Ingredients
The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients—simple, fresh, and quality-focused. I always reach for organic pumpkin puree when possible; it adds a natural sweetness and velvety texture that really shines. Using real butter and high-quality cocoa powder makes a noticeable difference in flavor depth. Over the years, I’ve learned that even the smallest ingredient swaps can change the final result, so I like to keep things straightforward but flexible enough for busy families.
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips or chopped nuts
If you want to make these gluten-free, I’ve had success swapping the flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. For a dairy-free version, coconut oil works beautifully in place of butter, adding a subtle coconut note that pairs nicely with the pumpkin.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and slightly glossy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract and pumpkin puree until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix. The batter should be thick and luscious.
- If using, gently fold in chocolate chips or nuts for added texture.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing. This helps them set and makes cutting cleaner.
One tip I learned from watching my mom is not to rush the cooling process. Patience here means brownies that hold their shape beautifully and slice like a dream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Keywords: Delicious Pumpkin Brownies, recipe, cooking, food
