One fall evening, the aroma of cinnamon and pumpkin spice filled our kitchen. My little ones were begging for a sweet treat, and I was craving something a little more special than the usual. I decided to surprise them with a delicious twist on a classic favorite: Easy Pumpkin Brownies! These brownies are a delightful combination of two beloved treats in one.
The rich, fudgy brownie base gets a boost of flavor from the creamy, spiced pumpkin cheesecake layer. It’s the ultimate fall dessert, whether you’re celebrating Halloween, preparing for a cozy Thanksgiving feast, or simply want to fill your kitchen with that comforting, autumnal aroma. This recipe is surprisingly simple, even for beginner bakers, and the end result is a beautiful swirl of brownie and pumpkin perfection. It’s like two desserts in one!
Why You’ll Love It
These Easy Pumpkin Brownies are more than just your average brownie. They’re a delicious mashup of two dessert favorites – fudgy brownies and creamy pumpkin pie – in a single, irresistible treat. Here’s why you and your family will adore this recipe:
- Unbelievably Fudgy: The brownie base provides a perfect balance of fudgy richness, giving you that satisfyingly dense and chewy texture you crave in a brownie.
- Pumpkin Spice Perfection: The pumpkin cheesecake layer offers a warm, comforting spice flavor, and the smooth, creamy texture complements the fudgy brownies perfectly.
- Easy to Make: Even if you’re a beginner baker, you can easily whip up a batch of these delicious brownies. The recipe uses simple ingredients and requires minimal effort.
- Crowd-Pleaser: These brownies are always a hit at parties and gatherings. They’re beautiful, delicious, and perfect for any fall celebration.
From the aroma of the pumpkin spice to the last fudgy bite, these Easy Pumpkin Brownies are a true treat for the senses. Get ready to fall in love with every layer!
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Easy Pumpkin Brownies
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 mins
- Yield: 16 brownies
Description
Indulge in the ultimate fall treat with these Easy Pumpkin Brownies, a delicious fusion of fudgy brownies and creamy pumpkin cheesecake. This simple recipe is perfect for any occasion, from Halloween parties to cozy Thanksgiving feasts. Surprise your loved ones with this delightful dessert that combines two favorites into one irresistible treat.
Ingredients
- 1 box brownie mix
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2/3 cup pumpkin puree
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch square pan.
- Prepare brownie mix, stir in chocolate chips.
- Beat cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla. Fold in pumpkin puree and spice.
- Spread half of brownie batter in pan, top with cheesecake filling.
- Spoon remaining brownie batter over filling, swirl together.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs.
- Cool completely before cutting and serving.
Notes
For a richer flavor, use high-quality brownie mix. Make sure your cream cheese and egg are at room temperature for a smooth cheesecake layer. Don’t overmix the cheesecake batter, as this can lead to a dense texture. Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting to prevent the cheesecake layer from cracking. For a neater presentation, score the brownies before cutting. Dust with powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 40-45 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
What You’ll Need
For these extra fudgy pumpkin brownies, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. I’ve made it even simpler by using a boxed brownie mix for the brownie base, but you can absolutely bake from scratch if you prefer! Here’s a quick rundown:
For the Brownies:
- 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 pure 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-inch square baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This will make it easy to lift the brownies out of the pan once they’re cooled.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter
Prepare the brownie mix according to the package directions. Once the batter is smooth, stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until light and fluffy. Add the granulated sugar and beat until combined. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth. Finally, gently fold in the pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 4: Layer the Brownie and Cheesecake Batter
Spread half of the brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan. Carefully spoon the cheesecake filling over the brownie batter and smooth it into an even layer with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
Step 5: Swirl and Bake
Spoon the remaining brownie batter over the cheesecake layer. Using a knife or toothpick, swirl the two batters together to create a marbled effect. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and serve. Enjoy!
Better-Than-Grandma Tips
Here are a few tips to guarantee your brownies are perfectly baked:
- Don’t overbake: Start checking for doneness around the 40-minute mark. Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with just a few moist crumbs attached. If it’s completely clean, they’re overbaked. If it’s gooey, give them a few more minutes.
- Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and egg are at room temperature to ensure a smooth and creamy cheesecake layer.
- Cooling is key: Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting and serving. This will help the cheesecake layer set properly. You can even chill them in the refrigerator for an extra-firm finish. Looking for other dessert inspiration? Check out our collection of Desserts.
Flavor Twists
Want to try something new? Here are some ways to customize these Easy Pumpkin Brownies:
- Chocolate Lovers: Add a swirl of melted dark chocolate or white chocolate to the cheesecake layer, or use milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for an extra boost of sweetness. Check our our other amazing dessert recipes for more ideas.
- Nutty Delight: Fold chopped pecans, walnuts, or your favorite nuts into the brownie batter for added texture and flavor. Top with some extra chopped pecans before serving.
- Spiced Perfection: Add a pinch of ground cloves, nutmeg, or cardamom to the cheesecake mixture for a warm, spiced flavor. You can also try a combination of different spices or use chai spice blend.
- Cream Cheese Swirl: Instead of making a full cheesecake layer, simply drop dollops of softened cream cheese on top of the brownie batter and swirl it in for a delightful cream cheese surprise.
No matter which variations you choose, these Easy Pumpkin Brownies are sure to become a fall favorite in your house!
Can I use a homemade brownie recipe?
Yes, you can certainly use a homemade brownie recipe instead of the box mix. I recommend my go-to brownie recipe from my [Peanut Butter Brownies](https://paisleyrecipes.com/peanut-butter-brownies) or [Cheesecake Brownies](https://paisleyrecipes.com/cheesecake-brownies) posts. They are rich, fudgy, and will pair perfectly with the pumpkin cheesecake layer.
Can I freeze these brownies?
Absolutely! These brownies freeze beautifully. After they’ve cooled completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator.
How should I store leftover pumpkin brownies?
I recommend storing leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cheesecake layer will last longer in the refrigerator.
Can I use different spices instead of pumpkin pie spice?
While pumpkin pie spice is traditional, you can customize the spice blend to your liking. Try using a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. You can also add a pinch of cardamom or allspice for a unique twist.
How to Serve
These Easy Pumpkin Brownies are delicious on their own, but a few simple additions can truly elevate them to star status. A scoop of vanilla ice cream is a classic choice, providing a cool contrast to the warm, spiced brownies. A dollop of freshly whipped cream also adds a light and airy touch. For a richer treat, drizzle some caramel sauce or chocolate ganache over the top. If you’re looking for a fun twist, add a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts for some extra crunch! Serve these at your holiday gathering and enjoy alongside some of our delicious Dinner recipes for the complete holiday experience!
That’s a Wrap
These Easy Pumpkin Brownies are the perfect fall treat. They’re rich, fudgy, and have a delightful pumpkin spice flavor that will warm you right up. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Halloween, or any autumn gathering, these brownies are sure to impress! I can’t wait to hear how you and your loved ones enjoy them. Don’t forget to share your baking adventures with me on social media – find me on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. For more delicious dessert inspiration, check out our Desserts category.
