Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 10 tablespoons unsalted butter (140g)
- 1¼ cup granulated sugar (250g)
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (50g)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour (90g)
- ½ cup pecans, toasted and chopped (60g)
Topping
- 1 cup thick caramel sauce (240mL)
- ½ cup semisweet chocolate chips (90g)
- ½ cup pecans, toasted and chopped (60g)
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray an 8×8-inch baking pan with non-stick baking spray, and if preferred, line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the brownies later.
- Make the brownie base: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter for 3 to 4 minutes, swirling occasionally to avoid burning. Remove from heat and whisk in the granulated sugar and cocoa powder until smooth with no dry streaks, about 30 seconds. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and salt, and whisk vigorously for 30 seconds to combine.
- Incorporate dry ingredients and nuts: Stir in the all-purpose flour gently using a silicone or rubber spatula until a few streaks remain. Fold in ½ cup (60g) of the toasted and chopped pecans carefully to avoid overmixing the batter. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the surface.
- Bake the brownies: Bake in the preheated oven for 22 to 25 minutes for a fudgy center — test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; a few moist crumbs should cling to it. If you prefer cakey brownies, extend baking by 3 to 5 minutes. Once baked, allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan, about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- Add caramel and topping: Dollop the thick caramel sauce over the cooled brownies and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the surface with semisweet chocolate chips and the remaining ½ cup (60g) of toasted pecans. If the caramel feels runny or very soft, chill the pan in the refrigerator for 30 to 60 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Room temperature eggs incorporate better into the batter, leading to a smoother texture.
- To toast pecans, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes or toast on a stovetop skillet until fragrant.
- Using parchment paper helps easily lift the brownies out of the pan for neat cutting.
- Letting the brownies cool fully ensures the caramel topping sets properly without sliding off.
- Adjust baking time depending on your preference for fudgy versus cakey brownies.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American