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Decadent Praline Brownies with Crunchy Pecan Topping

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Rich and fudgy brownies topped with a sticky, caramelized praline pecan topping that adds a perfect crunch and sweetness. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
  • ½ cup (100g) brown sugar
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour, sifted
  • ¾ cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-processed recommended)
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 ½ cups (180g) chopped pecans, toasted lightly
  • ½ cup (100g) brown sugar (for praline topping)
  • 3 tbsp (45g) butter (for praline topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan lightly with butter or line it with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and eggs until smooth and glossy, about 2-3 minutes. Add vanilla extract and whisk again.
  3. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
  4. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a rubber spatula until just combined. The batter should be thick and fudgy; avoid overmixing.
  5. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons butter with ½ cup brown sugar. Stir constantly until the mixture bubbles and thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in chopped pecans to coat evenly.
  6. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Spoon the praline pecan mixture evenly over the top, pressing down gently to help it stick.
  7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. The edges should look set and slightly crackled.
  8. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack for at least 1 hour to allow the praline topping to set.
  9. Slice into squares using a sharp knife, wiping it clean between cuts.

Notes

Avoid overbaking; brownies continue to cook as they cool. Let brownies cool completely before slicing to keep praline topping crunchy and prevent sogginess. Toast pecans lightly before use for enhanced flavor. For gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free baking blend. For dairy-free, swap butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate.

Nutrition

Keywords: praline brownies, pecan brownies, chocolate brownies, praline topping, fudgy brownies, easy dessert, quick brownies, caramelized pecans