Pecan Brownies
Decadent pecan brownies combine rich chocolate flavor with crunchy pecans for a delightful treat. Their moist texture and nutty crunch make them perfect for dessert or a sweet snack. Easy to customize with frosting and pecan halves, they appeal to both chocolate lovers and nut enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- In a large bowl, beat sugar, brown sugar, and margarine until light and fluffy.
- Add vanilla and eggs; blend well.
- Stir in flour, baking powder, and salt; mix well.
- Fold in chopped pecans.
- Spread the batter in the prepared pan.
- Bake for 23 to 28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. (Baking for only 13 minutes may cause burning.)
- Cool completely in the pan.
- Frost with Betty Crocker cream cheese frosting.
- Arrange pecan halves over frosting, if desired.
- Cut into 36 bars and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with a gluten-free baking blend. To enhance the pecan flavor, toast the chopped pecans lightly before adding them to the batter. Make sure not to overmix once you add the flour, as this can lead to dense brownies. Serve with a scoop of ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delicious pecan brownies as a sweet treat at gatherings, pairing them with coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack. For an indulgent dessert, top with whipped cream or serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also pair beautifully with Aunt Rachel'S Fruit Cocktail Cake for a varied dessert platter, perfect for parties or family get-togethers.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pecan brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place a brownie in the microwave for 10-15 seconds until warm, or enjoy them cold for a firmer texture. They also freeze well for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pecan Brownies contains roughly 191 calories, with 1g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 12g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds, depending on your preference. Both nuts will add a unique flavor and texture to the brownies. Just make sure to chop them roughly to maintain a nice bite-sized crunch in the brownies.
Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Yes, these brownies can be made ahead of time. Bake and cool them completely, then store in an airtight container. You can frost them a day or two before serving; just keep them refrigerated if you do so. This makes them a convenient choice for gatherings or potlucks.
What can I do if my brownies turn out too dry?
If your brownies are too dry, it may be due to overbaking or not enough fat in the mix. To remedy this, try adding a bit more melted butter or margarine next time. If you already have dry brownies, consider serving them warm with ice cream or drizzling with chocolate sauce to add moisture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).