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- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted - 2 cups granulated sugar - 4 large eggs - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder - 1 teaspoon baking powder - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice - 1 cup canned pumpkin puree - 8 oz cream cheese, softened - 1/2 cup powdered sugar - 1 teaspoon cinnamon - For gluten-free options, use almond flour or a gluten-free blend. - For vegan choices, substitute eggs with flax eggs and use dairy-free cream cheese. When I create Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies, I always choose quality ingredients. Each element plays a big role in the final taste. The unsalted butter adds richness. Granulated sugar gives sweetness and helps with texture. Eggs bind the mixture and add moisture. Vanilla extract brings warmth and depth. All-purpose flour and cocoa powder create the brownie base. Baking powder helps the brownies rise and become fluffy. Salt balances the sweetness and enhances flavor. Pumpkin spice adds that cozy fall taste, while pumpkin puree gives moisture and a rich color. Cream cheese, mixed with powdered sugar and cinnamon, creates a luscious swirl. This creamy layer makes each bite special and tasty. If you want to try something different, consider the optional ingredients. Gluten-free flour works well for those with dietary needs. Vegan substitutes are perfect for plant-based diets. You can easily make these brownies fit your preferences. For the full recipe, check out the details above. - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare the baking pan. - In a large bowl, mix the melted butter and sugar until combined. - Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Then add the vanilla extract. - In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, and pumpkin spice. Gradually fold the dry mix into the wet mix until just combined. - In another bowl, beat the cream cheese with powdered sugar and cinnamon until smooth. - Next, incorporate the pumpkin puree into the cream cheese mixture and mix until well blended. - Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. - Spoon dollops of the pumpkin cream cheese mixture over the brownie layer, then pour the remaining brownie batter on top. - Use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl the cream cheese filling through the brownie batter to create a marbled effect. - Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out mostly clean. For more details, refer to the Full Recipe. To get that perfect fudgy texture, use melted butter and mix well. This helps the brownies stay moist. If you want extra fudginess, don’t overbake them. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overmixing the batter once you add the dry ingredients. Mix just until you see no flour. This keeps the brownies soft and chewy. These brownies taste great with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream. The creamy topping contrasts nicely with the rich brownies. For a fun display, dust them with powdered sugar. You can also stack them on a cake stand for a festive look. Sometimes brownies sink or overcook. If they sink, you may have added too much liquid or not baked them long enough. To fix this, make sure to measure ingredients accurately. If they overcook, check your oven’s temperature. Ovens can vary, so use an oven thermometer for accuracy. {{image_2}} You can make these brownies even better! Try adding chocolate chips or nuts to the batter. Chocolate chips add a rich taste, while nuts give a nice crunch. Other spices can enhance the flavor too. Consider using nutmeg or clove for a warm, cozy touch. Switch up the cream cheese flavor for a fun twist. Maple or vanilla cream cheese can add a whole new layer of taste. You can even swirl in caramel or peanut butter for extra yumminess. These alternatives keep things interesting and let you customize your brownies. If you need a gluten-free option, swap regular flour for a gluten-free blend. Many brands work well in this recipe. For dairy-free choices, you can replace the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative. Also, use flax eggs instead of regular eggs for a vegan twist. These modifications make it easier for everyone to enjoy these tasty treats. To keep your Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps prevent them from drying out. You can line the container with parchment paper for easy removal. If you want them to stay extra moist, place a slice of bread in the container. The bread will help keep the brownies soft. If you live in a warm area, store the brownies in the fridge. The cool air helps them stay fresh longer. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before eating for the best taste! To freeze your brownies, first cut them into squares. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to remove any air before sealing. This method helps prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy your brownies, take them out of the freezer. Let them thaw in the fridge overnight for the best results. If you're in a hurry, you can leave them out at room temperature for a few hours. They will taste just as good! At room temperature, these brownies last about three to four days. If you store them in the fridge, they can last up to a week. Always check for signs of spoilage. Look for changes in color or a strange smell. If they feel dry or hard, it’s best to toss them. Enjoy your brownies while they are fresh for the best flavor! How long do Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies last? These brownies stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days at room temperature. Keep them in an airtight container to maintain their moisture and flavor. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree? Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Just cook it until soft, then mash it until smooth. This adds a nice, fresh taste to your brownies. Is it necessary to use unsweetened cocoa powder? Using unsweetened cocoa powder is best. It helps balance the sweetness of the sugar and cream cheese. Sweetened cocoa can make your brownies too sweet. Can I double the recipe, and how would I adjust baking time? You can double the recipe easily. Use a larger pan, like a 12x18 inch. Check for doneness by adding about 5 to 10 minutes to the baking time. What can I substitute for cream cheese in this recipe? You can use Greek yogurt or silken tofu. Both will give you a creamy texture. They also add a slight tang, similar to cream cheese. What beverages pair well with Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies? These brownies go great with coffee or chai tea. The spices in these drinks match the pumpkin flavor perfectly. Hot chocolate is also a cozy option. Can these brownies be made a day in advance? Yes, making them a day early is a good idea. This helps the flavors blend nicely. Just store them properly to keep them fresh for serving. Making Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies is fun and rewarding. We covered the key ingredients, mixing steps, and baking tips to ensure success. Don’t forget the optional and dietary variations that suit your needs. Store and freeze them properly for longer enjoyment. With this guide, you can impress everyone with your delicious treats. Now it's time to bake and share your brownies with friends and family! Enjoy the process and savor every bite.

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies

Indulge in the perfect fall treat with these Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies! Rich chocolate brownies meet a luscious pumpkin cream cheese filling for a delightful dessert that captures the essence of the season. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you'll have a stunning treat ready in no time. Click through to explore the full recipe and impress your friends and family with this deliciously unique twist on a classic brownie!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup unsalted butter, melted

2 cups granulated sugar

4 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon pumpkin spice

1 cup canned pumpkin puree

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions
 

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

    In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until well combined.

      Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, followed by the vanilla extract.

        In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, and pumpkin spice. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.

          In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and cinnamon until smooth and creamy. Then fold in the pumpkin puree, mixing until well blended.

            Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.

              Spoon dollops of the pumpkin cream cheese mixture over the brownie layer, then pour the remaining brownie batter on top.

                Using a knife or toothpick, gently swirl the cream cheese filling through the brownie batter to create a marbled effect.

                  Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.

                    Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before cutting into squares and serving.

                      Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 20

                        - Presentation Tips: Serve the brownies dusted with powdered sugar and a dollop of whipped cream on the side, or arrange them on a cake stand for a festive touch.