As I stood in my kitchen, the rich aroma of chocolate and toasted pecans danced through the air, instantly transporting me to a cozy holiday gathering. Enter the delightful realm of Gooey Pecan Pie Brownie Bombs—where the beloved flavors of classic pecan pie meet the irresistible charm of brownies. These little bites of heaven are not just about their indulgent taste; they’re a quick-prep dream for any home chef, perfect for impressing friends and family, or for treating yourself on a quiet night in. Imagine each gooey morsel melting in your mouth, the crunch of pecans providing the ideal contrast to the fudgy brownie shell. Curious to discover how to whip up this delectable dessert? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Are These Brownie Bombs Irresistible?
Gooey Texture: The combination of soft brownie and succulent pecan filling creates an indulgent bite that’s impossible to resist.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights, these bombs will definitely steal the spotlight at any dessert table.
Customizable Flavor: Whether you prefer maple syrup or a dash of spice, you can easily adjust the recipe to suit your taste.
Make-Ahead Option: Prepare them in advance and store in the fridge or freezer for a sweet treat whenever the craving strikes!
Dive into the world of dessert innovation with these Gooey Pecan Pie Brownie Bombs; they truly embody the essence of home baking at its best!
Gooey Pecan Pie Brownie Bombs Ingredients
For the Brownies
• Brownies – Use a box mix or homemade recipe designed for an 8″x8″ pan for the right consistency.
• Chopped Pecans – 2/3 cup, plus more for garnish; they add a delightful crunch and are key to creating a gooey experience.
For the Pecan Filling
• Egg – 1; make sure it’s whisked well to bind the filling together perfectly.
• Granulated Sugar – 1 & 3/4 tablespoons; this sweetens the filling beautifully.
• Corn Syrup – 1/3 cup; it provides the sweetness and structure to the pecan filling (maple syrup can be a delicious alternative).
• Unsalted Butter – 1 tablespoon, melted and cooled; this ingredient adds a rich flavor to the filling.
• Salt – Pinch; this balances the sweetness of the filling for a more rounded flavor.
For the Coating
• Chocolate Almond Bark – 1 package, melted; it forms a luscious outer layer. For a vegan option, substitute with dairy-free chocolate!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gooey Pecan Pie Brownie Bombs
Step 1: Prepare the Brownies
Start by preparing your brownies according to your favorite box mix or homemade recipe in an 8″x8″ pan. Bake them according to the package instructions, usually around 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Once baked, allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Step 2: Preheat and Grease
While the brownies cool, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 6-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. This dish will be used for the pecan pie filling, so ensure it’s well-coated to prevent sticking. Set it aside for the next step while the temperature rises.
Step 3: Add the Chopped Pecans
Once your dish is greased, add the 2/3 cup of chopped pecans to the bottom of the dish in an even layer. This nutty base will create the delectable gooey center of your Gooey Pecan Pie Brownie Bombs. Set aside while you prepare the filling mixture in the next step.
Step 4: Whisk the Pecan Filling
In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg, 1 & 3/4 tablespoons of granulated sugar, 1/3 cup of corn syrup (or maple syrup if you prefer), melted and cooled butter, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until all ingredients are fully combined and smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over the pecans in the greased baking dish.
Step 5: Allow the Pecans to Rise
After pouring the filling, gently tap the baking dish on the counter a few times. This allows the pecans to rise through the filling, creating that classic pecan pie texture. The filling should be slightly jiggly in the center for the perfect gooey result as it bakes.
Step 6: Bake the Filling
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the filling is set with a slight jiggle in the center. This creates a rich pecan pie blend that complements the brownie. Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool completely in the dish so it firms up.
Step 7: Cut into Brownies
When the pecan filling has cooled completely, take the brownies and cut them into 16 equal pieces. Each piece should be about 2 inches square. Gently flatten each brownie piece in your hand to create space for the pecan filling, making it easier to encase the filling later.
Step 8: Assemble the Brownie Bombs
Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the cooled pecan pie filling into the center of each brownie piece. Carefully fold the brownie over the filling, pinching and rolling it to create a ball. Ensure that the filling is completely encased to prevent leakage. Place each ball onto a parchment-lined tray.
Step 9: Chill the Brownie Bombs
Refrigerate the assembled brownie bombs for about 1 hour. Chilling helps firm up the filling and makes them easier to dip in chocolate later. This step is crucial for achieving that delightful, gooey center when bitten into.
Step 10: Coat with Chocolate
Next, melt your chocolate almond bark according to package instructions. Once melted, dip each chilled brownie ball into the chocolate, ensuring they are fully coated. Let any excess chocolate drip off back into the bowl before placing them back on the parchment-lined tray.
Step 11: Garnish and Chill Again
If desired, sprinkle additional chopped pecans on top of the chocolate coating right after dipping. This adds an appealing visual element to your Gooey Pecan Pie Brownie Bombs. Chill the tray again for about 5 minutes or until the chocolate hardens completely.
Step 12: Serve and Enjoy
Once the chocolate coating has set, your Gooey Pecan Pie Brownie Bombs are ready to serve! Enjoy them as decadent dessert bites perfect for any occasion, or store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days for a sweet treat whenever you desire.
Helpful Tricks for Gooey Pecan Pie Brownie Bombs
• Cool Completely: Allow brownies to cool fully before shaping to avoid breaking and ensure smooth rolling.
• Use Fresh Pecans: Opt for fresh pecans for a richer flavor and crunch. Stale nuts can diminish the overall taste.
• Don’t Rush the Chill: Refrigerate the assembled brownie bombs for at least an hour; this helps set the filling and keeps everything intact when coated.
• Chocolate Temperature: Ensure the chocolate coating isn’t too hot; it should be melted but manageable so it doesn’t melt the brownie bombs.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to customize the filling—add a hint of cinnamon or substitute maple syrup for a unique twist on these gooey pecan pie brownie bombs.
Gooey Pecan Pie Brownie Bombs Variations
Feel free to experiment with these exciting twists to make the Gooey Pecan Pie Brownie Bombs even more delightful!
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Nut Alternatives: Substitute chopped walnuts or almonds for pecans to change the flavor profile. Each nut brings its unique texture and taste, providing an exciting new spin on this treat.
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Maple Twist: For a delightful variation, try using maple syrup instead of corn syrup in your filling. The rich, caramel-like sweetness will elevate the desserts to another level, infusing them with a warm, comforting flavor.
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Spice It Up: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the pecan filling for a warm and inviting spice that harmoniously pairs with the chocolate. This small addition can awaken your senses and give the bombs a holiday feel.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Use dairy-free chocolate for coating to make this treat vegan-friendly. This way, everyone can enjoy them, and you still achieve that luscious chocolate coating that complements the gooey filling.
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Gluten-Free Option: Swap out the regular brownie mix for a gluten-free version. Many box mixes work wonderfully, allowing those with dietary restrictions to savor these indulgent bites as well.
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Chocolate Chip Boost: For even more chocolatey goodness, consider adding chocolate chips to the pecan filling. They melt nicely and create pockets of gooey deliciousness inside every bite of brownie.
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Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the chocolate coating for an added layer of sweetness and texture. This sweet addition creates a beautiful presentation and a flavor explosion in your mouth!
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Coconut Crunch: Incorporate shredded coconut into the pecan filling to enhance the texture and add a tropical flair. The distinct flavor of coconut pairs excellently with chocolate and pecans, making for a truly unique dessert.
Unlock your creativity and make these bites fit every mood or occasion! For more tempting ideas, check out my Fudge Sundae Brownie or indulge in a delicious Caramel Brownie Cheesecake for a change. The options are endless!
Make Ahead Options
These Gooey Pecan Pie Brownie Bombs are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the brownies and pecan filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply bake the brownies and cool them completely, then prepare the pecan pie filling and bake it; once cooled, you can store both components separately in airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to assemble, follow the step of rolling the fillings into the brownie pieces and chilling them. For serving, just dip the chilled brownie bombs in melted chocolate almond bark, and you’ll have delightful, ready-to-enjoy treats that are just as delicious as fresh!
What to Serve with Gooey Pecan Pie Brownie Bombs
Pairing these indulgent treats with the perfect sides elevates your dessert experience to new heights.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, its creamy, cool texture complements the rich brownies beautifully, balancing sweetness with a delightful contrast.
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Whipped Cream: A fluffy dollop adds lightness and a touch of elegance, creating a luxurious experience with every bite.
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Fresh Berries: Serve with strawberries or raspberries for a burst of freshness and slight tartness that offsets the sweetness of the brownie bombs.
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Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors of coffee accentuate the chocolate and nutty notes, making each preparation feel like a cozy café experience at home.
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Milk: A tall glass of cold milk offers a nostalgic touch, cleansing the palate and enhancing the gooey goodness of these brownie treats.
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Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: If you can’t get enough chocolate, a drizzle enhances the dessert’s decadent feel and provides a beautiful presentation on your serving platter.
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Cheesecake Bites: For those who adore variety, these creamy, tangy bites create an exciting dessert platter that guests will love.
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Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: A fun twist, they echo the chocolatey theme while introducing brightness from the fruit—always a hit at gatherings!
Storage Tips for Gooey Pecan Pie Brownie Bombs
Fridge: Store the brownie bombs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This keeps them fresh and gooey, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the brownie bombs for up to a month. Make sure to place them in a single layer in an airtight container to prevent sticking.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, allow the frozen brownie bombs to thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. They’re also delightful when enjoyed chilled!
Reheating: If you prefer a softer texture, gently microwave them for 10-15 seconds; be careful not to overheat, or the chocolate coating may melt.
Gooey Pecan Pie Brownie Bombs Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe pecans for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting pecans, look for those that are firm and not shriveled. Fresh pecans will have a rich, nutty aroma and should have no dark spots or signs of mold. Opt for those stored in sealed containers to ensure maximum freshness!
How should I store my Gooey Pecan Pie Brownie Bombs?
Store the brownie bombs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This helps maintain their gooey texture and flavor. If you prefer, you can also keep them in the freezer for up to 3 months! Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking, and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying.
Can I freeze these brownie bombs?
Very! To freeze, place the brownie bombs in a single layer in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature for about 30-60 minutes. For a quick treat, they’re delightful even straight from the fridge for a fudgier bite!
What should I do if my pecan filling is too runny?
If you find that your pecan filling is too runny, it might be due to using too much corn syrup or not baking it long enough. To troubleshoot, make sure to whisk the egg and sugar together well, ensuring they’re smooth before adding to the pecans. Bake until it’s slightly jiggy in the center but set around the edges. You can also let it cool for a bit before assembling the brownie bombs, as it will thicken more as it cools.
Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
Absolutely! These brownie bombs contain common allergens like nuts, eggs, and chocolate, so please be cautious if anyone you’re serving has allergies. Additionally, ensure they are kept away from pets, especially chocolate, which can be toxic to dogs and cats. If you’re adapting the recipe for allergies, consider using gluten-free brownie mix and dairy-free chocolate options!
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, the more the merrier! You can easily substitute chopped walnuts or almonds for pecans if that’s your preference. For a twist, you might even consider adding a dash of cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor to the filling! Just be sure to adjust the quantity as needed for a balanced taste.
Gooey Pecan Pie Brownie Bombs That Will Wow Your Taste Buds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare your brownies according to your favorite box mix or homemade recipe in an 8"x8" pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes.
- While the brownies cool, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 6-inch baking dish.
- Add the 2/3 cup of chopped pecans to the bottom of the dish in an even layer.
- Whisk together the egg, 1.75 tablespoons of sugar, 1/3 cup of corn syrup, melted butter, and a pinch of salt. Pour over the pecans.
- Gently tap the baking dish on the counter to allow the pecans to rise through the filling.
- Bake for about 20 minutes, until the filling is set with a slight jiggle in the center.
- Once cooled, cut the brownies into 16 equal pieces, around 2 inches square.
- Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the pecan pie filling into the center of each brownie piece and fold over to create a ball.
- Refrigerate the assembled brownie bombs for about 1 hour.
- Melt the chocolate almond bark and dip each chilled brownie ball into the chocolate.
- If desired, sprinkle additional chopped pecans on top right after dipping the chocolate.
- Chill the tray again for about 5 minutes until the chocolate hardens completely.
- Serve and enjoy your Gooey Pecan Pie Brownie Bombs!
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