Easy Pumpkin Brownies

When fall arrives, with its cozy sweaters and pumpkin spice everything, there’s nothing quite like a warm, fudgy brownie to complete the scene. And if that brownie happens to be swirled with a creamy layer of pumpkin cheesecake? Well, that’s just pure autumnal bliss! These Easy Pumpkin Brownies are a family tradition, perfect for everything from casual weeknights to holiday celebrations. Let’s get baking and make some memories!

These Easy Pumpkin Brownies are more than just a dessert; they’re an experience. Imagine sinking your teeth into a rich, fudgy brownie, only to be met with a burst of creamy, spiced pumpkin cheesecake. It’s like two desserts in one, and trust me, it’s heavenly. They’re surprisingly simple to make too. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is foolproof.

Why You’ll Love It

These Easy Pumpkin Brownies are a delicious way to celebrate all things fall. They are:

• Incredibly Fudgy: We’re not talking about cakey brownies here. These are rich, dense, and intensely chocolatey. Perfect for those times you want a real chocolate indulgence.
• Perfectly Spiced: The pumpkin cheesecake layer is infused with the warm, comforting spices of pumpkin pie spice. It complements the fudgy brownie base beautifully.
• Easy to Make: Despite the impressive swirl, this recipe is surprisingly simple. You can use a boxed brownie mix or your favorite from-scratch recipe, so it’s adaptable to your skill level and time constraints. Perfect for busy bakers!
• Crowd-Pleaser: These brownies are guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering, from potlucks to holiday parties. People go crazy for these, and the leftovers disappear quickly!

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What You’ll Need

For these rich pumpkin brownies, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Let’s gather our pantry staples and get ready to bake!

For the Brownie Layer:

• 1 box brownie mix (or your favorite homemade recipe)
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2/3 cup pumpkin puree (canned pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling)
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9 inch baking pan with cooking spray and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. Alternatively, you can line the pan with foil and grease it. This ensures those precious brownies will release cleanly and you won’t have any sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Brownie Batter

Prepare the brownie mix according to the package directions. If you are using a homemade brownie recipe, follow your recipe instructions.

Once the brownie batter is mixed, gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Layer

In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue beating until well combined.

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.

Add the pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice. Mix until everything is combined.

Step 4: Layer and Swirl

Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.

Gently spoon the cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter and spread it into an even layer. An offset spatula is useful for spreading the cheesecake layer neatly.

Pour the remaining brownie batter over the cheesecake layer and spread it out.

Using a knife or toothpick, swirl the brownie batter and cheesecake layers together to create a marbled effect. Don’t overmix. This marbling technique not only looks stunning but also ensures that every bite gets a delightful mix of brownie and pumpkin cheesecake.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs. Watch them carefully after the 40 minute mark so that they don’t overbake and dry out. Start checking on them earlier rather than later; it’s better to be safe than sorry!

Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.

Better-Than-Grandma Tips

• Don’t overbake! Start checking for doneness around the 40-minute mark. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs attached. If you see wet batter, they need a little more time. Overbaked brownies can turn dry and crumbly. Nobody wants that.
• Room temperature ingredients are key for the cheesecake layer, especially the cream cheese and egg. If these ingredients are too cold, it can result in a lumpy filling.
• Line your baking pan. This makes removing the brownies a breeze. Parchment paper with an overhang works best, and you can also use foil and a light coating of nonstick cooking spray.
• Make it your own! You can change up the flavor profile of these brownies in countless ways. See our variations section below for a few creative twists. Check our guide on baking pans to get the perfect size.

Flavor Twists

• Nutty Delight: Add a cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter for a satisfying crunch. The nuts add a wonderful textural element, contrasting perfectly with the soft brownies and creamy cheesecake swirl.
• Chocolate Swirl: Drizzle melted white chocolate or dark chocolate over the top of the brownies after baking for an extra dose of chocolate decadence. The contrast in chocolate flavors adds another layer of complexity to these delightful treats.
• Spice It Up: Amp up the fall flavors by adding a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg to the cheesecake layer. These warming spices enhance the pumpkin spice flavor.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: For an extra touch of creaminess, top the cooled brownies with a simple cream cheese frosting. Check out our frosting tips in our dessert guide.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg to the cheesecake layer for an extra warm spice flavor.

How to Serve

These Easy Pumpkin Brownies are delicious on their own, but why stop there? A scoop of vanilla ice cream is a classic pairing, adding a cool, creamy contrast to the warm, fudgy brownies. For a more decadent treat, try a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream. A sprinkle of chopped pecans or a dusting of powdered sugar adds a nice finishing touch. For a festive twist during the holidays, garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a few festive sprinkles. These also taste great with a glass of milk or a warm cup of coffee. Need some beverage inspiration? Check out our collection of fall drinks.

That’s a Wrap

These Easy Pumpkin Brownies are the perfect fall treat, bringing together the fudgy goodness of brownies and the creamy spice of pumpkin cheesecake. They’re great for gatherings or a cozy night in. So, grab your apron, preheat that oven, and get ready to bake up a batch of happiness! Share the joy and let me know how your pumpkin brownie adventure turns out in the comments below. Don’t forget to share the recipe love on your socials! Find me on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest for more recipe ideas and baking inspiration. Want another delicious dessert idea? You’ll love our Pumpkin Pie Bars.