There’s nothing quite like the aroma of warm pumpkin brownies wafting through your kitchen. Picture this: a moist, fudgy square of chocolatey goodness, with hints of pumpkin spice that makes you feel all cozy inside. Each bite melts in your mouth, leaving behind a trail of rich flavors and an irresistible urge for just one more piece.
These pumpkin brownies are not just a treat; they’re a hug in dessert form! I remember the first time I made them for my family during a chilly autumn evening. The moment those brownies hit the table, my kids practically inhaled them, their eyes lighting up like little jack-o’-lanterns. Perfect for fall gatherings or simply as a delightful afternoon snack, these brownies promise to be your new favorite indulgence.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These pumpkin brownies are incredibly easy to whip up, perfect for even the busiest bakers
- Their rich chocolate flavor combined with subtle pumpkin notes creates a heavenly taste experience
- Visually, they boast a gorgeous golden-brown hue that’s sure to impress guests
- Versatile enough for any occasion, they can be served warm with ice cream or enjoyed cold straight from the fridge
One memorable Thanksgiving, I brought these brownies to dinner and they vanished faster than you can say “pumpkin spice latte.” My aunt insisted on taking some home, claiming she needed her “pumpkin brownie fix” throughout the week.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Canned Pumpkin Puree: Make sure it’s pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for best results.
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Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Use high-quality cocoa powder for that deep chocolate flavor.
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Granulated Sugar: This sweetens the brownies perfectly while creating that lovely chewy texture.
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Brown Sugar: It adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor that pairs wonderfully with pumpkin.
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Butter: Melted butter gives these brownies richness and enhances their fudgy texture.
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Eggs: They bind everything together beautifully and give the brownies structure.
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Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla adds depth to the overall flavor profile.
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Baking Powder: This helps the brownies rise and achieve that perfect texture.
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Salt: Just a pinch helps balance the sweetness and enhance all the flavors.
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Pumpkin Pie Spice: This magical blend brings out all those cozy fall flavors in every bite.
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Chocolate Chips (optional): For an extra chocolatey kick, add semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips into the batter!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Your Pan: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Melt Butter and Mix Sugars: In a large bowl, melt your butter in the microwave until it’s completely liquefied. Stir in both granulated sugar and brown sugar until well combined and slightly glossy.
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Crack in two eggs one at a time into your buttery mixture; whisk vigorously after each addition. Then mix in that heavenly vanilla extract until everything is smooth.
Incorporate Pumpkin Puree: Fold in one cup of canned pumpkin puree gently into the mixture; this is where you’ll start to feel autumn in the air!
Add Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, and spices. Gradually fold this dry mix into your wet ingredients until just combined—be careful not to overmix!
Add Chocolate Chips: If you’re feeling indulgent (and who isn’t), now’s the time to stir in those chocolate chips! Gently fold them into the batter to distribute evenly without deflating it.
Bake Your Brownies: Pour your luscious brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs attached—not gooey batter!
Now that you’ve baked these delightful treats, let them cool slightly before cutting them into squares. Trust me; it’s worth waiting for that first bite! Enjoy sharing—or hiding—these decadent little squares of happiness from everyone else!
You Must Know
- Pumpkin brownies are not just a seasonal treat; they’re a delightful combination of moistness and flavor
- The rich aroma of spices fills your kitchen, making it feel like a warm hug
- Plus, they are an excellent way to sneak in some veggies!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix wet ingredients first, then incorporate dry ones for even blending. Bake for about 25-30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out pumpkin puree for sweet potato or add chocolate chips for an extra layer of decadence. A sprinkle of sea salt on top enhances the flavors beautifully.
Storing & Reheating
Store your pumpkin brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week, or freeze for up to three months.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh pumpkin puree for maximum flavor and moisture
- Ensure your brownies cool completely before cutting; this prevents them from becoming crumbly
- Don’t skip the spices; they elevate the taste and make your home smell divine!
Sometimes I whip up these pumpkin brownies during family gatherings, and they always disappear faster than you can say “pumpkin spice.” The smiles on my loved ones’ faces are worth every ounce of effort I put in!
FAQ
Can I use canned pumpkin for the pumpkin brownies?
Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree is perfect for this recipe and saves time.
How can I tell when the brownies are done?
Insert a toothpick; if it comes out clean or with few crumbs, they’re ready.
What can I substitute if I’m out of eggs?
Try using applesauce or flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg replacement.
Pumpkin Brownies
Indulge in the warmth of autumn with these decadent pumpkin brownies. Moist and fudgy, they combine rich chocolate flavors with cozy pumpkin spice, making them the perfect treat for any fall gathering or a comforting afternoon snack. Simple to prepare, these brownies promise to delight your family and friends with every bite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 16 brownies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, melt the butter in the microwave. Stir in granulated sugar and brown sugar until glossy.
- Add eggs one at a time, whisking after each addition, then mix in vanilla extract.
- Gently fold in the pumpkin puree.
- In another bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, and pumpkin pie spice together.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. If desired, add chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean or with moist crumbs.
- Allow cooling before cutting into squares.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie (45g)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
