Best-ever Pecan Brownies

Introduction

History

The concept of brownies originated in the United States towards the end of the 19th century. A cross between a cake and a soft cookie, the brownie has evolved into various forms, with nuts being a popular addition for added texture and flavor. Our Best-ever Pecan Brownies recipe pays homage to this tradition, incorporating pecans which have been a beloved ingredient in American baking, particularly in the South, where pecan trees are indigenous.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best results, use high-quality cocoa powder and fresh pecans. Toasting the pecans before adding them to the batter can enhance their flavor. Ensure the butter is melted but not too hot when mixing with the eggs to avoid cooking the eggs prematurely. For a more fudgy texture, you can slightly underbake the brownies. Letting them cool completely in the pan allows them to set properly for easier cutting.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these pecan brownies as a standalone treat or elevate them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent dessert. They also pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk.

Cooking Techniques

For evenly baked brownies, use an oven thermometer to ensure the correct temperature. Cutting them with a plastic knife or a warm metal knife can help achieve clean slices without crumbling.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a gluten-free version, substitute the flour with your favorite gluten-free blend. If you're out of butter, coconut oil can be a suitable alternative. Maple syrup or honey can replace sugar for a different flavor profile, though this will alter the texture slightly.

Make Ahead Tips

These brownies can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Cut the brownies into elegant, small squares and dust them with powdered sugar or cocoa powder for a simple yet sophisticated presentation. Garnishing with whole or half pecans before baking adds a visually appealing touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair these pecan brownies with a robust coffee, such as an espresso or a dark roast, to complement their rich flavor. For wine enthusiasts, a sweet red wine or a port can make for an exquisite pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them. To reheat, place them in a warm oven for a few minutes or microwave briefly to restore their fresh-baked taste and texture.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of these decadent pecan brownies contains approximately 300 calories. The calories are primarily derived from the sugar, butter, and flour, making these brownies a rich treat best enjoyed in moderation.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of these pecan brownies contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this recipe are sugar and flour, which provide the brownies with their classic texture and sweetness.

Fats

The fats in these brownies come from the butter and pecans, contributing to the rich, moist texture. Each serving contains about 20 grams of fat, with a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats. The pecans add healthy monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.

Proteins

These pecan brownies offer a modest protein content, with approximately 5 grams per serving. The eggs and pecans are the primary sources of protein in this recipe, providing essential amino acids necessary for body repair and maintenance.

Vitamins and minerals

Pecans are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, vitamin B1 (thiamine), magnesium, and zinc. These nutrients contribute to the overall nutritional profile of the brownies, supporting health in various ways, from antioxidant protection to energy metabolism.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens: eggs, wheat (gluten), and tree nuts (pecans). Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this dessert or seek suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, these pecan brownies are a rich source of carbohydrates and fats, with a moderate amount of protein. They also provide essential vitamins and minerals, thanks to the inclusion of pecans. While delicious, they are calorie-dense and contain common allergens, so they should be enjoyed with these considerations in mind.

Summary

Our Best-ever Pecan Brownies recipe offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. With its rich history, nutritional content, and versatile serving options, this recipe is sure to become a cherished addition to your baking collection. Enjoy the process of creating these delicious brownies and the pleasure of sharing them with friends and family.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for the best-ever Pecan Brownies. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha in her cozy little cottage by the lake. Martha was known for her incredible baking skills, and I always looked forward to trying out her latest creations.

As soon as I stepped into her kitchen, I was greeted by the most intoxicating aroma of chocolate and pecans. Martha was busy at work, mixing and pouring and sprinkling ingredients into a bowl with such grace and precision. I couldn't help but be drawn to her side, eager to see what delicious treat she was preparing.

"Ah, Ruthie, you've arrived just in time," Martha exclaimed, flashing me a warm smile. "I'm making my famous Pecan Brownies today, and I could use an extra set of hands. Would you like to help me?"

I eagerly nodded my head, eager to learn the secrets behind Martha's delectable brownies. As she guided me through the recipe, I watched in awe as she effortlessly combined butter, sugar, eggs, and cocoa powder into a smooth batter. The rich, chocolatey aroma wafted through the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation.

"Now, the secret to these brownies is the pecans," Martha explained, reaching for a bag of freshly chopped nuts. "They add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that takes these brownies to a whole new level."

I followed Martha's lead as she folded the pecans into the batter, creating a velvety mixture that looked almost too good to resist. She poured the batter into a greased pan and popped it into the oven, the sweet scent of chocolate filling the air.

As we waited for the brownies to bake, Martha regaled me with stories of how she had acquired the recipe. She had learned it from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through generations. The recipe had been a closely guarded secret in their family, and Martha had spent years perfecting it to make it her own.

"I remember the first time I made these brownies for my husband," Martha chuckled, her eyes twinkling with nostalgia. "He took one bite and declared them the best he had ever tasted. From that moment on, these brownies became a staple in our household."

Finally, the timer dinged, and Martha carefully removed the pan from the oven. The brownies were a rich, golden brown, with a crackly top that promised a fudgy interior. I could hardly contain my excitement as Martha sliced them into squares and placed them on a platter.

"Go on, Ruthie, try one," Martha urged, handing me a warm, gooey brownie. I took a bite, and instantly, my taste buds were overwhelmed with a symphony of flavors. The chocolate was rich and decadent, the pecans added a delightful crunch, and the sweetness was perfectly balanced.

"These truly are the best-ever Pecan Brownies," I exclaimed, my eyes widening in amazement. Martha beamed with pride, knowing that her beloved recipe had once again won over a new admirer.

From that day on, I made Martha's Pecan Brownies whenever I wanted to treat my family and friends to a special dessert. I added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different types of chocolate and varying the amount of pecans for extra crunch. Each time I made them, I felt a sense of connection to Martha and her grandmother, knowing that I was carrying on a tradition that had brought joy to so many.

As the years passed, Martha's Pecan Brownies became a beloved staple in my own household, just as they had been in hers. I would often think back to that fateful day in Martha's kitchen, where I had first discovered the magic of these delectable treats. And I would always be grateful for the friendship and the recipe that had brought us together.

Categories

| American Recipes | Cocoa Recipes | Egg Recipes | Pecan Recipes | Wheat Flour Recipes | World Recipes |

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