Pumpkin Brownies

If you’re looking to enjoy the cozy flavors of fall, try these rich and fudgy Pumpkin Brownies! Combining the warm spice of pumpkin with the irresistible taste of chocolate, these brownies are the perfect seasonal dessert. Whether you’re hosting a Halloween party, a Thanksgiving feast, or just want a comforting treat on a chilly evening, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pumpkin brownies offer a unique twist on classic chocolate brownies by adding the earthy sweetness and moist texture of pumpkin puree. Not only do they add a layer of flavor, but they’re also more nutritious, adding fiber and vitamin A from the pumpkin.

Ingredients for Pumpkin Brownies

To get started, gather these ingredients:

• 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup melted butter (or coconut oil for a dairy-free option)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional for added warmth)
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips or chunks (for an extra chocolatey taste)

How to Make Pumpkin Brownies

this recipe

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious batch of pumpkin brownies:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Prepare the Batter:

• In a mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
• In another bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

1. Combine Ingredients: Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the brownies tender. Fold in the chocolate chips or chunks.
2. Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
3. Cool and Serve: Let the brownies cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before slicing. For an added treat, top them with whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Brownies

• Use Pure Pumpkin Puree: Make sure you’re using pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices.
• Add Extra Chocolate: Sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top before baking for an extra gooey texture.
• Make it Vegan: Substitute eggs with flaxseed eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) and use coconut oil instead of butter.

Serving and Storage Tips for Pumpkin Brownies

Serving Tips:

1. Perfect Pairings: Enhance the experience by serving pumpkin brownies with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A drizzle of caramel sauce or chocolate syrup adds an extra layer of indulgence.
2. Presentation: Cut brownies into uniform squares for a neat presentation. You can dust them with powdered sugar or cocoa powder for an elegant touch.
3. Garnish: Consider adding a sprinkle of crushed nuts (like walnuts or pecans) on top or a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the flavor profile and add texture.
4. Temperature: Pumpkin brownies can be served warm or at room temperature. If you prefer them warm, briefly microwave individual squares for a few seconds before serving.
5. Serving Size: Depending on how rich you want the serving to be, consider cutting the brownies into smaller squares. This allows guests to enjoy a taste without feeling overwhelmed.

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Storage Tips:

1. Room Temperature: If you plan to consume the brownies within a few days, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days.
2. Refrigeration: For longer storage, you can keep brownies in the refrigerator. Place them in an airtight container, where they will stay fresh for up to a week. Just be aware that refrigeration may slightly change their texture, making them a bit denser.
3. Freezing: For even longer storage, pumpkin brownies freeze well. Wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply place them in the refrigerator overnight or let them sit at room temperature for a few hours.
4. Labeling: If freezing, label your containers with the date to keep track of freshness. This will help ensure you enjoy the brownies at their best quality.
5. Reheating: If you’ve stored your brownies in the fridge or freezer and want to enjoy them warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the brownies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes. If microwaving, do so in short increments (10-15 seconds) until warmed through.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure your pumpkin brownies remain delicious and enjoyable for days to come!

1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin! Simply roast a sugar pumpkin, scoop out the flesh, and blend it until smooth to create your own pumpkin puree. Just ensure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the brownies.

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2. How can I tell when the pumpkin brownies are done baking?
To check for doneness, insert a toothpick or a cake tester into the center of the brownies. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), they are done. Keep in mind that they will continue to cook slightly as they cool.

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3. Can I make pumpkin brownies ahead of time?
Absolutely! Pumpkin brownies can be made a day or two in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness until you’re ready to serve.

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4. What can I substitute for the eggs to make pumpkin brownies vegan?
You can replace each egg with 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water (let it sit for a few minutes until it becomes gelatinous). Alternatively, you can use unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup per egg) or commercial egg replacers for a vegan-friendly option.

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