Pecan Pie Brownies

Since the holidays are anything but traditional this year, why not make a non-traditional dessert?! I’ve shared a variety of pie recipes here on EBF, but wanted to switch things up this year and share this spin on pecan pie. I’m a sucker for all types of brownies, but when brownies have a gooey, crispy pecan topping, it’s next level. Whether you’re gathering with immediate family or spending the holiday solo, I highly recommend making these brownies to lift your spirits!

While I’ve made sweet potato brownies and black bean brownies before, this recipe was my first adventure into almond flour brownies. It took some testing, but I think this pecan pie brownie recipe turned out perfectly. They’re rich and fudgy and SO delicious! The almond flour brownie base is perfectly moist and the pecan pie topping adds a satisfying crunchy, sweet crust to the treat.

Why You’ll Love These Brownies

• Two desserts in one – It’s the best of both worlds! Fudgy brownies meet gooey pecan pie for a dessert mashup that’s sure to impress.
• Naturally gluten-free – Thanks to almond flour, this recipe is completely gluten-free, making it a great option for anyone with dietary restrictions.
• Decadent yet balanced – The rich chocolate brownie layer pairs perfectly with the sweet, nutty pecan topping. It’s indulgent without being overly sweet.
• Perfect for the holidays – This dessert is guaranteed to steal the show at Thanksgiving or any holiday gathering. It’s classic and unique all at the same time!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list seems a little long for this recipe, but don’t worry it’s worth the extra ingredients and most are pantry staples you already have in your kitchen.

• blanched fine almond flour – I recommend Bob’s Red Mill super fine almond flour. It’s perfect for baked goods and what I use for all of my almond flour recipes.
• unsweetened cocoa powder – adds rich chocolate flavor to the brownie base. Opt for a high-quality cocoa powder for the best taste.
• chocolate chips – I love Lily’s chocolate chips for a lower sugar option or Enjoy Life chocolate chips for dairy-free.
• eggs – the key to binding the brownies and giving them that soft, fudgy texture.
• butter – adds richness to the brownies. You can use regular butter or swap with a dairy-free butter alternative if needed.
• cane sugar, brown sugar, and maple syrup – a blend of sweeteners that give the brownies depth and balance. The cane sugar and brown sugar add sweetness and structure, while the maple syrup adds a hint of caramel-like flavor.
• whole or chopped pecans – the star of the pecan pie layer! Use whole pecans for a classic look or chopped pecans for a more rustic feel. Either way, they add crunch and a buttery nuttiness that pairs perfectly with the chocolate.

Find the full ingredient list with measurements in the recipe card below.

How to Make Pecan Pie Brownies

• Combine wet ingredients – In a medium-sized bowl, whisk eggs. Stir in the melted butter, sugar, salt, vanilla and melted chocolate chips.
• Bake – Scoop the batter into a 9×9 baking dish sprayed with cooking spray and spread the batter to the edges. Bake at 350ºF for 20 minutes.
• Prepare pecan topping – While the brownies bake, combine the brown sugar, maple syrup, melted butter, egg, vanilla, salt and pecans in a small bowl.
• Bake and enjoy – After the brownies bake for 20 minutes, remove them from the oven and spread the pecan topping over the brownie batter. Place back in the oven and bake for another 20 minutes or until the topping has set. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.