Get ready for a delicious mashup: Pecan Pie Brownie Bars! Picture a buttery shortbread crust, a layer of rich, fudgy brownies, and a sweet pecan caramel topping. What’s the result? A treat that’s the best of both worlds!
Pecan Pie Brownie Bars
Ingredients
**For the Brownie Batter:**
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon espresso powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
**For the Shortbread Pie Crust:**
- 2/3 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
- Pinch of salt
**For the Pecan Pie Topping:**
- 1 1/2 cups pecans chopped
- 2/3 cup heavy cream
- 2/3 cup light brown sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
**Making the Pecan Pie Layer:**
- In a pan over medium heat, combine pecans, heavy cream, brown sugar, butter, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Transfer the mixture to a bowl and let it cool to room temperature.
**Preparing the Brownie Layer:**
- Whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until smooth.
- Add cocoa powder, salt, espresso powder, vanilla extract, vegetable oil, and heavy cream. Microwave for 30 seconds until warm, not hot.
- Whisk until smooth, then add eggs and whisk well.
- Mix in all-purpose flour until a thick batter forms.
**Making the Crust:**
- In a small bowl, combine melted butter, sugar, flour, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until dough forms.
**Assembling and Baking:**
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper and press the dough evenly into the bottom.
- Pour the brownie batter on top and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until fudgy in the center.
- Let it cool to room temperature, then spread the pecan pie layer on top.
- Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes until set, then cut into squares and enjoy!