In a saucepan set over medium heat, melt the butter. Turn off the heat.
Stir in the corn syrup, brown sugar, and vanilla. In a separate bowl, lightly whisk the egg, then slowly pour it into the pan while whisking constantly so it blends in without scrambling.
Turn the heat back on to medium low then continue to cook until the mixture is thickened and glossy.
Add the chopped pecans, let the mixture come to a gentle simmer. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring often. Take it off the heat and set it aside to cool slightly.
While the topping is cooling, in a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until creamy with no lumps.
Fold in the confectioner’s sugar and Cool Whip until the mixture looks light and fluffy.
Spread the cream mixture into a serving bowl. Spoon the pecan topping over the top.
Serve with graham crackers, vanilla wafers, or sliced apples for dipping.
Notes
Cooling the topping: Allow the pecan mixture to cool a bit before adding it to the cream layer so the dip doesn’t soften too much.
Make-ahead: You can prepare the cream base a day ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. Add the pecan topping right before serving.
Texture tip: For a crunchier topping, toast the pecans briefly in a dry skillet before adding them to the syrup mixture.
Serving idea: This dip is best enjoyed slightly chilled with the topping still warm (not hot) for a contrast in textures.