As the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisper, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of pumpkin wafting through your kitchen. These Pumpkin Brownies combine the rich, fudgy texture of traditional brownies with the warm, spicy flavors of pumpkin pie, making them the perfect treat for autumn. Whether you’re looking to impress at a fall gathering or simply craving a seasonal dessert, these pumpkin brownies are sure to hit the spot. Let’s dive into the recipe and see how to create these delectable treats!
Who is This Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves the flavors of fall and enjoys baking. It’s great for families, as kids and adults alike will enjoy these brownies. If you’re a fan of pumpkin spice and chocolate, these brownies will quickly become a favorite. They’re ideal for holiday parties, potlucks, or a cozy night in with a warm beverage. Plus, they’re easy to make and can be adapted to suit different dietary needs.
Why This Recipe is Great
The combination of chocolate and pumpkin creates a unique and irresistible flavor profile. The fudgy texture of the brownies pairs perfectly with the spiced pumpkin swirl, offering a delightful contrast in every bite. These brownies are also incredibly versatile – you can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even a cream cheese swirl for extra decadence. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to use up any leftover pumpkin puree you might have from other fall recipes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
- 8×8 inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Oven
Step-by-Step Procedure
Prepping the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to make it easier to lift the brownies out later. Lightly grease the parchment paper with cooking spray or butter.
Making the Brownie Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking after each addition until the mixture is smooth.
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in dense brownies.
Creating the Pumpkin Swirl
In a small bowl, mix together the cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Take about 1/2 cup of the brownie batter and mix it with the spice mixture. This will be used to create the pumpkin swirl.
Assembling the Brownies
Pour the remaining brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Dollop the spiced pumpkin batter on top in several spots. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the two batters together, creating a marbled effect.
Baking the Brownies
Bake the brownies in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake, as this can dry out the brownies.
Cooling and Serving
Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan. Cut into squares and enjoy!
Tips and Variations
- Add-ins: Stir in chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit for added texture and flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these brownies gluten-free.
- Cream Cheese Swirl: Mix 4 oz of softened cream cheese with 1/4 cup sugar and 1 tsp vanilla extract. Dollop this mixture along with the spiced pumpkin batter for an extra creamy swirl.
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, place the container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze the brownies for up to 3 months – just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag.
Food and Drink Pairings
These pumpkin brownies pair wonderfully with a cup of hot coffee or a glass of cold milk. For an extra indulgent treat, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They also complement fall-themed drinks like pumpkin spice lattes or chai tea.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
A: Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Just roast or steam the pumpkin, then puree it until smooth. Make sure to drain any excess water to avoid making the batter too wet.
Q: Can I make these brownies vegan?
A: Absolutely! Substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water per egg) and use dairy-free chocolate chips. Ensure all other ingredients are vegan-friendly as well.
Q: How can I make the brownies extra fudgy?
A: For extra fudgy brownies, reduce the flour to 3/4 cup and add an extra 1/4 cup of cocoa powder. You can also underbake them slightly to retain more moisture.
Conclusion
There you have it – a delicious and easy recipe for pumpkin brownies that are perfect for fall. These brownies are a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of the season and are sure to be a hit at any gathering. We hope you enjoy baking and sharing them as much as we do.
