The BEST Pumpkin Brownies

These fudgy pumpkin brownies are the perfect fall-inspired dessert.

Between the decadent chocolatey goodness and warm spices, every mouthful is an autumnal dream.

You’ll make two batters and swirl them together before baking. And I promise it’s so worth the extra dishes!

If you’re a fan of sweater weather, flannel shirts, and pumpkin spice lattes, you’ll love these pumpkin brownies.

Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Brownies

Seasonal Spices: Is it even fall without pumpkin spice? And it pairs so well with the rich chocolate!

Terrific Taste & Texture: The brownies are insanely fudgy and the pumpkin layer is rich and creamy. Together, they’re simply delightful.

Visual Appeal: The marbled effect from swirling the pumpkin and brownie batters together results in a stunning, Instagram-worthy dessert that’s sure to impress.

Crowd-Pleaser: With the comforting taste of chocolate paired with the aromatic warmth of pumpkin, these brownies will be a hit at any event or family gathering.

Ingredients

• Pumpkin Puree: Brings autumn flavor and creamy texture. Be sure it’s puree, not pumpkin pie filling.

• Pumpkin Spice: It’s easy to use one blend, but you can easily use a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and allspice if you want it more tailored.

• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Delivers deep, rich flavor without added sweetness.

• All-Purpose Flour: The reliable foundation that gives structure to your brownies.

• Salt & Vanilla: For balance and sweet warmth.

• Unsalted Butter & Oil: To keep the brownies nice and fudgy.

• Granulated Sugar: For sweetness.

• Eggs: The binding heroes. You’ll use a whole egg and a couple of yolks.

• Cream Cheese: For the pumpkin layer. It makes it almost cheesecake-like.

• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Pockets of melty goodness.

How to Make Pumpkin Brownies

I seriously can’t overstate how amazing these brownies are.

The bottom layer is moist, chocolatey, and studded with melty chocolate chips for extra indulgence.

On top, a creamy pumpkin layer swirls through, infused with aromatic spices that’ll make your kitchen smell like a cozy fall afternoon.

But I swear, it couldn’t be easier to recreate!

1. GREASE a 9×9-inch baking dish and line it with parchment paper. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. MELT the butter in 20-second intervals, stirring between each. Then immediately whisk in the oil, sugar, egg, yolks, and vanilla.

3. SIFT the flour, cocoa powder, and salt, and mix into the wet. Add the chocolate chips and mix until smooth.

4. BEAT the cream cheese and sugar until fluffy. Blend in the egg, pumpkin spice, vanilla, and stir in the pumpkin.

5. SPREAD 3/4 of the brownie batter in the pan. Spoon the pumpkin layer on top, followed by the remaining brownie batter. Swirl with a knife.

6. BAKE for 45-50 minutes, until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let them cool completely in the pan.

7. SLICE, serve, and enjoy!

Tips For the Best Pumpkin Brownies

These brownies are the perfect treat to curl up with on a chilly evening, paired with a steaming mug of apple cider or your favorite latte.

Check out these tips, then let’s get to it.

• Quality matters. Use high-quality cocoa powder and 100% pure pumpkin puree for the best flavor.

• Enhance pumpkin flavor. Instead of pumpkin spice, use 1 tsp cinnamon and 1/4 tsp each nutmeg, ginger, allspice, and cloves. Tweak the blend to your preferences.

• Don’t overmix. Mix the wet and dry ingredients separately and gently fold them together to avoid overmixing, which can lead to tough brownies. You can mix everything by hand.

• Layering technique. Spoon the pumpkin in dollops and then spoon the rest of the brownie batter on top. Don’t spread them evenly. Swirl them gently with a toothpick. This helps prevent the layers from mixing too much and maintains the distinct flavors.

• Check for doneness. A few moist crumbs on a toothpick are okay for fudgy brownies, but if it comes out wet, bake for a few more minutes.

• Cooling time. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing. This helps them set properly and prevents them from falling apart when cut.

How to Store

Your kitchen will smell amazing while these beauties are baking. It’s like bottling up the essence of fall and releasing it into your home.

I’ve already had requests from friends and family for the recipe, and I have a feeling these brownies will become a staple at our autumn gatherings.

Luckily, they store pretty well.

To Store: Place cooled brownies in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. Keep at room temperature for 2-3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

To Freeze: Wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months, thawing in the refrigerator before serving.

More Decadent Brownies You Have to Try

White Chocolate Brownies
Texas Sheet Cake Brownies
Nutella Brownies
Peanut Butter Brownies