If you are on the lookout for a decadent treat that combines the fudgy richness of classic brownies with the irresistible crunch and sweetness of praline, then this Praline Brownies Recipe is going to be your new favorite dessert. It’s a perfect balance of gooey chocolate beneath a luscious, buttery praline topping that melts delightfully in your mouth. Whether you are baking for a crowd or craving an indulgent snack, these brownies deliver layers of texture and flavor that make every bite unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Praline Brownies Recipe calls for simple ingredients that come together to create a spectacularly rich and textured dessert. Each component plays a critical role, from the fudgy brownie base to the creamy, nut-studded praline topping that crowns the bars with sweetness and crunch.
- Brownie mix (2 packages): The foundation for these brownies, providing a soft and chocolatey base ready in no time.
- Heavy cream (â…” cup): Adds luscious richness and helps create the smooth praline glaze.
- Butter (½ cup): Brings creaminess and depth of flavor to the praline topping.
- Brown sugar (1â…” cups, packed): Gives the praline its classic caramel notes and moist texture.
- Chopped pecans (â…” cup): Offers a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the sweetness.
- Powdered sugar (1â…” cup): Sweetens and thickens the praline glaze into a luscious frosting.
- Vanilla extract (1½ tsp): Enhances the overall flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
How to Make Praline Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Bake the Brownies
Begin by preparing the brownies according to the package directions using both boxes in a single 9×13-inch pan. Baking two mixes in one pan ensures you get a thick, rich base perfect for layering the praline topping. Make sure to let the brownies cool completely before moving on to the next step, as this will help the praline glaze set beautifully without melting into the chocolate base.
Step 2: Prepare the Praline Glaze
In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, butter, and packed brown sugar. Cook over medium heat while stirring frequently until the mixture reaches a boil. Allow it to boil for exactly one minute while continuously stirring to avoid burning and to achieve that silky, caramelized texture crucial for a perfect praline glaze.
Step 3: Mix in Pecans and Sweeteners
Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in chopped pecans, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. The nuts add that signature crunch and contrast to the smooth glaze, while the powdered sugar thickens the topping so it spreads easily over your cooled brownies. Allow this mixture to cool for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent clumping.
Step 4: Frost and Set
Spread the praline frosting evenly over the cooled brownies with a spatula. The thickness of this glaze is what sets these brownies apart, creating a delightful sweet shell with a nutty kick. Let the brownies stand at room temperature for 30 to 45 minutes until the praline layer is set and firm to the touch. Then cut into squares or bars to serve.
How to Serve Praline Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Praline Brownies Recipe even further, consider sprinkling extra chopped pecans or a dusting of powdered sugar on top just before serving. A drizzle of melted chocolate or a light brush of caramel sauce adds an elegant touch and enhances the layers of flavor. These simple garnishes turn this treat into a show-stopping dessert.
Side Dishes
Praline brownies shine as a rich dessert but pairing them with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream offers a refreshing contrast. The tartness of berries balances the sweetness, while creamy ice cream brings a cooling softness that complements the warm praline notes perfectly. For coffee lovers, serve alongside a strong espresso to cut through the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a unique twist, serve your praline brownies on a dessert platter alongside small ramekins of whipped cream or pecan praline sauce for dipping. Alternatively, layer broken praline brownie pieces in a parfait glass with whipped cream and chocolate shavings for an impressive, make-ahead dessert that’s perfect for dinner parties or family gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep your leftover praline brownies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps the brownie base moist and the praline topping crackly and delicious without becoming soggy.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these praline delights at a later date, you can freeze the brownies in airtight containers or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving to bring back their perfect texture.
Reheating
While praline brownies are best enjoyed at room temperature, you can gently warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds to revive the gooey chocolate and soften the praline topping slightly. Be careful not to overheat, as the topping can melt too much.
FAQs
Can I use homemade brownies instead of mix?
Absolutely! Feel free to bake your favorite brownie recipe from scratch. Just make sure your brownies are completely cooled before adding the praline topping for a smooth finish.
What nuts can I substitute for pecans?
Walnuts or almonds work well as alternatives if pecans are not available. Just chop them roughly to retain that wonderful crunch in the praline glaze.
Can I make the praline glaze ahead of time?
While it’s best to spread the praline glaze fresh, you can prepare it in advance and refrigerate it. Warm it gently before spreading to restore its spreadable consistency.
Are these brownies very sweet?
They are sweet but balanced by the deep chocolate flavor of the brownie base and the nutty pecans. The praline topping adds richness without overwhelming the palate.
How thick should the praline layer be?
The praline topping should be about a quarter-inch thick, thick enough to provide that satisfying crunchy glaze but not so thick that it becomes overpowering or difficult to cut.
Final Thoughts
This Praline Brownies Recipe is truly a celebration of textures and flavors that come together to create a remarkable treat your friends and family will rave about. The ease of using a brownie mix combined with the homemade praline frosting means you can whip up something extraordinary without hours in the kitchen. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—once you taste these rich, buttery, nutty brownies, you’ll want to keep this recipe at the top of your baking list forever!
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Praline Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 32 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in these decadent Praline Brownies perfect for potlucks or special occasions. Featuring a rich, fudgy brownie base topped with a luscious praline frosting made from cream, butter, brown sugar, pecans, and a hint of vanilla, these bars are irresistibly sweet and crunchy. The recipe uses two boxes of brownie mix baked together for an extra thick and satisfying treat.
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 2 (18.3-oz) packages brownie mix (plus ingredients required on the brownie mix box)
Praline Frosting
- â…” cup heavy cream
- ½ cup butter
- 1â…” cup packed brown sugar
- â…” cup chopped pecans
- 1â…” cup powdered sugar
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Brownies: Preheat your oven and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish. Mix the two brownie mixes along with required ingredients according to package directions. Pour the batter into the pan and bake both boxes together. Allow the brownies to cool completely before frosting.
- Make the Praline Frosting: In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, butter, and packed brown sugar. Cook over medium heat while stirring frequently until the mixture comes to a boil. Once boiling, continue to boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Add Pecans and Flavor: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the chopped pecans, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Continue stirring for 5 minutes as the frosting cools slightly, ensuring a smooth, thick consistency.
- Frost the Brownies: Spread this praline frosting evenly over the cooled brownies. Allow the frosting to stand undisturbed for 30 to 45 minutes until it is fully set and firm to the touch.
- Serve: Once the frosting is set, cut the brownies into 32 bars and serve. Enjoy the perfect combination of fudgy chocolate and crunchy praline topping.
Notes
- Ensure the brownies are completely cool before adding the praline frosting to prevent it from melting or becoming runny.
- Use freshly chopped pecans for the best texture and flavor in the praline topping.
- If you prefer a sweeter or less sweet topping, adjust the powdered sugar amount slightly to taste.
- Storing leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature will keep them fresh for up to 3 days.
