If you’re looking for the perfect treat to bridge the gap between cozy autumn and rich chocolaty goodness, look no further than these Pumpkin Brownies. Picture a decadent swirl of fudgy brownie and spiced pumpkin—each bite is a blend of nostalgia and festive flair, making it the ultimate dessert for cool nights, Thanksgiving tables, or any random Tuesday when you crave something special. This irresistible mashup brings together all the flavors you love in an easy, crowd-pleasing bar, so get ready to create some sweet, swirled magic!
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Brownie Batter:
- 1 box (18 oz) brownie mix plus ingredients listed on the package
Pumpkin Swirl:
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
How to Make Pumpkin Brownies
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Preheat
Set yourself up for success by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and line it with parchment paper—this simple step ensures your Pumpkin Brownies lift out easily, leaving every swirl intact. It also makes cleanup way less of a chore!
Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter
In a large bowl, prepare the brownie batter using your mix and the ingredients listed on the box. Stir just until everything’s combined; overmixing can make brownies tough. Pour about three-quarters of the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it out into an even base for all those gorgeous pumpkin swirls to come.
Step 3: Mix Up the Pumpkin Layer
In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and nutmeg until the mixture is smooth and vibrant. This aromatic blend brings autumn’s best flavors right into your brownies.
Step 4: Assemble and Marble
Dollop the spiced pumpkin mixture over the brownie base in several big spoonfuls. Then top with the reserved brownie batter in a few more dollops. Grab a butter knife and gently swirl the two together, creating delicious ribbons and pockets of pumpkin throughout the brownies. Don’t over-swirl—you want distinct layers for that classic marbled effect.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know your Pumpkin Brownies are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let them cool completely in the pan, which helps the flavors settle and makes slicing easier.
How to Serve Pumpkin Brownies
Garnishes
A dusting of powdered sugar or an extra sprinkle of chocolate chips adds a touch of drama and texture. If you want to really impress, a light drizzle of caramel or even a dollop of whipped cream can make your Pumpkin Brownies bakery-worthy.
Side Dishes
Pair these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a warm mug of spiced chai latte for cozy comfort. A few fresh berries on the side make a pleasantly tart contrast to the rich, sweet flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your Pumpkin Brownies into fun shapes using seasonal cookie cutters, or layer cubes into parfait glasses with whipped cream and extra drizzles of chocolate sauce for an easy no-fuss trifle. For parties, arrange them on a platter and scatter with edible gold leaves or autumn sprinkles to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place leftover Pumpkin Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If your kitchen is warm or humid, consider refrigerating to keep them extra fresh and fudgy.
Freezing
Pumpkin Brownies freeze beautifully! Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then pop them all into a freezer bag or container. Stash in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature when those cravings hit.
Reheating
For that just-baked taste, warm individual brownies in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds. If you’re reheating a larger batch, cover with foil and warm in a low oven until soft and fragrant.
FAQs
Can I make Pumpkin Brownies from scratch instead of using a mix?
Absolutely! While using a box mix saves time, feel free to use your favorite homemade brownie recipe as the base. Just substitute it in step two, and follow the rest of the instructions for the pumpkin swirl.
Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?
It’s best to stick with pure pumpkin puree for these brownies, because pumpkin pie filling is already sweetened and spiced; it can throw off the balance of flavors and sweetness in your swirl layer.
How do I know when my Pumpkin Brownies are done baking?
Keep an eye on the edges—they’ll look set, while the center may still be slightly soft. A toothpick or skewer should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter, to ensure a fudgy but fully baked result.
Are Pumpkin Brownies vegetarian?
Yes! As long as your brownie mix doesn’t contain any hidden animal products (always check the label), these brownies are perfectly vegetarian-friendly.
What’s the best way to get perfect swirls in my Pumpkin Brownies?
The trick is to use a thin knife or skewer and gently drag it through the two batters in a zigzag or figure-eight pattern. Don’t overdo it—swirl just enough to mix the two layers but still keep distinct ribbons of pumpkin and chocolate.
Final Thoughts
Pumpkin Brownies are proof that fall flavors and irresistible chocolate are a match made in dessert heaven. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or your own sweet self, there’s nothing quite as satisfying as pulling this marbled treat from the oven. I truly hope you’ll give them a try and discover your new favorite way to celebrate the season!
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Pumpkin Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with these delicious Pumpkin Brownies. A perfect blend of rich, fudgy chocolate and warm pumpkin spices in every bite!
Ingredients
Brownie Batter:
- 1 box (18 oz) brownie mix plus ingredients listed on the package
Pumpkin Swirl:
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare pan: Preheat oven to 350°F and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- Prepare brownie batter: Mix brownie batter according to package directions and pour 3/4 into the pan.
- Make pumpkin swirl: In a bowl, combine pumpkin puree, sugar, spices until smooth. Spoon over brownie batter.
- Layer and swirl: Add remaining brownie batter on top. Swirl layers together with a knife for a marbled effect.
- Bake: Bake for 35-40 minutes until a toothpick comes out with few moist crumbs.
- Cool and slice: Cool completely before slicing into squares.
Notes
- For a more chocolatey version, add chocolate chips on top before baking.
- You can also make the brownies from scratch instead of using a mix.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 21 g
- Sodium: 140 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 31 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
