Pumpkin Brownies Recipe
Nothing welcomes the fall season quite like these pumpkin brownies! Fudgy chocolate brownies with a creamy pumpkin swirl are perfect for gatherings, cozy nights in, or festive celebrations. This Pumpkin Brownies Recipe combines rich flavors and a delightful texture that will impress your family and friends. With its easy preparation and unique taste, this dessert is sure to become a seasonal favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of chocolate and pumpkin creates a mouthwatering treat that’s hard to resist.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you can whip up these brownies in no time, making them great for last-minute desserts.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or a casual get-together, these brownies fit right in.
- Creamy Texture: The cream cheese and pumpkin swirl adds an extra layer of creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the fudgy brownie base.
- Kid-Friendly: This recipe is not only delicious but also fun for kids to help make!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the Pumpkin Brownies Recipe, gather the necessary tools to make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Hand or stand mixer
- Baking pan (8×8 inches)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon or toothpick
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: These are essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without mess.
- Hand or stand mixer: Using a mixer ensures the cream cheese mixture becomes smooth and well-combined quickly.
- Baking pan: A sturdy pan allows even baking of the brownies, ensuring they cook consistently throughout.

Ingredients
For the Cream Cheese Mixture
- 4 ounces cream cheese (room temperature (½ brick))
- ⅔ cup pumpkin puree
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
For the Brownie Base
- 18.3 ounces fudge brownie mix (1 box)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons water
How to Make Pumpkin Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly spray an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a medium bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to beat together the following ingredients:
1. Cream cheese
2. Pumpkin puree
3. Egg
4. Granulated sugar
5. Pumpkin pie spice
6. Ground cinnamon
7. Kosher salt
Beat on medium speed until everything is well combined and smooth. Set this mixture aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Brownie Mix
Follow the instructions on the box of brownie mix to prepare it. Once ready, spread ⅔ of the brownie batter into your prepared baking pan.
Step 4: Add Cream Cheese Mixture
Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the brownie batter.
Step 5: Layer Remaining Brownie Batter
Spoon the remaining ⅓ of brownie batter over the top of the brownies, trying to cover as much as possible.
Step 6: Swirl Mixtures Together
Use a spoon or toothpick to gently drag through both mixtures, creating a swirl effect.
Step 7: Bake and Cool
Bake in your preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes until the center is set and no longer gooey. Once baked, remove from oven and let cool before cutting into squares and serving.
Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Brownies!
How to Serve Pumpkin Brownies Recipe
These pumpkin brownies are delicious on their own, but serving them in creative ways can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some fun serving suggestions to try.
With Whipped Cream
- Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for a light and airy contrast to the fudgy brownies.
A Scoop of Ice Cream
- Serve warm pumpkin brownies with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce
- Enhance the chocolate flavor by drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the brownies before serving.
Sprinkled with Nuts
- Top with chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and nutty flavor.
Fresh Berries on the Side
- Pair with fresh raspberries or strawberries to add a fruity freshness that cuts through the richness.
Dusting of Powdered Sugar
- Finish off with a light dusting of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance and sweetness.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Brownies Recipe
To ensure your pumpkin brownies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
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Use room temperature ingredients: This helps to create a smoother batter and ensures even mixing.
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Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to dense brownies.
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Check for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
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Cool completely before cutting: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan, as this helps them set up nicely for clean slices.
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Store properly: Keep leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Brownies Recipe
Pairing your pumpkin brownies with complementary side dishes can create an exciting dessert spread. Here are some perfect options:
-
Vanilla Ice Cream
A classic choice that adds creaminess and balances the flavors of pumpkin and chocolate. -
Caramel Sauce
Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the brownies for an extra layer of sweetness and richness. -
Chai Tea
The spices in chai tea complement the pumpkin flavor beautifully, making it a cozy pairing. -
Fresh Fruit Salad
A mix of seasonal fruits can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich brownie texture. -
Spiced Tea Cakes
Lightly spiced cakes can enhance the overall fall theme when served alongside. -
Cheesecake Bites
Mini cheesecake bites add variety and richness that pairs well with the pumpkin flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can lead to perfect pumpkin brownies. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Not using room temperature ingredients – Using cold ingredients, like cream cheese and eggs, can prevent a smooth mixture. Always let them sit at room temperature before mixing.
- Overmixing the batter – Mixing too much can lead to tough brownies. Stir until just combined for that fudgy texture.
- Skipping the cooling time – Cutting into brownies right after baking can make them fall apart. Allow them to cool in the pan before slicing.
- Incorrect oven temperature – An oven that’s too hot or too cold can ruin your brownies. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
- Not measuring accurately – Inaccurate measurements of ingredients can drastically affect the outcome. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store pumpkin brownies in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Pumpkin Brownies Recipe
- Wrap brownies tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Pumpkin Brownies Recipe
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave – Heat individual brownies on medium power for 15-20 seconds.
- Stovetop – Place a brownie in a pan over low heat, covering it with a lid until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the pumpkin brownies recipe that might help you.
What is the best way to store pumpkin brownies?
The best way is to keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze them for longer storage.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin, but make sure it is cooked and pureed smoothly before adding it to your mixture.
How do I customize this Pumpkin Brownies Recipe?
You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even swirl in caramel for added flavor and texture.
How long do these pumpkin brownies last?
In the refrigerator, they last about 5 days, while frozen ones are best enjoyed within 3 months.
Final Thoughts
These pumpkin brownies are not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize them with various mix-ins or toppings according to your taste. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delightful treat perfect for any occasion!
Pumpkin Brownies
Indulge in the ultimate fall treat with these Pumpkin Brownies! Combining fudgy chocolate brownie goodness with a creamy pumpkin swirl, this delightful dessert is perfect for cozy gatherings or festive celebrations. Easy to prepare and bursting with rich flavors, these brownies promise to impress family and friends alike. The contrast between the smooth cream cheese and pumpkin mixture and the dense brownie base creates a heavenly experience that’s hard to resist. Whether enjoyed on their own or dressed up with toppings, these pumpkin brownies are sure to become a seasonal favorite!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 16 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
- ⅔ cup pumpkin puree
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 18.3 ounces fudge brownie mix
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly spray an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, beat together cream cheese, pumpkin puree, one egg, granulated sugar, pumpkin pie spice, ground cinnamon, and kosher salt until smooth; set aside.
- Prepare the fudge brownie mix according to package instructions. Spread ⅔ of the brownie batter into the prepared pan.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the brownie batter.
- Spoon the remaining brownie batter over the top and swirl together using a toothpick.
- Bake for about 35-40 minutes until set. Allow cooling before cutting into squares.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (approx. 50g)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
