Pumpkin Cheesecake Swirl Brownies

Delicious Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies: The Ultimate Fall Dessert Recipe

These Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies might seem like a complicated treat, but they are surprisingly easy to whip up and deliver an intensely fudgy experience. If you’ve never ventured into making brownies from scratch, this is your gateway to a fall-inspired, unforgettable dessert. These brownies are the perfect way to celebrate the autumn season, bringing together the comforting flavors of pumpkin and the rich indulgence of cheesecake with the classic appeal of brownies.

Homemade pumpkin cheesecake brownies, some cut into squares, beside small pumpkins.
Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies: A decadent fall treat!

Table of Contents

  • Why You’ll Love This Recipe
  • Ingredients
  • Substitutions
  • How to Make Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies
  • Kelly’s Recipe Tips
  • Storage Tips
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • More Fall Recipes You’ll Love
  • Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

This remarkable dessert combines brownie batter and pumpkin cheesecake, creating a stunning marbled effect that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. Prepare yourself, because resisting the urge to devour the entire pan will be a real challenge! The combination of textures and flavors makes these pumpkin cheesecake brownies truly irresistible.

These pumpkin cream cheese brownies are also surprisingly simple to make, considering how impressive they look. The cheesecake layer requires a mere four ingredients, making this a deceptively easy fall dessert that’s sure to impress your friends and family. You’ll be surprised at how quickly you can create such a show-stopping treat.

While these fudgy brownies are incredible on their own, elevating them with a scoop of no-churn vanilla ice cream or a generous drizzle of butterscotch sauce will take them to the next level. If you’re anything like me, you’ll be baking these pumpkin brownies all throughout fall – giving you plenty of opportunities to experiment with various toppings and flavor combinations. Consider adding chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or a sprinkle of sea salt for added texture and taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • They’re easy to make. These brownies only require around 15 minutes of active preparation time, making them ideal for busy schedules and impromptu gatherings.
  • Two desserts in one. For those who adore brownies and pumpkin cheesecake (or even just one!), these brownies offer the best of both worlds. It’s a delightful fusion of textures and flavors that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
  • Impressive with minimal effort. Swirling the cheesecake into the brownie batter demands no special tools – a simple butter knife will do! The end result, however, looks like you invested far more time and energy, making them a fantastic choice for impressing guests without slaving away in the kitchen for hours.

Ingredients for Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies

  • Unsalted butter: Butter provides the crucial richness that makes these pumpkin brownies so decadent and satisfying. It’s the foundation for the fudgy texture that everyone loves.
  • Sugar: Sugar, beyond providing sweetness, also contributes to the overall moisture level, ensuring that your brownies are tender and delightful.
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder: Cocoa powder delivers the classic brownie flavor and is easier to work with than melting chocolate. It provides a deep, rich chocolate taste that complements the pumpkin perfectly.
  • All-purpose flour: All-purpose flour provides structure, holding the pumpkin cheesecake brownies together and preventing them from becoming too soft or crumbly.
  • Cream cheese: Cream cheese is the heart of the pumpkin cheesecake layer, lending it that creamy, tangy goodness that’s synonymous with cheesecake. Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing!
  • Canned pumpkin: Canned pumpkin imparts the authentic squash flavor and adds a gorgeous orange hue to the cheesecake. Be sure to use 100% canned pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.
  • Pumpkin pie spice: This spice blend is your go-to for fall baking! It infuses the cheesecake with warm, comforting spices that perfectly complement the pumpkin flavor.

See the recipe card below for full information on ingredients and quantities.

Whisk iconSubstitutions and Variations

Need to tweak the recipe? Here are some easy substitutions:

  • Homemade pumpkin pie spice: No store-bought blend? Combine ground cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg to create your own custom spice mix.
  • Gluten-free option: For a gluten-free version, try substituting Cup4Cup Multipurpose Flour for the all-purpose flour. This will ensure that your brownies are suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Add chocolate chips: Mix chocolate chips into the brownie batter for extra sweetness.
  • Add nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add great texture to these pumpkin cheesecake brownies.
  • Make it vegan: Substitute the butter and eggs for vegan alternatives to make this a vegan dessert.

How to Make Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies: Step-by-Step Guide

Creating these marbled brownies requires only a few simple steps. Follow these instructions to create the ultimate brownie dessert.

  1. Preheat and prep: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing it to hang over the sides for easy removal. Then, grease the parchment paper generously with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Whip up the brownie batter: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking after each addition until fully incorporated. Gently fold in the flour with a spatula until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
  3. Prepare the pumpkin cheesecake: In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or using a hand mixer), beat together the cream cheese, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and egg yolk until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Ensure that the cream cheese is at room temperature to prevent lumps from forming.
  4. Layer and dollop: Spread approximately ¾ of the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish, ensuring an even layer. Gently spread the pumpkin cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter, creating a smooth, uniform layer. Dollop the remaining brownie batter randomly over the cheesecake layer.
  5. Swirl the magic: Use a butter knife or skewer to swirl the two batters together, creating a beautiful marbled effect. Use an “S” motion for effortless, picture-perfect swirls. Be careful not to over-swirl, as this can muddy the distinct layers.
Pumpkin cheesecake brownies batter in a pan.
Brownie and cheesecake batter being swirled together.
  1. Bake to perfection: Bake the pumpkin cream cheese brownies for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs. The brownies should be cooked but still wonderfully fudgy! Allow them to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper sling.
Close up of swirling batter in brownies.
Swirling the brownie and pumpkin cheesecake batter.

Pro Tip: Employ a continuous “S” motion when swirling the two batters together to achieve visually stunning swirls. This technique will create an elegant, professional-looking finish.

Chef's hat iconKelly’s Recipe Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies

Here are some valuable tips to ensure your pumpkin cheesecake brownies turn out amazing:

  • Egg separation made easy: To easily separate egg yolks from egg whites, gently transfer the yolk back and forth between the two eggshell halves until only the yolk remains. Alternatively, you can use your clean hands, allowing the egg white to run through your fingers. Remember to wash your hands thoroughly afterward!
  • Ideal swirling tool: A butter knife is the perfect instrument for swirling the brownie and cheesecake batters together. A fork’s tines would allow the batter to pass through. If you have a wooden skewer, that can also be used effectively.
  • Room temperature ingredients: Ensure all refrigerated ingredients like eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for better incorporation and texture.
  • Don’t overbake: Overbaking will result in dry brownies. They are ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.

Refrigerator iconStorage Tips for Freshness

Proper storage will keep your pumpkin cheesecake brownies delicious for days:

You can keep the pumpkin brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, wrap the brownies individually in foil, then place them in a freezer-safe zipper-lock bag. They can be frozen for up to a few months – simply thaw them at room temperature or microwave briefly before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies

How does pumpkin affect baking?

Pumpkin puree adds moisture to baked goods. It’s important to measure it accurately to avoid overly wet results.

Should brownies be baked on the top or bottom rack of the oven?

Always bake brownies on the middle rack of the oven. This ensures even heat distribution. The top rack may cause the tops to bake too quickly, while the bottom rack may overcook the base.

Should brownies be baked covered or uncovered?

Bake brownies uncovered for best results. If they begin to brown too quickly, cover them loosely with aluminum foil for the remaining baking time.

Can I use fresh pumpkin puree?

Yes, you can! Ensure you remove any excess moisture before using in this recipe.

How do I prevent the brownies from sticking to the pan?

Greasing and lining your baking pan with parchment paper ensures easy removal and prevents sticking.

More Delicious Fall Recipes You’ll Love

  • Easy Apple and Pear Crisp
  • Pumpkin Dinner Rolls
  • Easy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
  • Pumpkin Banana Bread
  • Cranberry Orange Scones (Example Link)
  • Spiced Gingerbread Cookies (Example Link)
More homemade pumpkin cheesecake brownies with pumpkins.
Perfect Fall Brownies

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Dessert

Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

Brownie batter and pumpkin cheesecake come together in this perfect fall dessert that looks impressive but is very easy to make.
Author:
Kelly Senyei
Rate this recipe:
Pumpkin cheesecake brownies on tan parchment paper cut into squares with sugar pumpkins
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Total Time
45 minutes
Servings
12 servings

Ingredients

For the brownie batter:


  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

  • 1 cup sugar

  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

  • 2 large eggs

  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour

For the pumpkin cheesecake:


  • 4 oz. cream cheese, at room temp

  • 1/2 cup canned pumpkin

  • 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

  • 1 large egg yolk