There’s something simply magical about a rich, fudgy brownie, and when bourbon and pecans come into play, it creates an irresistible treat known as Bourbon Pecan Fudge Brownies. These delightful squares are the perfect combination of sweet and nutty, elevated by the warmth of bourbon that strikes a beautiful balance against the dark chocolate. Whether you’re looking for a decadent dessert for a gathering or a cozy treat for yourself, these brownies offer just the right amount of indulgence and comfort.
Recipe Guide:
What is Bourbon Pecan Fudge Brownies?
Bourbon Pecan Fudge Brownies are a luxurious twist on classic brownies that merge the flavors of dark chocolate, crunchy pecans, and rich bourbon. Historically, brownies have been a staple dessert in American kitchens since the late 19th century and have evolved in countless ways over the years. This particular recipe embodies southern charm, where bourbon is often cherished as an ingredient in both cocktails and desserts. The addition of bourbon surprises your palate and gives these brownies a depth of flavor that’s simply delightful.
Why You’ll Love This
This recipe is your go-to when you want a dessert that’s easy to whip up yet impressive enough for guests. With minimal preparation, you’ll be able to enjoy gooey brownies in under an hour. Plus, it’s budget-friendly! Most ingredients are pantry staples, meaning you likely have what you need right at home. The dark chocolate and bourbon marry beautifully, creating an unforgettable flavor experience that will make them a favorite at any gathering—or just for those moments when you need a little pick-me-up.
How to Make
Quick Overview
Making Bourbon Pecan Fudge Brownies is a straightforward process that involves melting chocolate, mixing dry ingredients, and combining everything for a quick bake. You will need some basic kitchen tools, including a saucepan for melting, a whisk, and an 8-by-8-inch baking pan. From start to finish, these brownies take about 45 minutes, making it a breeze to treat yourself or your family.
Ingredients
. 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
. 1/3 cup dark or Dutch-processed cocoa powder, sifted
. 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
. 1/4 teaspoon instant espresso powder
. 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
. 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into cubes
. 5 ounces dark or bittersweet chocolate (70-75%), finely chopped
. 1 cup granulated sugar
. 2 large eggs, room temperature
. 3 tablespoons bourbon
. 1/3 cup semisweet chocolate chips or chunks, plus more for topping
. 3/4 cup coarsely chopped pecans, divided
. Flake sea salt, for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Line an 8-by-8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly butter the parchment for easy removal.
- In a bowl, whisk or sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, espresso powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside for now.
- In a saucepan, combine the cubed butter and chopped chocolate. Stir over low heat until the chocolate is almost melted, then remove from the heat. Continue stirring until it’s completely smooth, letting the residual heat do its work.
- Whisk the granulated sugar into the chocolate mixture until well combined; the batter will feel a bit grainy and paste-like.
- Add the eggs one at a time, whisking completely after each addition until the batter transforms into a smooth, shiny texture.
- Blend in the bourbon, and then sprinkle the dry ingredient mixture on top of the chocolate batter. Stir lightly until just combined.
- Gently fold in the semisweet chocolate chips and 1/2 cup of the chopped pecans.
- Transfer the batter into your prepared pan. Use an offset spatula to ensure it spreads evenly into the corners.
- Top the brownie batter with the remaining 1/4 cup of pecans, extra chocolate chips, and a sprinkle of flake sea salt, if desired.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is shiny and crackly, and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean.
- Once baked, let the brownies cool on a wire rack until fully cooled before slicing into squares. These delightful treats will stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
What to Serve with Bourbon Pecan Fudge Brownies
Pair these Bourbon Pecan Fudge Brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert. The creamy texture of the ice cream contrasts beautifully with the chewy brownies. You might also enjoy a side of fresh berries or a light salad to balance the richness. For a drink pairing, consider serving a rich coffee or a glass of bourbon—both complement the flavors perfectly and elevate the dessert experience.
Top Tips for Perfecting Bourbon Pecan Fudge Brownies
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Since these brownies center around chocolate, use high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor.
- Don’t Overmix: Once you stir in the dry ingredients, mix just until combined to ensure a fudgy texture.
- Stay Cool: Let the butter and chocolate mixture cool slightly before adding the eggs to avoid scrambling them.
- Room Temperature Eggs: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature for smooth incorporation, which helps achieve that shiny finish.
- Add More Nuts: Feel free to throw in more pecans for an extra crunch if desired!
- Cool Before Slicing: Allow the brownies to cool entirely before cutting them into squares for cleaner edges.
- Experiment with Toppings: Try drizzling caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream on top to elevate your plate!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Store any leftover Bourbon Pecan Fudge Brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them in individual squares wrapped in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer-friendly container. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in an oven preheated to 350 degrees F for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Bourbon Pecan Fudge Brownies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Line an 8-by-8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly butter the parchment for easy removal.
- In a bowl, whisk or sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, espresso powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside for now.
- In a saucepan, combine the cubed butter and chopped chocolate. Stir over low heat until the chocolate is almost melted, then remove from the heat. Continue stirring until it’s completely smooth, letting the residual heat do its work.
- Whisk the granulated sugar into the chocolate mixture until well combined; the batter will feel a bit grainy and paste-like.
- Add the eggs one at a time, whisking completely after each addition until the batter transforms into a smooth, shiny texture.
- Blend in the bourbon, and then sprinkle the dry ingredient mixture on top of the chocolate batter. Stir lightly until just combined.
- Gently fold in the semisweet chocolate chips and 1/2 cup of the chopped pecans.
- Transfer the batter into your prepared pan. Use an offset spatula to ensure it spreads evenly into the corners.
- Top the brownie batter with the remaining 1/4 cup of pecans, extra chocolate chips, and a sprinkle of flake sea salt, if desired.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is shiny and crackly, and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean.
- Once baked, let the brownies cool on a wire rack until fully cooled before slicing into squares.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I omit the bourbon from the brownies?
Absolutely! If you’d prefer a non-alcoholic version, simply leave it out. You can add a splash of vanilla extract for flavor instead.
2. How can I tell when the brownies are done baking?
When the top is shiny and crackly and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean, your brownies are ready!
3. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark?
Yes, but keep in mind that this will create a sweeter brownie. Dark chocolate adds depth and contrast to the dessert.
Conclusion
Bourbon Pecan Fudge Brownies are a must-try dessert that packs flavor and decadence in every bite. They’re easy to make, perfect for sharing, and will quickly become a favorite in your dessert lineup. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and whip up these delightful brownies soon; you won’t regret having a batch of these fudgy treats on hand!
More Resources
- Chewy Fudgy Frosted Brownies
- Pecan Pie Brownies
- Brown Sugar Pecan Pie Brownies
- Chocolate Mousse Brownie Cake
- Triple Chocolate Chip Crinkle Cookies
- Best Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe Ever
- Chocolate – Wikipedia
- Pecans Nutrition Facts – USDA FoodData Central
- Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate – Harvard Health
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