Pie Brownies are the perfect mix of two classic desserts—rich chocolate brownies and gooey pecan pie. With a fudgy base and sweet, nutty topping, they’re easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Great for holidays, parties, or just when you want something extra special.
Why We Love This Pie Brownies Recipe
There are so many reasons to fall in love with Pie Brownies. For starters, this dessert is a crowd-pleaser with its unique combination of flavors. Chocolate lovers will certainly appreciate the rich brownie base, while pecan pie enthusiasts will find their cravings satisfied with the over-the-top filling. It’s truly a best-of-both-worlds dessert!
Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. Pie Brownies can be dressed up or down, making them suitable for a casual treat at home or an elegant dessert at dinner parties. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top, and you have a showstopper on your hands.
Finally, the process of creating these brownies is surprisingly simple. Even if you’re not an experienced baker, you’ll find these instructions easy to follow. The pleasing scent of chocolate and pecan filling wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly awaiting the final result.
Ingredients for Pie Brownies
To make your own scrumptious Pie Brownies, gather the following ingredients:
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter (170 grams)
- 7 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped or use chips (200 grams)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (200 grams)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (90 grams)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup honey or light corn syrup (108 grams)
- 1/2 cup packed light or dark brown sugar (105 grams)
- 2 large eggs (for filling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly (56 grams)
- 2 cups pecans (225 grams)
- Vanilla ice cream (for serving, optional)
How to Make Pie Brownies
Creating your Pie Brownies is a rewarding process that brings together the best of both chocolate brownies and pecan pie. Follow these simple steps to ensure a perfect result.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepping the oven early ensures the brownies bake evenly.
Prepare your baking dish: Line a deep 9-inch cake pan or round baking dish with greased foil or parchment paper. This will help you easily lift the brownies out after baking.
Melt butter and chocolate: In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the unsalted butter and chopped bittersweet chocolate. Stir frequently until melted and smooth.
Incorporate sugar: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the granulated sugar until well combined.
Add eggs and vanilla: Mix in the three large eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, stir in the teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Combine flour and spices: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the chocolate mix, stirring until no flour streaks remain visible.
Bake the brownie base: Spread the brownie batter evenly into the lined pan. Bake in your preheated oven for about 20 minutes.
Prepare the pecan filling: While your brownies are baking, gather the ingredients for your pecan pie filling. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the honey (or light corn syrup), brown sugar, two large eggs, and a teaspoon of vanilla extract. Slowly drizzle in the melted butter, mixing continuously until combined. Stir in the pecans.
Layer the filling: Once the initial baking time is over, pull the brownie pan from the oven. Spoon the pecan mixture evenly over the baked brownies, making sure it covers the top.
Return to the oven: Bake the layered dessert for an additional 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the center jiggles slightly, indicating a perfect set.
Cool and slice: Allow the brownies to cool completely for at least 2 hours to set. Once cooled, slice them into squares or bars.
How to Serve Pie Brownies
Serving your Pie Brownies is one of the best parts! You can enjoy them warm straight from the pan or allow them to cool and serve at room temperature. To elevate this delightful dessert, consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of each slice. The coolness of the ice cream pairs wonderfully with the warm, gooey toppings, creating a delightful contrast.
For an extra touch, you might want to drizzle some chocolate sauce or caramel over the brownies. A sprinkle of sea salt can also enhance the flavors, balancing the sweetness with a touch of saltiness.
Pie Brownies are just as delicious served at casual gatherings as they are at fancy dinner parties, so don’t hesitate to whip them up for any occasion!
Expert Tips: Pie Brownies
To ensure your Pie Brownies turn out perfectly, here are some expert tips to keep in mind:
- Use quality chocolate: The type of chocolate you use can significantly affect the flavor. Opt for high-quality bittersweet chocolate for the best results.
- Measure accurately: Baking is really about precision. Be sure to measure your ingredients carefully for consistent results.
- Don’t overmix: When combining the dry ingredients with the chocolate mixture, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tougher brownies.
- Check doneness: Every oven is different, so your baking times may vary. Start checking the brownies a few minutes before the suggested baking time to prevent overcooking.
- Let it cool: Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting into them. This will help them set properly and make slicing easier.
How to Store Pie Brownies
If you find yourself with leftovers—or if you’re preparing a batch in advance—here’s how to store your Pie Brownies.
Room temperature: You can store your pie brownies at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Refrigeration: For longer storage, feel free to refrigerate your brownies; they’ll last up to a week.
Variations of Pie Brownies
While the classic version of Pie Brownies is undeniably delicious, there are several fun variations you’d love to try. Here are a few ideas to inspire your creativity:
- Nut changes: Instead of pecans, experiment with other nuts like walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts, depending on your taste preference.
- Chocolate variations: Play around with different types of chocolate, such as milk chocolate or white chocolate, for diverse flavor profiles.
- Add-ins: Consider incorporating mini chocolate chips or caramel bits into the brownie mixture for an extra sweet surprise.
- Fruity flavor: Enhance the flavor of your pies by folding in some chopped fruit like cherries or blueberries before baking.
- Spiced version: To change up the flavor profile, try adding a teaspoon of pumpkin spice or nutmeg along with cinnamon for a warm, spiced finish.
FAQs about Pie Brownies
What are Pie Brownies?
Pie Brownies are a delectable dessert that combines a rich chocolate brownie base with a gooey pecan pie layer on top. This fusion creates a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
Can I use different nuts for my Pie Brownies?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional, feel free to use walnuts, hazelnuts, or any nut you prefer.
How can I make my Pie Brownies gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Pie Brownies, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the baking ingredients you choose are certified gluten-free as well.
Is it necessary to cool the brownies before slicing?
Yes, allowing your Pie Brownies to cool for at least 2 hours is important. This lets them set properly and makes slicing much easier.
Pie Brownies
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter (170 grams)
- 7 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped or chips (200 grams)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (200 grams)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (90 grams)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Pecan Pie Filling
- 1/3 cup honey or light corn syrup (108 grams)
- 1/2 cup packed light or dark brown sugar (105 grams)
- 2 large eggs (for filling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly (56 grams)
- 2 cups pecans (225 grams)
Optional Serving
- 1 scoop vanilla ice cream (for serving, optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a deep 9-inch cake pan or round baking dish with greased foil or parchment paper.
Making the Brownie Base
- In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the unsalted butter and chopped bittersweet chocolate. Stir until melted and smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in the granulated sugar until well combined.
- Mix in the three large eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the chocolate mix, stirring until no flour streaks remain.
- Spread the brownie batter evenly into the lined pan. Bake for about 20 minutes.
Preparing the Pecan Filling
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the honey (or light corn syrup), brown sugar, two large eggs, and a teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Slowly drizzle in the melted butter, mixing continuously until combined. Stir in the pecans.
- Once the brownie base is baked for 20 minutes, spoon the pecan mixture evenly over the baked brownies.
Final Baking
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 30-35 minutes, until the center jiggles slightly.
- Allow to cool completely for at least 2 hours before slicing.