Pumpkin Brownie Delight combines the rich, fudgy decadence of classic brownies with the warm, spiced flavor of pumpkin pie, creating the perfect treat for the autumn season. The distinct layers of brownie and pumpkin come together seamlessly, offering a taste that encapsulates the spirit of fall.
Ingredients
For the Brownie Layer:
1 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Pumpkin Layer:
1 cup pumpkin puree
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 24 brownies
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to help lift the brownies out later.
2. Prepare the brownie layer by whisking together the melted butter and sugar in a large bowl. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. In another bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Set aside.
4. For the pumpkin layer, whisk together the pumpkin puree, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt in a medium bowl until well combined. Stir in the flour until smooth.
5. Pour about three-fourths of the brownie batter into the prepared pan, smoothing it into an even layer with a spatula. Carefully spread the pumpkin mixture over the brownie base.
6. Dollop the remaining brownie batter over the pumpkin layer. Use a knife to swirl the two layers together to create a marbled effect.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. Make sure not to overbake to keep the brownies fudgy.
8. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before lifting them out using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
These brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For a longer shelf life, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, leave them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours.
Cooking Techniques
For best results, use room temperature eggs. This will help them incorporate more smoothly into the batter. Also, measuring flour accurately is essential. Scoop the flour into the measuring cup with a spoon and level it off with a knife to avoid packing it down. This ensures the brownies remain fudgy and not dry.
FAQ
1. Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?
No, pumpkin pie filling already contains spices and sweeteners, which could affect the flavor and texture balance in these brownies.
2. What if I don’t have parchment paper?
You can grease the pan thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray, but parchment paper makes lifting and cutting the brownies much easier.
3. Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Yes, feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips to the brownie batter for extra texture and flavor.
4. How do I know when the brownies are done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake to keep them fudgy.
Conclusion
Pumpkin Brownie Delight is a fusion of two beloved desserts, offering the best of both worlds. The rich, fudgy brownies combined with the spiced pumpkin layer create a harmony of flavors that is perfect for any autumn occasion. Easy to make and delightful to taste, these brownies are sure to become a seasonal favorite.
More Recipes Suggestions and Combinations
1. Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake: A moist cake that captures the essence of the popular fall beverage.
2. Apple Cinnamon Roll Bread: A twist on cinnamon rolls with an apple filling.
3. Pecan Pie Brownies: Another brownie combination for nut lovers.
4. Maple Glazed Pumpkin Cookies: Soft cookies with a sweet maple glaze.
Experimenting with these recipes can extend your autumn baking repertoire, bringing a variety of seasonal flavors into your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or simply wanting to indulge in a treat that captures the essence of autumn, these recipes are sure to inspire and satisfy.