If you’ve ever wished your favorite brownies came topped with buttery pecan pralines, this recipe makes that dream come true. Pecan Praline Brownies take classic fudgy chocolate brownies and elevate them with a sweet, rich praline topping that’s both crunchy and creamy.
The result? A dessert that’s indulgent but balanced — the deep cocoa flavor perfectly offsets the caramelized sweetness of the praline glaze. With gooey centers, crisp pecans, and that glossy brown sugar topping, these brownies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Perfect for the holidays, dinner parties, or whenever you need a chocolate fix with a touch of Southern comfort.
Why You’ll Love These Pecan Praline Brownies
- Fudgy texture — dense, chewy, and ultra-chocolatey.
- Buttery praline topping — sweet, nutty, and gooey with crunchy pecans.
- Beautiful presentation — shiny glaze that makes them bakery-worthy.
- Perfect make-ahead dessert — even better the next day!
- No mixer required — just a saucepan, a whisk, and pure chocolate bliss.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
This recipe marries two Southern favorites — fudge brownies and pecan pralines — into one show-stopping dessert. Each layer enhances the other: the brownies provide richness, while the praline topping adds texture and buttery depth.
It’s a unique dessert that feels luxurious but is easy enough for any home baker. Whether you serve them warm with ice cream or chilled for a chewy texture, they’ll be the first dessert to disappear at any table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Brownies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
For the Pecan Praline Topping:
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- ⅓ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups pecans, chopped or halved
- Pinch of salt
How to Make Pecan Praline Brownies (Step by Step)
Step 1: Preheat and prepare
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
Step 2: Melt butter and sugar
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in granulated sugar and brown sugar until combined. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 3: Add eggs and vanilla
Whisk in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract. Mix until glossy and smooth.
Step 4: Add dry ingredients
Sift in cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Stir gently until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips.
Step 5: Bake the brownies
Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter). Allow to cool slightly while you make the topping.
Step 6: Make the praline topping
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle boil and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly until thickened slightly. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, salt, and pecans.
Step 7: Pour and set
Pour the warm praline mixture evenly over the slightly cooled brownies. Let set at room temperature for at least 30–45 minutes before slicing.
Tips for the Best Pecan Praline Brownies
- Use quality cocoa powder — it makes all the difference in flavor.
- Don’t overbake — fudgy brownies continue cooking as they cool.
- Let brownies cool slightly before topping — prevents soggy layers.
- Toast the pecans — enhances flavor and adds extra crunch.
- Use real butter — for authentic praline richness.
- Add a pinch of sea salt — balances sweetness beautifully.
- Cool completely before slicing — the topping needs to set.
- Line your pan — for easy removal and clean edges.
- Serve warm with ice cream — for a restaurant-worthy dessert.
- Store properly — keeps them moist and chewy for days.
Variations & Substitutions
- Chocolate Ganache Drizzle: Add melted chocolate over the praline topping.
- Nut Mix: Use half pecans, half walnuts for added variety.
- Bourbon Twist: Stir a splash of bourbon into the praline sauce.
- Espresso Kick: Add 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder to the brownie batter.
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Salted Caramel Version: Add caramel drizzle before topping with praline.
- Vegan Option: Use vegan butter, coconut milk, and flax eggs.
- Extra Fudgy: Add 2 tablespoons melted chocolate to the batter.
- Double Chocolate: Stir in white chocolate chunks for contrast.
- Mini Brownie Bites: Bake in a mini muffin tin for bite-sized praline treats.
What to Serve With Pecan Praline Brownies
- Vanilla ice cream or salted caramel gelato
- Whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder
- Fresh berries for contrast
- Hot coffee or espresso for a balanced pairing
- Warm bourbon glaze for extra Southern flair
Storage & Reheating Tips
To Store:
Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or refrigerate for up to 1 week.
To Freeze:
Wrap brownies individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
To Reheat:
Warm in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to soften the praline topping slightly.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use boxed brownie mix?
Yes — use your favorite brand and top with the homemade praline sauce for an easy shortcut.
Can I make the topping ahead of time?
Yes — reheat gently before pouring over brownies.
Do I have to use pecans?
No, walnuts or almonds work great too.
Why did my praline topping crystallize?
It may have been cooked too long — only simmer for 2 minutes.
Can I make them extra gooey?
Reduce baking time by 3–5 minutes for softer centers.
Can I use dark chocolate chips?
Absolutely — they add depth and balance the sweetness.
Do these need to be refrigerated?
Not necessary, but refrigeration helps them last longer.
Can I make them nut-free?
Yes — skip pecans and use crushed pretzels or toffee bits.
Can I use evaporated milk instead of cream?
Yes — it works well in praline sauce.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, bake in a 9×13-inch deep pan and extend bake time slightly.
Final Thoughts
These Pecan Praline Brownies are a true masterpiece — rich, fudgy, buttery, and perfectly balanced. The gooey chocolate base paired with the caramelized pecan topping creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s pure dessert heaven.
Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a potluck, or just because you crave something indulgent, this recipe delivers every time. One bite, and you’ll understand why this combo of brownies and pralines is a Southern favorite that never goes out of style.