Brownie Pecan Pie (The Ultimate Two-in-One Dessert)

When you can’t decide between brownies and pecan pie, the only logical solution is to make both—together. Brownie Pecan Pie is the ultimate dessert mashup, combining a rich, fudgy brownie base with a classic gooey pecan pie topping. It’s indulgent, dramatic, and absolutely irresistible.

This dessert brings together two iconic favorites into one show-stopping slice. The brownie layer delivers deep chocolate flavor and dense, chewy texture, while the pecan pie layer adds buttery sweetness, crunchy toasted pecans, and a caramel-like filling that sets beautifully as it bakes.

Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or anytime you want a dessert that truly wows, brownie pecan pie is the kind of recipe people ask for after the first bite.

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Why Brownie Pecan Pie Works So Well

At first glance, brownies and pecan pie might seem like two very different desserts—but they complement each other perfectly.

• Brownies provide a sturdy, chocolatey base
• Pecan pie adds sweetness, crunch, and visual appeal
• The textures contrast without overpowering each other
• Each layer bakes together seamlessly

Instead of competing, the layers enhance one another, creating a dessert that feels intentional rather than over-the-top.

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Flavor and Texture Breakdown

This dessert is all about balance.

The brownie layer is fudgy and rich, not cakey, providing structure so the pecan topping doesn’t sink. The pecan pie layer is glossy and caramelized, with toasted pecans that stay crisp even after cooling. Together, they create a slice that’s decadent without being overly sweet.

Each bite gives you:

• Deep chocolate flavor
• Buttery caramel notes
• Crunchy pecans
• A soft, chewy center

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Ingredients

For the Brownie Layer

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1½ cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Pecan Pie Layer

• 1 cup light corn syrup
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 3 large eggs
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 cups pecan halves

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch pie dish or springform pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk melted butter, sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla until smooth.
3. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition.
4. Fold in flour and salt until just combined.
5. Pour brownie batter into prepared pan and spread evenly.
6. In another bowl, whisk corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
7. Stir in pecans until evenly coated.
8. Gently pour pecan mixture over the brownie layer.
9. Bake for 45–50 minutes, until the center is set but slightly soft.
10. Cool completely before slicing to allow layers to fully set.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Layers

• Do not overbake—the center should jiggle slightly when removed
• Use room-temperature eggs for smoother layers
• Let the pie cool completely for clean slices
• Cover loosely if pecans brown too quickly

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Easy Variations

• Chocolate Chip Boost: Add chocolate chips to the brownie layer
• Bourbon Pecan: Add a splash of bourbon to the pecan mixture
• Espresso Brownie Base: Add instant espresso powder to deepen chocolate flavor
• Salted Finish: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top after baking

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Serving Suggestions

Brownie pecan pie is rich enough to stand alone, but it’s incredible when paired with:

• Vanilla ice cream
• Whipped cream
• Caramel drizzle
• Fresh coffee or espresso

Serve slightly warm for gooey decadence or chilled for clean, bakery-style slices.

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Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Store covered at room temperature for 2 days
• Refrigerate for up to 5 days
• Freeze individual slices for up to 2 months

This dessert actually tastes even better the next day once the flavors meld.

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Why This Dessert Is a Holiday Favorite

Brownie pecan pie feels festive, indulgent, and nostalgic all at once. It combines two desserts that are already staples at holiday tables and transforms them into something new and exciting without losing their comforting roots.

It’s perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any gathering where dessert is meant to be the star.

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Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dessert that stops conversations, earns compliments, and disappears fast, Brownie Pecan Pie is it. Rich, gooey, crunchy, and deeply satisfying, this two-in-one dessert proves that sometimes the best recipes come from refusing to choose just one favorite.