Delicious Caramel Pecan Brownies Recipe

If youre searching for a delightful treat that perfectly balances rich chocolate with the buttery sweetness of caramel and the crunch of pecans, look no further than this caramel pecan brownie recipe. These decadent brownies are sure to impress your friends and family, making them a perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether its a holiday gathering, a birthday party, or simply a sweet craving, these brownies will satisfy that need!

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Cooling Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

• For Brownies:
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
• For Caramel Sauce:
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Medium saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Food thermometer (optional)
• Parchment paper (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the 1 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, remove it from heat.
3. Add 2 cups of granulated sugar to the melted butter and whisk until combined.
4. Incorporate 4 large eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition, and then stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.
5. In a separate bowl, sift together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
6. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients using a rubber spatula until just combined. Do not overmix.
7. Finally, fold in 1 cup of chopped pecans into the brownie batter.

Step 2: Bake the Brownies

1. Line the 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal, or grease the pan with butter.
2. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with the spatula.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
4. Once baked, allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 20 minutes at room temperature.

Step 3: Prepare the Caramel Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1/4 cup of water. Stir gently to combine.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat without stirring. Allow it to boil until it turns an amber color, about 10-15 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.
3. Once the desired color is reached, carefully add 1/2 cup of heavy cream. The mixture will bubble up, so be cautious.
4. Stir in 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Combine Brownies and Caramel

1. Once the brownies have cooled, use a knife to carefully lift them out of the pan if you used parchment paper.
2. Cut the brownies into squares and place them on a serving platter.
3. Drizzle the warm caramel sauce over the brownies, allowing some to pool on the plate.
4. If desired, sprinkle additional chopped pecans on top for garnish.

Variations

• Nut-Free Option: Omit the pecans or substitute with chocolate chips to keep the brownies rich and indulgent.
• Dark Chocolate Brownies: Use dark cocoa powder for a more intense chocolate flavor.
• Salted Caramel: Add a pinch of sea salt to the caramel sauce for a contrast that enhances the flavor.
• Swirls: Use a knife to create swirls of caramel within the brownie batter before baking for a marbled effect.

Storage

• Store any leftover caramel pecan brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate the brownies for up to a week, or freeze them wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Before serving, thaw frozen brownies in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.

Serving Suggestions

• These caramel pecan brownies are delicious on their own, but you can elevate the experience by serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Drizzle additional caramel sauce on individual servings for an extra indulgent touch.
• Pair with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk for a delightful treat any time of day.
• Consider adding a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of toasted pecans for an appetizing presentation.

Conclusion

These caramel pecan brownies are not only easy to make, but they also bring together rich chocolate, nutty pecans, and sweet caramel, making them a standout dessert. They are perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or simply treating yourself. Follow the steps above to create a batch of these delectable brownies that everyone will love. Enjoy baking and indulging in these tasty treats!