There’s a certain magic in the air when autumn leaves start to fall, and it’s calling for cozy evenings and heartwarming treats. One of my all-time favorites is these rich, decadent Pumpkin Brownies. Seriously, the layers of fudge-like brownie and spiced pumpkin filling are an irresistible combination, and the warm spices create a truly delightful fall experience. Let’s get baking!
This Pumpkin Brownie recipe is as simple as it is scrumptious. It’s perfect for novice bakers and seasoned pros alike. Whether you’re baking for a Thanksgiving feast, a Halloween party, or simply a cozy night in, these brownies are the answer. Get ready to fall head over heels in love with these autumnal delights!
Why You’ll Love It
These Pumpkin Brownies aren’t just another dessert; they’re a full-blown autumnal experience. The blend of rich, fudgy brownie and spiced pumpkin filling creates a truly unforgettable flavor combination. They’re easy to make, perfect for sharing, and are sure to disappear quickly! Whether you savor them warm from the oven or enjoy them at room temperature, they offer a comforting delight in every bite. The warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg create a lovely aroma that fills your kitchen and your heart with cozy fall vibes.
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Pumpkin Brownies
- Total Time: 47-50 mins
- Yield: 9 servings
Description
Indulge in the ultimate autumn treat with these decadent Pumpkin Brownies. The rich, fudgy brownie base pairs perfectly with the spiced pumpkin filling, creating a symphony of flavors. Easy to make and perfect for sharing, these brownies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- ½ cup melted butter
- 1 cup high-quality chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose or gluten-free flour
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice
- ⅔ cup pumpkin purée
- 2 tbsp avocado oil (or vegetable oil)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Melt butter and chocolate chips together until smooth.
- Whisk eggs and sugar vigorously for 3 minutes until light and frothy.
- Add vanilla extract and flour to the egg mixture. Stir until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly into two bowls.
- In one bowl, combine melted chocolate mixture and cocoa powder.
- In the other bowl, combine pumpkin purée, oil, and pumpkin pie spice.
- Pour chocolate batter into the prepared pan. Drop spoonfuls of pumpkin batter on top and swirl gently.
- Bake for 27–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
- Cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
For a richer chocolate flavor, use dark chocolate chips. Don’t overmix the batter, as this can result in tough brownies. If you prefer a more intense pumpkin flavor, increase the amount of pumpkin pie spice to 1 teaspoon. A pinch of salt can enhance the flavors. Let the brownies cool completely before cutting for cleaner slices.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 27-30 mins
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredient Lowdown
Before we begin, let’s get acquainted with the stars of our show, the ingredients that come together to make these decadent Pumpkin Brownies a reality. I recommend using high-quality chocolate chips—they make a world of difference in flavor! Here’s a glance at what you’ll need:
- Chocolate Delights: ½ cup melted butter, 1 cup high-quality chocolate chips, 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- Sweet Foundation: 1 cup granulated sugar
- Binding Agents: 2 eggs, 1 cup all-purpose or gluten-free flour
- Flavor Enhancers: 1 tsp vanilla extract, ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice
- Pumpkin Magic: ⅔ cup pumpkin purée, 2 tbsp avocado oil (or vegetable oil)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the melted butter and chocolate chips. Stir until smooth and completely melted. If needed, microwave in short bursts, stirring between each, until fully melted.
Step 3: Whisk the Eggs and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar vigorously for about 3 minutes. The mixture should become light, frothy, and pale.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add the vanilla extract and flour to the egg mixture. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Divide the Batter
Divide the batter evenly into two separate bowls.
Step 6: Prepare the Chocolate Batter
Pour the melted chocolate mixture and cocoa powder into one of the bowls. Stir until well combined.
Step 7: Prepare the Pumpkin Batter
In the second bowl, add the pumpkin purée, avocado oil (or vegetable oil), and pumpkin pie spice. Stir until everything is well incorporated.
Step 8: Layer and Swirl
Pour the chocolate batter into the prepared pan. Drop spoonfuls of the pumpkin batter evenly over the chocolate layer. Using a knife or toothpick, gently swirl the two batters together, creating a marbled effect. Don’t overmix!
Step 9: Bake and Cool
Bake for 27–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs. These brownies are meant to be gooey, so don’t overbake them. Once baked, let the brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving.
Better-Than-Grandma Tips
Here are a few extra tips to help you achieve pumpkin brownie perfection:
- Chocolate Quality Matters: Opt for high-quality chocolate chips for the best flavor and melt. I’m a sucker for dark chocolate in these brownies, but semi-sweet works wonderfully too.
- Smooth and Melted: Make sure your butter and chocolate chips are fully melted and combined for a smooth, glossy batter. If needed, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until smooth.
- Flour Power: All-purpose flour works well, but you can also substitute a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend if needed. Check our other dessert recipes for more ideas!
- Swirl It Up: Have fun with the swirling! The more you swirl the pumpkin mixture into the chocolate batter, the more evenly distributed the flavor will be throughout the brownies. Less swirling creates distinct pockets of pumpkin, which is equally delightful!
Flavor Twists
These Pumpkin Brownies are fantastic as is, but feel free to customize them with your favorite flavors. Here are a few ideas to spark your culinary creativity:
- Nutty Delight: Add a cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for added crunch and flavor. Toasting the nuts beforehand enhances their nutty aroma.
- Chocolate Chunk Craving: Fold in a handful of semi-sweet chocolate chunks to amplify the chocolate experience. White chocolate chunks would also be delightful. For some of our favorite breakfast recipes, click on our Breakfast page.
- Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices. A pinch of cinnamon, ginger, or cardamom can complement the pumpkin spice beautifully.
- Cream Cheese Swirl: For an extra layer of richness, swirl in a mixture of softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a touch of vanilla extract.
How long do these pumpkin brownies last?
These brownies are best enjoyed within 3 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator. You can also freeze them for longer storage, up to 2 months.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes! For gluten-free brownies, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1-to-1 baking blend. Ensure your cocoa powder and any other additions are also gluten-free.
Can I add toppings to these brownies?
Absolutely! Try adding a swirl of cream cheese frosting, a sprinkle of chopped nuts, or a drizzle of caramel sauce to enhance the flavor and texture.
How do I know when the brownies are perfectly baked?
The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the pan you use. Start checking for doneness around the 27-minute mark. Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out with moist crumbs, they’re ready.
How to Serve
These Pumpkin Brownies are heavenly on their own, but a few simple additions can make them even more special. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream is the classic choice. You could also add a drizzle of caramel sauce, a sprinkle of chopped nuts, or a dusting of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. And for a cozy fall beverage, pair them with a warm mug of apple cider! See our Lunch category for more ideas.
That’s a Wrap
These Pumpkin Brownies are a delicious treat for fall gatherings or cozy nights at home. They’re sure to become a family favorite, and you can adapt them to your preferences with the variations above. Let me know in the comments below how you enjoy them! Don’t forget to share the recipe with friends and family on Facebook, Pinterest, or Instagram. And for more delicious desserts, explore our Desserts category.
