Name: Cranberry Pecan Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups all-purpose flour; 0.5 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup granulated sugar; 0.5 cup brown sugar (packed); 1 cup unsalted butter (melted); 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 0.5 cup dried cranberries; 0.5 cup chopped pecans (toasted)

There’s nothing quite like the combination of tart cranberries and crunchy pecans to elevate your brownie game. These delicious cranberry pecan brownies are the perfect treat for any occasion, whether you’re serving them at a holiday dinner or simply indulging yourself on a cozy evening at home. Packed with the richness of dark chocolate and the subtle nuttiness of roasted pecans, this dessert will have you reaching for seconds!

Every year around Thanksgiving, my family would gather at my grandma’s house in Vermont, where she would bake her legendary brownies with a twist. One year, she added cranberries and pecans, which quickly became a staple at every holiday gathering. These brownies not only honored our family’s love for flavorful and unique desserts but also brought a new tradition to our table that I have continued with my own children.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The combination of tangy cranberries and crunchy pecans with decadent chocolate sets these brownies apart. They’re incredibly easy to make and require only a few simple ingredients, making them perfect for last-minute dessert plans. Whether you’re a fan of fruity desserts or nutty treats, these brownies offer the best of both worlds. Plus, the contrast of textures between the chewy brownie base and the crunchy topping is a delightful experience!

Ingredients Notes

To make these cranberry pecan brownies, you’ll need dark chocolate, unsalted butter, sugar, flour, eggs, dried cranberries, and pecans. Choose high-quality chocolate for the best results, and opt for unsalted, roasted pecans to enhance the nutty flavor. If you’re unable to source fresh cranberries, dried cranberries soaked in warm water for a few minutes work perfectly. Don’t forget, a dash of vanilla extract can take these brownies to another level!

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This preparation will ensure easy removal of brownies once baked.

Step 2

In a double boiler, melt the dark chocolate and butter together until smooth. Stir frequently to prevent burning, then remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.

Step 3

In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar and eggs until well combined. Gradually add the melted chocolate mixture and vanilla extract, stirring until smooth.

Step 4

Fold in flour using a spatula, being careful not to over-mix. Gently incorporate the cranberries and chopped pecans, spreading them evenly throughout the batter.

Step 5

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly into corners. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs. Let cool before cutting into squares.

Storage Options

To store these scrumptious cranberry pecan brownies, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight or reheat them in a preheated oven for a few minutes to restore their gooey texture.

Variations & Substitutions

If you’re catering to a vegan audience, consider substituting eggs with a flaxseed mixture and using dairy-free chocolate and butter. For a gluten-free version, use almond flour or your favorite gluten-free baking mix. If you want to switch up the flavors, try adding white chocolate chips or substituting pecans with walnuts.

Serving Suggestions

These brownies are perfect for any time of day. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delectable dessert or pair them with a cup of hot coffee for a delicious afternoon treat. For a festive touch, dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle with chocolate ganache before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh cranberries in this recipe? Yes, you can use fresh cranberries, but they should be chopped and tossed in a bit of sugar before adding to the batter. This helps to balance the tart flavor and integrate them better into the brownie mixture.

How can I prevent my brownies from becoming too dry? To avoid dry brownies, be sure to measure your ingredients precisely. Over-baking is often the culprit of dry brownies, so check them a few minutes before the recommended time is up. Remember, a slightly gooey interior is actually desirable with brownies.

What’s the best way to cut brownies cleanly? For neat slices, cool the brownies completely and use a sharp knife. It helps to dip the knife in hot water and wipe it clean between cuts. This ensures clean edges and prevents crumbs from catching on the knife.