There’s something truly indulgent about biting into a rich, fudgy brownie that instantly melts in your mouth. When I experimented with combining classic bourbon pecan pie flavors into a brownie, magic happened. The result? Gooey Bourbon Pecan Pie Brownies that deliver the best of both worlds—a decadent chocolate dessert with the sweet, nutty crunch of pecans and a hint of bourbon warmth.
Picture this: the aroma of baking brownies wafting through your kitchen, drawing everyone in with their irresistible scent. The moment you cut into these brownies, the glossy topping glistens, revealing a soft texture that begs for a scoop of vanilla ice cream. These brownies are perfect for cozy gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply to brighten a tired weekday evening.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or just looking to impress a loved one with an easy yet gourmet treat, these brownies will quickly become a cherished favorite. Let’s dive into this recipe and whip up a delicious batch that will have everyone reaching for seconds!
Why are Gooey Bourbon Pecan Pie Brownies essential?
Irresistible blend of chocolate and pecan pie: The combination of fudgy chocolate brownies topped with a nutty pecan layer creates a dessert that’s both satisfying and indulgent.
Unique twist: A splash of bourbon elevates this classic treat, adding warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
Quick prep: In just 50 minutes, you can go from kitchen to table, impressing friends and family without a fuss.
Crowd-pleasing appeal: Perfect for gatherings, these brownies can turn any occasion into a celebration.
Easily adaptable: Feel free to swap the bourbon or nuts to fit your preferences and dietary needs!
These Gooey Bourbon Pecan Pie Brownies are not just a dessert; they’re an experience that brings joy to your kitchen and smiles to your loved ones.
Gooey Bourbon Pecan Pie Brownies Ingredients
For the Brownie Base
- Dark brown sugar – adds a rich, caramel flavor that enhances the chocolate.
- Granulated sugar – helps achieve that perfect sweet balance.
- Large eggs – bind the ingredients and create a moist texture.
- Vanilla extract – rounds out the sweetness with a warm aroma.
- Unsalted butter – provides richness; make sure it’s melted for easy mixing.
- Dark chocolate chips – the star of the show, giving the brownies their fudgy goodness.
- Bourbon – the secret ingredient for that delightful depth of flavor.
- All-purpose flour – essential for structure; don’t over mix to keep it chewy.
- Dutch cocoa powder – intensifies the chocolate flavor, making every bite heavenly.
- Salt – balances sweetness and enhances all flavors.
For the Pecan Topping
- Granulated sugar – sweetens the pecan layer; you can substitute with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
- Light brown sugar – adds moisture and caramel notes.
- All-purpose flour – acts as a thickener in the pecan filling.
- Honey, agave, or light corn syrup – keeps everything glued together and adds sweetness.
- Large egg – binds the pecan mixture and gives it a custardy texture.
- Unsalted butter (softened) – ensures a smooth filling for the topping.
- Vanilla extract – pairs beautifully with the pecans for an aromatic touch.
- Chopped pecans – the star ingredient that creates the signature pecan pie flavor.
For the Finish
- Flaky Maldon sea salt – adds a delightful crunch and enhances all the sweet flavors.
These Gooey Bourbon Pecan Pie Brownies are sure to become a hit in your home, combining rich flavors and a satisfying texture that everyone will adore!
How to Make Gooey Bourbon Pecan Pie Brownies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line an 8×8 baking pan with parchment paper. This step ensures your brownies come out cleanly and allows for even baking.
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Whisk together in a large mixing bowl the dark brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes. This creates a lovely foundation for your brownies.
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Melt the butter and dark chocolate together in a microwave or on the stovetop until smooth. Once melted, slowly pour this mixture into the egg and sugar blend while the mixer is running on low, and then whisk in the bourbon.
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Fold the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt into the chocolate mixture. Ensure everything is incorporated without overmixing, and then pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
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Bake the brownies for 25-30 minutes. They should be set around the edges but slightly moist in the center; a toothpick should come out with a few crumbs for the perfect fudginess.
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Combine the granulated and brown sugars, flour, honey, whisked egg, and vanilla in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly for about 5 minutes, until the sugar dissolves. Then mix in the chopped pecans and softened butter until combined.
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Layer the pecan topping over the brownie base when the baking time is up, spreading it evenly. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until set.
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Cool the brownies completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, carefully remove them from the pan and chill in the freezer for 15-20 minutes for cleaner cuts, then slice into 16 squares.
Optional: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Gooey Bourbon Pecan Pie Brownies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the brownie base up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the ingredients and store the batter in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pecan topping can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days. To maintain the quality, ensure everything is tightly sealed to prevent drying out or absorption of other odors. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the chilled brownie batter into the prepared pan, add the pecan topping, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy freshly baked brownies with minimal fuss on a busy day!
What to Serve with Gooey Bourbon Pecan Pie Brownies?
Elevate your dessert experience with delightful accompaniments that perfectly balance the rich, chocolaty goodness of these brownies.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cool texture adds a refreshing contrast to the warm, fudgy brownies, making each bite a heavenly experience.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel over the brownies for an extra touch of decadence. The sweet, sticky flavor complements the bourbon and pecans beautifully.
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Coffee: A steaming cup of coffee rounds out the dessert perfectly, enhancing the rich chocolate notes while providing a comforting warm sip.
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Fresh Berries: A side of tart raspberries or strawberries adds brightness and a hint of acidity, balancing the sweetness of the brownies wonderfully.
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Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, dolloping fresh whipped cream on your brownies creates a delightful contrast that enhances their richness.
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Chocolate Drizzle: For the true chocolate lover, a drizzle of melted dark chocolate on top elevates the brownie experience and adds an elegant touch.
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Nutty Biscotti: Serve alongside some crunchy, nutty biscotti for a delightful texture contrast that pairs beautifully with the gooey center.
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Sweet Red Wine: A glass of sweet red wine can enhance the flavors of the bourbon and pecans, creating a truly indulgent dessert experience.
Each pairing brings a unique element to your dessert table, ensuring that your Gooey Bourbon Pecan Pie Brownies shine even brighter alongside them!
Gooey Bourbon Pecan Pie Brownies Variations
Feel free to play with this recipe and make it your own by exploring these delightful options!
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Nut-Free: Simply omit the pecans and replace with a handful of mini chocolate chips for added sweetness and texture.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking blend, and enjoy the same fudgy goodness without worry!
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Bourbon-Free: Swap bourbon for vanilla extract or brewed coffee to maintain flavor depth while keeping it alcohol-free.
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Vegan: Use flax eggs, coconut oil instead of butter, and dairy-free chocolate chips for a plant-based delight everyone can enjoy.
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Extra Gooey: Add an extra 1/4 cup of dark chocolate chips to the batter for a more chocolatey and indulgent experience. Who can resist more chocolate?
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Spice it Up: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of cayenne pepper in the brownie batter for a surprising warmth and depth that dances on the palate.
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Coconut Lovers: Stir in shredded coconut into the pecan topping for a tropical twist that adds a beautiful flavor contrast and texture.
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Salted Caramel: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the brownies before serving for a luxe treat that balances the salty and sweet flavors beautifully.
With these variations, every batch can be unique, ensuring you always have a reason to whip up another round of these fabulous brownies!
How to Store and Freeze Gooey Bourbon Pecan Pie Brownies
Room Temperature: Store your brownies in an airtight container lined with parchment paper at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and tasty.
Fridge: For longer freshness, place the brownies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Freezer: Wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before enjoying their delightful gooeyness again.
Reheating: If you want to warm up your brownies, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or until slightly warmed, and consider topping with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible treat.
Expert Tips for Gooey Bourbon Pecan Pie Brownies
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Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality dark chocolate and fresh eggs to elevate your brownies’ flavor. Great ingredients lead to great desserts!
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Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on your brownies in the oven. A few moist crumbs on the toothpick means they’re perfectly fudgy—overbaking will dry them out.
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Cool Completely: Allow the brownies to cool fully before cutting. This prevents them from crumbling and helps maintain that gooey texture.
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Pecan Layer Precision: When making the pecan topping, stir gently but thoroughly. This ensures an even distribution of pecans and a perfect balance of flavors.
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Chill for Clean Cuts: Consider chilling the brownies in the freezer for a quick 15-20 minutes after baking, making it easier to slice them into clean squares.
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Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to swap out the bourbon for other spirits or omit it entirely for kid-friendly treats—these Gooey Bourbon Pecan Pie Brownies are versatile!
Gooey Bourbon Pecan Pie Brownies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pecans for my brownies?
Absolutely! When selecting pecans, look for ones that are fresh and have a nice crunch. Avoid any nuts that have dark spots or a rancid smell, as these can indicate they’re past their prime. If possible, toast the pecans lightly before adding them to enhance their flavor and crunchiness in the brownies.
How should I store my brownies?
For optimal freshness, store your Gooey Bourbon Pecan Pie Brownies in an airtight container lined with parchment paper at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, but let them come back to room temperature before serving to relive that delightful gooeyness!
Can I freeze Gooey Bourbon Pecan Pie Brownies?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze these brownies! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and enjoy their rich flavors once more.
What if my brownies are too crumbly?
Very! If your brownies turn out crumbly, it might be because of overmixing or overbaking. Make sure you mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated, and check them at the lower end of the baking time. For future batches, consider adding an extra egg to enhance moisture and binding.
Can I make these brownies without bourbon?
Absolutely! If you wish to make a family-friendly version or accommodate someone who doesn’t consume alcohol, simply omit the bourbon. You might swap it with a teaspoon of vanilla extract or use a splash of espresso for an intriguing flavor profile without the spirits.
How long should I let my brownies cool before cutting?
For the best results, let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack, which usually takes about an hour. For cleaner cuts, you can chill them in the freezer for 15-20 minutes before slicing. This helps achieve those picture-perfect squares without crumbling.
Indulge in Gooey Bourbon Pecan Pie Brownies Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line an 8×8 baking pan with parchment paper.
- Whisk together dark brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.
- Melt the butter and dark chocolate together until smooth. Pour into the egg and sugar blend and whisk in the bourbon.
- Fold the flour, cocoa powder, and salt into the mixture. Pour batter into prepared pan.
- Bake the brownies for 25-30 minutes until set around the edges.
- Combine granulated and brown sugars, flour, honey, whisked egg, and vanilla in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until sugar dissolves. Stir in pecans and softened butter.
- Layer the pecan topping over the brownie base and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes.
- Cool the brownies completely in the pan, then chill in the freezer for 15-20 minutes before slicing.