Pumpkin Spice Brownies: Amazing Fall Treat

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Pumpkin Spice Brownies have become my absolute favorite fall treat, and I’m so excited to share this recipe with you! There’s something magical about the combination of rich chocolate and warm spices that just screams cozy autumn. I remember the first time I tried making them myself; the aroma filling my kitchen was incredible, a mix of melted chocolate and cinnamon that instantly made me feel like I was at a pumpkin patch. These aren’t just any brownies; they’re incredibly moist and fudgy, making them the perfect easy pumpkin spice brownies for any occasion. Get ready to impress everyone with these homemade pumpkin spice brownies. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Spice Brownies

You’re going to adore these brownies for so many reasons:

The taste is heavenly – a perfect blend of deep chocolate and warm, comforting pumpkin spice.
They are genuinely easy pumpkin spice brownies, taking minimal effort for maximum flavor.
You can whip up this fudgy pumpkin spice brownies recipe in under an hour, including baking!
They’re surprisingly budget-friendly, using common pantry staples.
The prep time is super short, making them perfect for a weeknight craving.
Kids and adults alike will devour these spiced pumpkin delights.
They offer a touch of seasonal flavor that’s perfect for any fall gathering.

Ingredients for Homemade Pumpkin Spice Brownies

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating the best homemade pumpkin spice brownies. You’ll need a few key items to get that perfect texture and flavor.

1/2 cup granulated sugar – provides sweetness and helps create that signature brownie crust.
1/4 cup unsalted butter – melted, this adds richness and moisture to the brownie base.
2 tablespoons whole milk – essential for creating a smooth, luscious pumpkin spice brownie batter.
1 1/2 cups milk chocolate chips – for that classic chocolatey goodness that pairs wonderfully with pumpkin spice.
2/3 cup flour – the structure for our delicious brownies.
1/2 teaspoon pumpkin spice – the star of the show, bringing those warm, cozy fall flavors.
1/4 teaspoon baking soda – helps the brownies rise just enough.
1/2 teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
2 eggs – bind everything together and contribute to the fudgy texture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – adds a touch of warmth and depth.

How to Make Easy Pumpkin Spice Brownies

Ready to dive into the magic of how to make pumpkin spice brownies? It’s simpler than you think! Follow these steps for incredibly moist and delicious results.

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). While the oven heats, grease an 8×8 inch baking dish. This prevents sticking and ensures your brownies slide right out.
Step 2: In a medium saucepan, combine the 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup unsalted butter, and 2 tablespoons whole milk. Heat gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter is melted and the mixture is simmering. Remove from heat and stir in the 1 1/2 cups milk chocolate chips until they are completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy. Let this chocolate base cool for about 5-10 minutes.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together the 2/3 cup flour, 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin spice, 1/4 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. This dry mix ensures all the leavening and spice are evenly distributed.
Step 4: To the slightly cooled chocolate mixture, whisk in the 2 eggs one at a time, followed by the 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Make sure the chocolate mixture isn’t too hot, or it could scramble the eggs. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients from Step 3 until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a rich, glossy pumpkin spice brownie batter. Overmixing can lead to tough brownies.
Step 5: Pour the batter evenly into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out with a spatula. Bake for 25–30 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached, not wet batter. This is key to achieving chewy pumpkin spice brownies.
Step 6: Once baked, let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This resting period is crucial for them to set up properly.
Step 7: While the brownies cool, prepare the frosting. In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the 3/4 cup softened unsalted butter and 3 tablespoons pumpkin puree until smooth and creamy.
Step 8: Add the 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch of kosher salt. Gradually add the 2 cups powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until incorporated, then increase speed to medium-high and beat until light and fluffy.
Step 9: Once the brownies are completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Cut into squares and serve. Enjoy your delightful homemade pumpkin spice brownies!

Pumpkin Spice Brownies: Amazing Fall Treat - Pumpkin Spice Brownies - additional detail

Pro Tips for the Best Pumpkin Spice Brownies

Want to elevate your brownie game? These tips will help you achieve perfectly spiced, fudgy perfection every time.

For that extra fudgy texture, don’t overbake! A toothpick should come out with moist crumbs, not completely clean.
Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for the smoothest batter and best emulsification.
Don’t skip cooling the chocolate mixture before adding the eggs; it’s crucial to avoid scrambling them.
Taste your frosting before you frost! Adjust the pumpkin pie spice or powdered sugar to your preference.

What’s the secret to perfect Pumpkin Spice Brownies?

The secret to truly perfect, fudgy pumpkin spice brownies lies in the chocolate base and avoiding overmixing. Gently folding in the dry ingredients until just combined prevents a tough texture, ensuring that signature gooey center. For more baking tips, check out this guide on baking essentials.

Can I make Pumpkin Spice Brownies ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! You can prepare the brownie batter and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. The frosting can also be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Pumpkin Spice Brownies?

The biggest mistake is overmixing the pumpkin spice brownie batter, which leads to tough brownies. Also, be careful not to overbake them! Keep an eye on the oven in the last 10 minutes to ensure they stay moist. Understanding the difference between ingredients can also help prevent baking mishaps.

Best Ways to Serve Fall Pumpkin Spice Brownies

These delicious brownies are versatile and perfect for any autumn occasion. They’re fantastic served warm or at room temperature, and I love them with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a delightful contrast in temperature and flavor.

For a truly festive presentation, consider dusting them with a little extra powdered sugar or a sprinkle of cinnamon. They pair wonderfully with a warm mug of apple cider or a rich hot chocolate, making them ideal for cozy evenings. These fall pumpkin spice brownies are also a guaranteed hit at potlucks or Thanksgiving dessert tables! For more cozy fall recipes, try our apple cinnamon overnight oats.

Nutrition Facts for Pumpkin Spice Brownies

These decadent brownies are a perfect treat for any autumn celebration. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving:

Calories: 280
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 24g
Sodium: 170mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. For more information on healthy eating, explore the benefits of hibiscus water.

How to Store and Reheat Easy Pumpkin Spice Brownies

You’ve made the most amazing easy pumpkin spice brownies, and now you want to keep them fresh! Once the brownies have cooled completely (this is super important to prevent sogginess!), store them in an airtight container. You can layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

For short-term storage, they’ll stay delicious in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. If you want to save these delightful fall treats for longer, wrap them well in plastic wrap, then in foil, and pop them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, you can let them thaw overnight in the fridge, or for a quick warm-up, gently reheat them in a low oven or microwave for a few seconds until just warmed through. For more baking tips, consider our multigrain bread recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Spice Brownies

What are pumpkin spice brownies?

Pumpkin spice brownies are a delightful fusion of classic chocolate brownies and the warm, aromatic spices typically found in pumpkin pie. They offer a rich chocolate flavor complemented by notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove, often with a moist, fudgy texture that makes them a perfect fall dessert.

What are the best pumpkin spice brownies?

The best pumpkin spice brownies are those that strike a perfect balance between chocolate and spice, with a wonderfully fudgy and moist interior. This recipe delivers exactly that, thanks to the combination of melted chocolate and a touch of pumpkin puree in the frosting, ensuring a decadent treat.

Can I make pumpkin spice brownies with a mix?

Yes, you can certainly use a pumpkin spice brownie mix as a shortcut! However, making them from scratch, like this recipe, allows you to control the quality of ingredients and achieve a superior texture and flavor that a mix often can’t replicate. You get that homemade touch!

How do I ensure my pumpkin spice brownies are moist?

To ensure your brownies are moist, avoid overmixing the batter once you add the dry ingredients. Also, pay close attention to baking times – overbaking is the number one culprit for dry brownies. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with moist crumbs, not completely clean. For more baking tips, check out this pie trick.

Variations of Pumpkin Spice Brownies You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic recipe, why not explore some fun twists on these beloved pumpkin spice brownies? They’re incredibly adaptable!

Vegan Pumpkin Spice Brownies: To make these vegan, simply swap the butter for vegan butter or coconut oil, use a plant-based milk like almond or soy, and substitute the eggs with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water, let sit for 5 mins).
Gluten-Free Pumpkin Spice Brownies: For a gluten-free version, use a good quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of wheat flour. You might need to adjust the baking time slightly, so keep an eye on them.
White Chocolate Swirl: Melt some white chocolate chips and swirl them into the brownie batter before baking. The creamy sweetness of white chocolate pairs wonderfully with pumpkin spice.
Cream Cheese Swirl: Mix softened cream cheese with a little sugar and an egg yolk, then dollop it onto the brownie batter and swirl gently with a knife for an extra rich and tangy element.