There’s something magical about pumpkin season, and one of my favorite ways to celebrate it is with pumpkin brownies. Imagine rich, fudgy chocolate swirled with creamy spiced pumpkin, this dessert is the perfect blend of cozy fall flavors and indulgent decadence. Every bite feels like autumn wrapped in chocolate.
These brownies are ideal for casual family gatherings, a Thanksgiving dessert table, or even as a quick weeknight baking project when you want a sweet treat that feels a little special. Whether you’re a pumpkin spice enthusiast or someone who simply loves brownies, this recipe will win you over in no time.
Table of contents
How to Make the Pumpkin Brownies: Recipe Card
Pumpkin Brownies Recipe
12
servings15
minutes40
minutes230
kcalRich, fudgy chocolate swirled with creamy spiced pumpkin makes these pumpkin brownies a cozy fall dessert you’ll want to bake again and again.
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Ingredients
1 cup pumpkin puree
1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1/4 tsp ginger
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Directions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
- In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time.
- Divide the batter into two bowls. In the first, mix in the cocoa powder and half the flour, baking powder, and salt. This will be your chocolate base.
- In the second bowl, combine pumpkin puree with the remaining flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Mix until smooth.
- Spread half the chocolate batter into the pan, then layer the pumpkin batter on top. Finish with dollops of the remaining chocolate batter.
- Use a knife to gently swirl the two batters together for a marbled effect.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips on top if you’re using them.
- Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
- Cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.
Notes
- Use canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for best results.
- Don’t over-swirl; you want clear layers of chocolate and pumpkin.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Nutrition Facts
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 21g
- Protein: 3g
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The Secret to Perfect Pumpkin Brownies
What makes these pumpkin brownies stand out is the balance of flavors and textures. The chocolate layer is dense, moist, and intensely rich, while the pumpkin swirl adds a lighter, creamy element infused with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Together, they create a contrast that’s far from your average brownie.
Another reason this recipe works so well is its flexibility. You can use canned pumpkin puree for convenience, or roast and mash fresh pumpkin for an even richer flavor. You can also adjust the spices to your liking, more cinnamon for warmth, or a touch of ginger for brightness.
For those who love experimenting, this recipe can easily be made gluten-free by using almond flour or a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. It also adapts beautifully to reduced sugar or dairy-free options, making it a crowd-pleaser for different dietary needs.
Easy Prep Steps Before You Bake
Making brownies is always smoother when you do a little prep first. For these pumpkin brownies, here’s what helps:
- Measure out your ingredients in advance, especially the pumpkin puree and cocoa powder, so mixing is quick and seamless.
- Line your baking pan with parchment paper, it makes cleanup a breeze and ensures the brownies lift out easily.
- Preheat the oven before you start, since brownie batters should go in immediately after mixing for best texture.
- Have your spices ready to go. Pre-mixing cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger in a small bowl makes the process more efficient.
Tips for the Fudgiest Pumpkin Brownies
Here are my favorite tips to make your pumpkin brownies irresistible every single time:
- Use room temperature eggs for better mixing and a smoother batter.
- Don’t overmix the chocolate layer, this keeps the brownies fudgy instead of cakey.
- Swirl the pumpkin mixture gently into the chocolate batter for that signature marbled look.
- Bake until just set; the center should still be slightly gooey when you pull it out.
- Let the brownies cool completely before cutting. This helps them set and makes clean slices.
- Store in the fridge for a firmer texture or at room temperature for extra gooeyness.
Fun Ways to Customize Your Brownies
1. Cream Cheese Pumpkin Brownies
Swirl in a cream cheese mixture with the pumpkin layer for an extra tangy richness. It adds a cheesecake-like texture that pairs perfectly with the chocolate base.
2. Gluten-Free Pumpkin Brownies
Swap out regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend or almond flour. The result is a slightly nuttier flavor that still holds up beautifully.
3. Vegan Pumpkin Brownies
Replace eggs with flaxseed eggs (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water per egg) and use dairy-free chocolate chips. The brownies stay fudgy, while the pumpkin keeps them moist.
4. Spiced Pumpkin Brownies
Enhance the pumpkin batter with extra spice, think cardamom, cloves, or even pumpkin pie spice. It creates a warm, aromatic dessert perfect for fall gatherings.
5. Nutty Pumpkin Brownies
Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the chocolate layer for extra crunch and depth. Nuts also balance the sweetness with a toasty bite.
6. Healthier Pumpkin Brownies
Reduce the sugar slightly and substitute part of the butter with Greek yogurt. You’ll still get fudgy brownies, but with a lighter touch.
Another tasty variation without pumpkin that I would like you to try is the Hershey Brownie Recipe Copycat
FAQs about these Fall Brownies
Yes. Just roast, puree, and strain fresh pumpkin until smooth. The texture should be similar to canned puree.
Check with a toothpick. It should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
The balance of butter, sugar, and eggs. Avoid overbaking and keep the wet-to-dry ratio precise.
They have a chocolate-forward flavor with a subtle spiced pumpkin swirl.
A Fall Dessert to Remember
Pumpkin brownies bring together the best of both worlds: rich chocolate and cozy pumpkin spice. They’re easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and guaranteed to impress family or guests. The fudgy chocolate base with a creamy pumpkin swirl is a pairing that feels indulgent yet seasonal.
If you’re looking for a dessert that celebrates fall without being overly complicated, this is the one. Try serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel for an extra treat.
For more fall-inspired bakes, you might also enjoy the Pumpkin Crunch Recipe!
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