Decadent Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies: Your Perfect Fall Fudgy Treat
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Embrace the irresistible flavors of autumn with these incredibly easy Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies! As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of pumpkin spice filling your home. This recipe brings you the best of both worlds: the rich, fudgy goodness of classic chocolate brownies perfectly swirled with a creamy, spiced pumpkin cheesecake layer. It’s a match made in dessert heaven, offering a delightful contrast in textures and an explosion of fall flavors that will make these sweet treats an instant favorite.
Forget complicated baking projects; this homemade brownie recipe simplifies the process without compromising on taste. You get that signature gooey brownie base, elevated by a luscious pumpkin cream cheese mixture that adds moisture, tang, and that quintessential autumnal spice. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these easy pumpkin cheesecake brownies are designed for success, promising a deliciously moist and flavorful experience with every single bite.
If you consider yourself a true brownie connoisseur, prepare to be amazed by this inspired twist on a classic. These fudgy brownies are transformed into an extraordinary dessert with the addition of a vibrant pumpkin filling, making them ideal for fall gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply a cozy evening indulgence. Get ready to bake up some magic!
Essential Ingredients for Your Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies:
Crafting these delectable pumpkin cheesecake brownies requires a few simple ingredients, many of which you might already have in your pantry. We’ll divide them into two main categories: the rich brownie base and the creamy, spiced pumpkin cream cheese swirl. Using a boxed brownie mix makes this recipe incredibly quick and easy, perfect for busy schedules.
- Brownie Base: For ultimate convenience, we’re starting with your favorite box of brownie mix. Any standard boxed brownie mix will work wonderfully here, whether you prefer a classic fudge brownie or a more cake-like texture. This is your secret weapon for a quick dessert.
- Liquid: You will typically need water to prepare the brownie mix according to package directions. Always check your specific box mix for precise measurements.
- Oil: Vegetable oil is commonly used in boxed brownie mixes to ensure a moist and tender crumb. You can also use other neutral oils like canola or melted coconut oil.
- Egg: A large egg, ideally at room temperature, helps bind the brownie batter and contributes to its rich texture. Room temperature eggs emulsify better with other ingredients, leading to a smoother batter.
- Pumpkin Cream Cheese Mixture: This is where the magic happens for the pumpkin swirl!
- Pumpkin: It’s crucial to use canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin puree is 100% pumpkin, offering a pure flavor, while pumpkin pie filling contains added spices and sweeteners that might throw off the balance of this recipe. If you’re feeling adventurous and have extra time, homemade pumpkin puree can also be used for an even fresher taste.
- Cream Cheese: You will need softened cream cheese for this recipe. It’s essential that the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth, lump-free cheesecake layer. Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the best flavor and creamy consistency.
- Spices: Pumpkin pie spice is the key to that authentic fall flavor. You can use a store-bought blend or easily make your own homemade pumpkin pie spice for a customized touch. Your homemade blend usually includes cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar is used to sweeten the cream cheese mixture, balancing the tanginess of the cream cheese and enhancing the pumpkin flavor.
Optional Add-ins for Enhanced Flavor:
To take these Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies to the next level, consider adding some optional ingredients. A handful of semi-sweet chocolate chips folded into the brownie batter can intensify the chocolate experience, while a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts can add a delightful crunch. A dash of vanilla extract in either the brownie batter or the pumpkin mixture can also deepen the overall flavor profile.
Step-by-Step: How to Make These Irresistible Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies:
Creating these layered delights is simpler than you might think! Follow these easy instructions to achieve perfectly fudgy brownies with a creamy, spiced pumpkin swirl.
First things first, preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (160°C). This ensures your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking from the moment your brownies go in.
Next, prepare an 8×8-inch baking dish. You can either spray it generously with a non-stick cooking spray or, for easier removal and cleaner cuts, line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides. This parchment “sling” will allow you to lift the entire batch of brownies out once they’ve cooled.
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine your brownie mix, water, vegetable oil, and the large egg. Stir until just well combined. Be careful not to overmix the brownie batter; overmixing can lead to tougher brownies. A few lumps are perfectly fine!
Now, for the star of the show: the pumpkin cream cheese layer. In a separate bowl, add the canned pumpkin puree, softened cream cheese, pumpkin pie spice, and granulated sugar. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is completely smooth and free of any lumps. The cream cheese must be thoroughly softened to achieve this silky texture.
Once both batters are ready, it’s time to assemble! Pour approximately half of the brownie mixture into your prepared baking dish and carefully spread it out evenly to form the bottom layer. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon for this.
Next, gently spread the entire pumpkin cream cheese batter over the first brownie layer. Take your time to cover the brownie batter completely, reaching all edges of the pan.
Finally, carefully spoon and spread the remaining brownie batter over the pumpkin layer. It might seem tricky, but work slowly and gently, dabbing small dollops of brownie batter and then spreading them out. For a beautiful marbled effect, you can take a knife or a skewer and gently swirl it through the layers a few times.
Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the center appears set and a toothpick inserted into the brownie portion comes out with moist crumbs, not wet batter. The cheesecake layer may have a slight wobble, which is normal and indicates fudginess. Avoid overbaking, as this can lead to dry brownies.
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before attempting to cut or serve. This cooling period is essential for the cheesecake layer to fully set, ensuring clean, beautiful slices.
How to Store and Enjoy These Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies:
Proper storage ensures your delicious pumpkin cheesecake brownies stay fresh and flavorful for as long as possible.
Fridge: Since these amazing pumpkin brownies contain a cream cheese mixture, it is best to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 5-7 days. Always allow them to come closer to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor, although many enjoy them chilled as well!
Freezer: These brownies also freeze beautifully! To freeze, ensure they are completely cooled. Cut them into individual squares, then wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Place the wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours.
Tips and Tricks for Making the Best Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies:
Achieving bakery-quality brownies at home is easy with a few simple techniques and considerations. Here are some pro tips to ensure your pumpkin cheesecake brownies turn out perfectly every time:
Pumpkin Puree vs. Pumpkin Pie Filling: What’s the Difference?
This is a common question and a crucial distinction for this recipe! Always use 100% pure canned pumpkin puree. Pumpkin pie filling, while convenient, is pre-sweetened and spiced, and contains other ingredients that will alter the flavor and consistency of your cheesecake layer. Using pumpkin puree allows you to control the sweetness and spice level, ensuring the ideal balance with the chocolate brownie.
Choosing the Right Boxed Brownie Mix:
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, thanks to a boxed brownie mix. You truly can use whichever brand or type of brownie mix you prefer! Whether you favor a rich, fudgy brownie mix or one that yields a slightly more cake-like texture, either will complement the creamy pumpkin cheesecake swirl beautifully. For an extra layer of indulgence, I often enjoy throwing some semi-sweet chocolate chips into the brownie batter. This not only enhances the chocolate flavor but also adds an appealing texture.
Don’t Overmix the Batter:
For both the brownie and cheesecake batters, mix until just combined. Overmixing develops gluten in the flour (even in a mix), which can result in tough, dry brownies rather than the desired fudgy texture.
Ensure Cream Cheese is Softened:
This cannot be stressed enough! Cold cream cheese will result in a lumpy pumpkin cheesecake mixture. For a perfectly smooth swirl, make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature. You can achieve this by leaving it on the counter for about an hour or gently softening it in the microwave in short bursts.
Achieving the Perfect Swirl:
After layering your brownie and pumpkin mixtures, use a knife or a skewer to gently create swirls. Don’t overdo it, as you want distinct layers of chocolate and pumpkin. A few gentle passes are all you need to create a beautiful marbled effect on top.
Don’t Overbake:
Brownies are notoriously easy to overbake, which leads to a dry, crumbly texture. Keep a close eye on your brownies during the last 10-15 minutes of baking. A toothpick inserted into the brownie portion (avoiding the cheesecake swirl) should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter. The center might still look a little soft, which is perfect for a fudgy result.
Cool Completely:
Patience is a virtue when it comes to cutting brownies, especially layered ones! Allowing your Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies to cool completely, preferably for several hours or even overnight in the fridge, is crucial. This gives the cheesecake layer time to set properly, resulting in clean, precise cuts and preventing the layers from smushing together.
Serving Suggestions:
These brownies are fantastic on their own, but a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar can elevate them to an even more impressive dessert. They pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk.
More Delicious Dessert Recipes to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth:
If you loved these pumpkin cheesecake brownies, be sure to explore more delightful dessert creations from our kitchen!
- Hot Cocoa Cookies
- Caramel Butter Bars
- Cinnamon Roll Biscuits
- Nutter Butter Fudge Ice Box Cake
Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies
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Ingredients
- 18 oz box brownie mix , (any brownie mix will work)
- ¼ cup water
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil , (or any oil)
- 1 egg
Pumpkin cream cheese
- 1 cup canned pumpkin purée
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ tbsp pumpkin pie spice
- ½ cup sugar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325 degrees.
- Spray a 8×8 baking dish with non stick spray.
- To a medium sized bowl add in the brownie mix, water, oil, and egg mix until well combined.
- To a separate bowl add in the pumpkin, cream cheese, pumpkin pie spice, and sugar whisk until smooth.
- Pour half of the brownie mixture into the baking dish spread it out.
- Spread the pumpkin mixture over the brownie batter.
- Spread the remaining brownie batter over the pumpkin mixture.
- Bake for 40-50 minutes or until the center is cooked through.
- Let cool before serving.
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Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
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We hope you thoroughly enjoy baking and savoring these amazing Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies. They truly embody the spirit of fall in every rich, creamy, and chocolatey bite. If you give this recipe a try, we’d love to hear from you! Make sure to tag us on Instagram @julia.pacheco.cooking and let us know how much you liked the recipe! Happy baking!