Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stirred the silky cocoa and watched it blend with creamy butter, a wave of nostalgia washed over me. The recipe for Salted Pecan Pie Brownies is more than just dessert; it’s a delightful embrace of my favorite flavors, combining the richness of fudgy brownies with a sweet, salty pecan topping. What’s incredible about this treat is how effortlessly it wows friends and family while keeping prep time short—so you can focus on what matters most: making memories. Plus, these brownies are adaptable, with easy substitutions for gluten-free and dairy-free needs, ensuring everyone can indulge in a slice. Are you ready to elevate your dessert game and impress your guests with this irresistible twist on a classic? Why Are These Brownies So Irresistible? Decadent Flavors: The perfect blend of rich, fudgy chocolate and sweet, crunchy pecans creates a dessert that’s hard to resist. Quick Prep Time: In just a few simple steps, you can whip up these show-stopping brownies and have more time to savor moments with loved ones. Versatile Options: With suggested substitutions for gluten-free and dairy-free diets, everyone can join in on the treat. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Their sweet and salty profile makes them a favorite at gatherings—perfect for impressing guests. Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the brownie batter or pecan topping in advance, giving you flexibility when hosting. For a delightful pairing, consider serving these brownies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce, reminiscent of a Cream Cheese Pie or a rich Peanut Butter Pies. Salted Pecan Pie Brownies Ingredients For the Brownies • All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; can substitute with gluten-free flour. • Salt – Enhances flavor; no substitute needed. • Baking Powder – Leavening agent for texture; don’t omit for best results. • Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Contributes rich chocolate flavor; use Dutch-processed for a milder taste. • Espresso Powder – Intensifies chocolate flavor; can omit or replace with instant coffee granules. • Unsalted Butter – Adds richness; for a dairy-free option, use dairy-free butter substitute. • Vegetable Oil – Keeps brownies moist; can substitute with melted coconut oil. • Granulated Sugar – Sweetness; can substitute with coconut sugar. • Large Eggs – Binds ingredients; no substitutions recommended. • Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor profile; imitation vanilla can be used if necessary. • Light or Dark Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and flavor; can be used interchangeably. For the Pecan Topping • Light Corn Syrup – Sweetens and adds gooey texture; maple syrup or honey can be alternatives. • Chopped Pecans – Offers crunch and nutty flavor; walnuts can be used as a substitute. • Sea Salt Flakes – Provides a salty contrast; use kosher salt if unavailable. Indulge in making these Salted Pecan Pie Brownies and watch as they become the highlight of your dessert spread! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salted Pecan Pie Brownies Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, grease an 8-inch square baking pan with butter or baking spray to ensure your brownies release easily once baked. This step sets the stage for your Salted Pecan Pie Brownies to come out perfectly. Step 2: Whisk Together Dry Ingredients In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, baking powder, unsweetened cocoa powder, and espresso powder. This dry mixture is essential for the structure and richness of your brownies. Aim for a uniform blend, giving a visual cue of a consistent color and texture before moving to the next step. Step 3: Cream the Wet Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and eggs using a hand mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes, or until smooth and fluffy. Add in the vanilla extract, ensuring every bit is thoroughly combined. This creamy mixture is the heart of your lovely brownies. Step 4: Combine the Mixtures Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing on low speed just until combined. Take care not to overmix, as this could affect the fudgy texture of your Salted Pecan Pie Brownies. The batter should be thick and glossy, inviting you to pour it into the prepared baking pan. Step 5: Bake the Brownies Pour the brownie batter into the greased baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges appear set and the center has a slightly underbaked jiggle; this will result in a wonderfully fudgy texture. Step 6: Prepare the Pecan Topping While the brownies are baking, prepare the pecan topping. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine light corn syrup, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, flour, melted butter, egg, and vanilla. Stir until well blended and remove from heat. Gently fold in the chopped pecans, creating a delicious topping that will be irresistibly crunchy. Step 7: Add the Pecan Topping Once the brownie base has baked for 25-30 minutes, carefully pour the pecan mixture over the top, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle sea salt flakes over the topping for that perfect sweet and salty contrast. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, allowing the topping to set. Step 8: Cool and Serve After baking, remove the pan from the oven and let the Salted Pecan Pie Brownies cool completely on a wire rack. This cooling step is essential for achieving clean, neat slices when you cut into these delectable treats. Once cooled, slice into squares and serve to your delighted family and friends! Salted Pecan Pie Brownies Variations Feel free to explore these delightful twists and substitutions that will make your Salted Pecan Pie Brownies even more enjoyable! Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend to cater to gluten sensitivities without losing flavor or texture. Dairy-Free: Replace butter with a dairy-free butter substitute or coconut oil for a completely dairy-free treat that still satisfies. Nut-Free: For a nut-free version, omit the chopped pecans and replace them with sunflower seeds or chocolate chips for texture and taste. Burst of Flavor: Add a splash of orange or almond extract to the brownie batter for an alluring flavor boost that elevates your dessert. Chocolate Ganache Drizzle: Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled brownies for an extravagant chocolate experience, perfect for chocolate lovers. Caramel Surprise: Pour a layer of caramel sauce over the brownies before adding the pecan topping, introducing a sweet surprise in every bite. Extra Crunch: Mix in crispy rice cereal or toffee bits into the brownie batter for an added layer of delightful crunch that kids and adults alike will adore. Why not celebrate life’s little moments with these variations? Enjoy these scrumptious Salted Pecan Pie Brownies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a slice of Cream Cheese Pie for an extravagant dessert experience. Make Ahead Options These Salted Pecan Pie Brownies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge, preventing any baking soda reactions that could alter texture. Additionally, the pecan topping can be made up to 3 days ahead and kept in the refrigerator, ensuring all the flavors meld beautifully. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the chilled batter into the greased pan, add your chilled pecan topping, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have a delicious dessert ready to impress with minimal last-minute effort! How to Store and Freeze Salted Pecan Pie Brownies Fridge: Store brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness while enjoying a fudgy texture. Freezer: For longer storage, individually wrap squares tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months; just thaw at room temperature before serving. Make-Ahead: Prepare the brownie batter 24 hours in advance or make the pecan topping up to 3 days ahead for a convenient baking experience. Reheating: Warm sliced brownies in the microwave for about 15 seconds to enjoy that fresh-baked taste, enhancing the delightful flavors of the Salted Pecan Pie Brownies. What to Serve with Salted Pecan Pie Brownies? Elevate your dessert experience by pairing these luscious brownies with delightful accompaniments that enhance their rich, fudgy goodness. Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream provides a perfect contrast to the warm brownies, making every bite a delightful blend of flavors and temperatures. Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of golden caramel adds an extra layer of sweetness, complementing the salty pecan topping beautifully. This combination will keep everyone reaching for more! Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries offer a fresh, tangy element that cuts through the richness of the brownies, creating a delightful balance. Pairing these together is a treat for the senses. Whipped Cream: A dollop of light and airy whipped cream brings a lush texture that enhances the overall experience, inviting you to savor each bite even more. Espresso or Coffee: The rich flavors of coffee or a shot of espresso enrich the chocolate in the brownies, intensifying their decadent taste and creating a cozy vibe. Chocolate Ganache: For true chocolate lovers, a silky chocolate ganache poured over the top takes these salted pecan pie brownies to the next level, delivering a luscious experience. Nutty Biscotti: Dip crunchy biscotti into your cup of coffee as a side to the brownies, adding a delightful crunch and an extra nutty flavor that will please your palate. Spiced Chai Tea: A cup of warm spiced chai tea offers an aromatic contrast, enhancing the flavor profile of the brownies with its spice and warmth for a comforting dessert experience. Expert Tips for Salted Pecan Pie Brownies Avoid Overmixing: Be gentle when combining the wet and dry ingredients; overmixing leads to cakey brownies instead of fudgy ones. Check for Doneness: Look for set edges and a slightly jiggly center. The brownies will firm up as they cool, ensuring a perfect fudgy texture. Cooling Time Matters: Allow the brownies to cool completely before slicing. This helps achieve cleaner cuts and prevents the topping from falling off. Storing Leftovers: Keep any extra Salted Pecan Pie Brownies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for longer storage. Customizing Toppings: Feel free to swap chopped pecans with walnuts or drizzle some chocolate ganache on top for a delightful twist to this already scrumptious recipe. Salted Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best pecans for my brownies? Absolutely! When selecting pecans, look for ones that are fresh and unbroken, with a rich, earthy aroma. If you notice any dark spots or a rancid smell, it’s best to avoid those. For recipes like Salted Pecan Pie Brownies, chopped pecans should be crunchy, as this enhances the texture and flavor of the topping. What’s the best way to store Salted Pecan Pie Brownies? Store your brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, individual squares can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to indulge again! Can I freeze these brownies after baking? Absolutely! To freeze your Salted Pecan Pie Brownies, cut them into squares after they have cooled completely. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can easily grab a square to enjoy whenever the sweet cravings hit! What if my brownies turn out too cakey? If your brownies come out cakey instead of fudgy, this might be due to overmixing the batter, which incorporates too much air. Next time, gently mix until just combined. Additionally, ensure you’re not baking them for too long; a slightly underbaked center that jiggles gently is key for that desired fudgy texture. Are these brownies suitable for special diets, like gluten-free or dairy-free? Very! You can easily adapt the Salted Pecan Pie Brownies for gluten-free diets by swapping all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. For a dairy-free version, simply replace the butter with a dairy-free butter substitute. These swaps allow everyone to enjoy these delicious brownies! Irresistible Salted Pecan Pie Brownies That Steal the Show Salted Pecan Pie Brownies combine fudgy chocolate with a sweet, salty pecan topping, perfect for impressing guests. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 50 minutes minsCooling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 35 minutes mins Servings: 16 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Brownies1 cup All-Purpose Flour Can substitute with gluten-free flour1/2 teaspoon Salt No substitute needed1/2 teaspoon Baking Powder Don't omit for best results3/4 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder Use Dutch-processed for a milder taste1 teaspoon Espresso Powder Can omit or replace with instant coffee granules1/2 cup Unsalted Butter For a dairy-free option, use dairy-free butter substitute1/4 cup Vegetable Oil Can substitute with melted coconut oil1 cup Granulated Sugar Can substitute with coconut sugar2 large Large Eggs No substitutions recommended1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Imitation vanilla can be used if necessary1/2 cup Light or Dark Brown Sugar Can be used interchangeablyFor the Pecan Topping1/2 cup Light Corn Syrup Maple syrup or honey can be alternatives1 cup Chopped Pecans Walnuts can be used as a substitute1 teaspoon Sea Salt Flakes Use kosher salt if unavailable Equipment 8-inch square baking panMixing bowlshand mixermedium saucepan Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Salted Pecan Pie BrowniesPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch square baking pan.Whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, baking powder, unsweetened cocoa powder, and espresso powder.Cream together the unsalted butter, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and eggs until smooth and fluffy. Add in vanilla extract.Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing on low speed just until combined.Pour the brownie batter into the greased baking pan and bake for 25-30 minutes.Prepare the pecan topping by combining light corn syrup, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, flour, melted butter, egg, and vanilla in a saucepan, then fold in chopped pecans.Pour the pecan mixture over the brownies and sprinkle with sea salt flakes, then return to the oven for an additional 15-20 minutes.Let the brownies cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into squares. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 3gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 180mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 550IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 1.5mg NotesThese brownies are adaptable for gluten-free and dairy-free diets. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge or freeze for longer storage. 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