Pecan Brownie Bombs – A Refined Sugar Free Indulgence

 

When it comes to desserts, few things feel as indulgent as the combination of fudgy brownies, gooey pecan pie filling, and rich chocolate. But what if you could enjoy all of that decadence without refined sugar? That’s exactly what these Pecan Brownie Bombs deliver. Sweetened with nutrient-rich Mānuka honey instead of processed sugar, these little bites are proof that a healthier dessert can still feel utterly luxurious.

Perfect for holiday gatherings, dinner parties, or simply when you want a bite-sized treat that satisfies both chocolate and nut lovers, brownie bombs are a fun twist on traditional brownies. Each one hides a gooey pecan pie filling inside a fudgy brownie shell, all wrapped in a silky chocolate coating. They’re portable, easy to serve, and guaranteed to get a “wow” when you bring them out.

Why Choose a Refined Sugar Free Dessert?

Most traditional brownie recipes rely on white or brown sugar for sweetness, but replacing that with Mānuka honey brings a few extra benefits to the table. Not only does it provide natural sweetness with a depth of flavor that complements chocolate beautifully, but it also delivers antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that refined sugar lacks.

By using honey as your sweetener, you’re creating a dessert that is easier on your blood sugar levels, while still enjoying all the indulgence of your favorite treats. For families or those making small lifestyle swaps, this is a delicious way to upgrade a classic recipe.

Occasions to Serve Pecan Brownie Bombs

These bite-sized desserts are versatile enough to fit any occasion:

• Holiday parties: A festive alternative to cookies or fudge.

• Dessert tables: Their bite-sized format makes them perfect for buffets.

• Gift giving: Pack them into small boxes or jars for homemade, thoughtful gifts.

• Dinner parties: Impress your guests with a unique dessert that looks as good as it tastes.

• Everyday treat: Keep a batch in the fridge for when chocolate cravings strike.

INGREDIENTS

For the Brownies:

• 1 recipe for an 8×8 pan of brownies

• 1/2 cup cocoa powder

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup butter

• 3/4 cup Mānuka honey - (we used UMF10+)

• 2 eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Pecan Pie Filling:

• 2/3 cup chopped pecans, plus more for garnish (optional)

• 1 egg

• 1 & 3/4 tablespoons granulated sugar

• 1/3 cup Mānuka honey

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted and cooled

• Pinch of salt

For the Coating:

• 1 package chocolate, melted

METHOD

Prepare the Brownies

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 baking pan.

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk melted butter with honey until smooth.

• Add eggs one at a time, whisking until blended, then stir in vanilla.

• In another bowl, sift cocoa powder and flour together.

• Fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Do not over-mix.

• Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30–35 minutes.

• Let brownies cool completely before shaping into bombs.

Prepare the Pecan Pie Filling

• Lightly grease a small (6-inch) baking dish.

• Spread chopped pecans evenly across the base.

• In a bowl, whisk together egg, sugar, honey, melted butter, and salt.

• Pour mixture over pecans, tapping the dish gently so pecans rise to the top.

• Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes, until just slightly jiggly in the center.

• Allow to cool fully before using.

Assemble the Brownie Bombs

• Trim edges from cooled brownies and cut into 16 equal pieces.

• Flatten one piece in your palm and place 1 teaspoon of pecan filling in the center.

• Wrap brownie around filling, shaping into a ball.

• Place on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for 1 hour.

Coat the Brownie Bombs

• Dip each bomb into melted chocolate, letting excess drip off.

• Place back onto parchment and sprinkle with extra chopped pecans if desired.

• Chill for 5 minutes until chocolate coating is firm.

Final Thoughts

These Pecan Brownie Bombs are proof that healthy swaps don’t mean compromising on taste. With the richness of Mānuka honey, the nuttiness of pecans, and the indulgence of a chocolate shell, they’re everything a dessert should be—comforting, satisfying, and unforgettable.

Whether you’re serving them at a party, gifting them during the holidays, or keeping a stash in the fridge for late-night cravings, these little bombs are guaranteed to become a favorite.