
- Sodium: 103 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 51 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 38 mg
More Such Recipes
If you loved these brownies, you might also enjoy these treats:
- Butter pecan cake lovers will adore this gooey brownie twist
- For another nutty dessert, check out these butter pecan cookies
- Try these easy skillet blackberry cobbler treats for a fruity finish
- Indulge in rich triple chocolate cake when you want more chocolate goodness
- This blackberry cheesecake recipe pairs well with decadent brownies
- Discover the perfect peach cake topped with brown sugar frosting
Final Thoughts
These Pecan Pie Brownies are everything you want in a Thanksgiving dessert—sweet, chewy, buttery, and full of comfort. They bring together two classic flavors that never fail to impress.
Bake them for your next holiday table, share them with loved ones, and don’t forget to tag me if you try them out. You can also follow along on Pinterest or join our community on Facebook for more cozy dessert ideas.