Craving something chocolatey and pumpkin-spiced? These Pumpkin Brownies are your perfect match. With a rich, fudgy brownie base and a luscious swirl of spiced pumpkin cream cheese, they deliver all the fall flavors in a decadent, chewy bite.
Whether you’re looking for a fun Halloween dessert, a twist on classic brownies, or just a reason to use that can of pumpkin in your pantry, this recipe is a must-try. Moist, bold, and easy to make with pantry staples, pumpkin brownies are sure to become a seasonal favorite.
Ingredients:
For the Brownie Batter:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Pumpkin Swirl:
- ¾ cup canned pumpkin purée
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter
- In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in flour and salt until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 3: Make the Pumpkin Swirl
- In another bowl, beat together the pumpkin purée, cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Dollop spoonfuls of the pumpkin mixture on top. Use a knife to gently swirl the pumpkin through the brownie batter for a marbled effect.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking for the best fudgy texture.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
- Allow to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares. For cleaner cuts, chill for 30 minutes before slicing.
Variation:
- Pumpkin Chocolate Chip: Stir ½ cup chocolate chips into the pumpkin layer
- Double Chocolate: Add ½ cup chocolate chunks to the brownie batter
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute
- Vegan: Use plant-based butter, dairy-free cream cheese, and flax eggs
- Nutty: Sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts before baking
COOKING Note:
Use pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling, which is already spiced and sweetened. Room temperature ingredients help the swirl mix smoothly and blend beautifully with the brownie batter.
Serving Suggestions:
- Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
- Drizzle with caramel or chocolate syrup
- Dust with powdered sugar or cinnamon
- Serve with a latte or chai tea for the perfect fall snack
- Cut into small squares for a fall dessert platter
Tips:
- Chill before cutting for neat, sharp edges
- Use unsweetened cocoa powder for rich chocolate flavor
- Brownies are done when the center is just set—don’t overbake
- Store covered at room temp for 2 days, or refrigerate up to 5
- Freeze leftovers tightly wrapped for up to 2 months
⏱️ Time Overview:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Bake Time: 35–40 minutes
- Cool Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: ~1 hour 25 minutes
🍽️ Nutritional Information (Per Brownie, approx. 16 servings):
- Calories: ~260
- Protein: ~3g
- Carbohydrates: ~32g
- Fat: ~13g
- Sugar: ~22g
- Sodium: ~105mg
- Fiber: ~2g
Nutrition estimates vary depending on ingredients and portion size.
❓FAQs
Can I use boxed brownie mix?
- Yes! Use your favorite boxed mix and just add the pumpkin swirl on top before baking.
Do these brownies need to be refrigerated?
- They’re fine at room temperature for 1–2 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate in an airtight container.
Can I make them ahead of time?
- Absolutely. They taste even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
Can I skip the cream cheese?
- You can, but it adds richness. Try just the pumpkin purée and spices for a lighter swirl.
Why are my brownies too cakey?
- Overmixing or overbaking can lead to cakier texture. Mix just until combined and bake only until set.
Conclusion:
These Pumpkin Brownies are a chocolate lover’s dream with a seasonal twist. The rich, fudgy brownie base paired with warm, spiced pumpkin swirl makes for an irresistible dessert you’ll want to bake again and again during the fall.
Whether you’re baking for a Halloween party, Thanksgiving dessert table, or simply a cozy night in, this recipe is the ultimate way to celebrate pumpkin season.