Pumpkin cheesecake brownies are the perfect fall treat, combining the rich flavors of chocolate, pumpkin, and creamy cheesecake into one irresistible dessert. Here’s how you can make them at home:
Pumpkin cheesecake brownies Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
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Pumpkin cheesecake brownies – Preparation Steps
Making the Brownie Layer:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly.
Preparing the Pumpkin Cheesecake Layer:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add in the pumpkin puree, sugar, egg, and pumpkin pie spice, and beat until well combined.
Assembling and Baking:
- Pour the pumpkin cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter in the pan, spreading it out evenly.
- Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the pumpkin cheesecake mixture into the brownie batter, creating a marbled effect.
- Bake in the oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly firm.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
Read also: Biscoff Cheesecake Recipe.
Tips for Success
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to ensure a smooth cheesecake layer.
- Be careful not to overmix the brownie batter to avoid a tough texture.
- For a more intense pumpkin flavor, add an extra teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice to the cheesecake layer.
Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies Variations and Substitutions
- Chocolate Swirl: For an extra decadent twist, swirl melted chocolate or chocolate ganache into the brownie batter before baking. This adds richness and depth of flavor to the brownies.
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts such as pecans, walnuts, or almonds to the brownie batter for added texture and flavor. Toast the nuts beforehand for a deeper, nuttier taste.
- Spiced Pumpkin: Enhance the pumpkin flavor by adding extra spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to the pumpkin cheesecake layer. This gives the brownies a warm and comforting autumnal flavor profile.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute dairy-free cream cheese and coconut oil for the cheesecake layer to make the brownies dairy-free. Use a dairy-free chocolate or cocoa powder for the brownie layer as well.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour to make gluten-free Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
- Vegan Option: Replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use a vegan cream cheese alternative to make vegan Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies. Be sure to use dairy-free chocolate chips if desired.
- Sweet Potato Swirl: Swap the pumpkin puree for mashed sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter and earthier flavor. This variation adds a unique twist to the classic recipe while still delivering a deliciously moist texture.
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Serving Pumpkin cheesecake brownies
- Serve pumpkin cheesecake brownies warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
- Enjoy alongside a cup of hot apple cider or pumpkin spice latte for the ultimate fall treat.
Storage Instructions
- Store leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Alternatively, freeze individual brownie squares for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies Health Benefits
- Pumpkin is rich in vitamins A and C and fiber, making it a nutritious addition to your dessert.
- Dark chocolate in the brownie layer contains antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation and improve heart health.
- Enjoying pumpkin cheesecake brownies in moderation can be part of a balanced diet, especially when made with wholesome ingredients.
Conclusion
Pumpkin cheesecake brownies are a delicious way to celebrate the flavors of fall. With layers of rich chocolate brownie and creamy pumpkin cheesecake, these indulgent treats will surely be a hit with friends and family. Whether you enjoy them as a dessert or a midday snack, they’re guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth.
FAQs about Pumpkin cheesecake brownies
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree in the recipe?
A: Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree in place of canned pumpkin. Simply roast or steam pumpkin pieces until tender, then puree in a food processor or blender until smooth. Be sure to strain any excess liquid to achieve a thicker consistency like canned puree.
Can I make these Pumpkin cheesecake brownies ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! These brownies actually taste even better the next day after the flavors have had a chance to meld together. You can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I freeze Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies?
A: Yes, you can freeze these brownies for longer storage. Wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Can I use gluten-free flour in this recipe for a gluten-free option?
A: Yes, you can substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour for regular flour in this recipe. Just ensure that all other ingredients used are also gluten-free. The texture may vary slightly, but the flavor will still be delicious.
Can I omit the cocoa powder in the brownie layer for a lighter color?
A: While cocoa powder adds flavor and color to the brownie layer, you can omit it if you prefer a lighter-colored brownie. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be less intense without the cocoa, and the texture may be slightly different.
Can I use a different type of cheese for the cheesecake layer?
A: Cream cheese is traditionally used for the cheesecake layer due to its creamy texture and tangy flavor. However, you can experiment with other soft cheeses like mascarpone or ricotta for a different flavor profile.
How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
A: The brownies are done when the edges are set and slightly pulling away from the sides of the pan, and the center is just barely set. You can also insert a toothpick into the center, and it should come out with a few moist crumbs attached, but not wet.
PrintPumpkin Cheesecake Brownies
- Total Time: 1hour 5minutes
Description
Pumpkin cheesecake brownies are the perfect fall treat, combining the rich flavors of chocolate, pumpkin, and creamy cheesecake into one irresistible dessert.
Ingredients
For the brownie layer:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the pumpkin cheesecake layer:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add in the pumpkin puree, sugar, egg, and pumpkin pie spice, and beat until well combined.
- Pour the pumpkin cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter in the pan, spreading it out evenly.
- Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the pumpkin cheesecake mixture into the brownie batter, creating a marbled effect.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly firm.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
- Serve and enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies!
Notes
- If you want two perfect layers as seen in the photos, when you’re swirling with a skewer, make sure you mostly only swirl the top two layers and don’t touch the bottom brownie layer.
- Store your leftover brownies in an airtight container on the counter for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Brownies
- Cuisine: Amercian
Keywords: Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies
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