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To make these Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Brownies, gather these key items: - 1 cup pumpkin puree - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1 cup granulated sugar - 1/2 cup packed brown sugar - 1/2 cup vegetable oil - 2 large eggs - 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour - 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder - 1 teaspoon baking powder - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg - 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 8 oz cream cheese, softened - 1/4 cup powdered sugar - 1 tablespoon milk You can swap some ingredients if needed: - Use sweet potato puree instead of pumpkin for a twist. - Swap vegetable oil with melted coconut oil for a tropical taste. - Choose brown sugar only, if you prefer richer flavor. - Use dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan option. - For gluten-free brownies, try almond flour or gluten-free flour. Gather these tools to make the process smooth: - 9x13 inch baking pan - Mixing bowls (large and small) - Whisk for mixing wet ingredients - Spatula for folding batter - Hand mixer or whisk for cream cheese - Toothpick for checking doneness - Parchment paper (optional for easy removal) With these ingredients and tools, you are ready to create a delicious treat! First, you need to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even baking. Next, take a 9x13 inch baking pan. You can lightly grease it or line it with parchment paper. This will help you remove the brownies later. In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk to mix these ingredients until they are smooth and well combined. This mixture adds moisture and flavor to the brownies. Grab a separate bowl and sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, and salt. Sifting is important to break up clumps and mix the dry ingredients evenly. In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk. Beat this mixture with a hand mixer or whisk until it is creamy and smooth. Make sure there are no lumps, as this will create a nice layer in your brownies. Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Then, dollop the cream cheese mixture over the brownie batter. Gently spread it to make a marbled look. Next, pour the rest of the brownie batter on top of the cream cheese layer. Use a knife to swirl the two mixtures together lightly. Bake the brownies in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. They are ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean. Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before slicing them into squares. Enjoy your delicious treat! To make fudgy brownies, start with high-quality cocoa powder. This choice adds rich flavor. Mix the wet ingredients well for a smooth batter. When adding dry ingredients, stir just until combined. Overmixing can make brownies tough. Keep your oven temperature steady for even baking. Always test with a toothpick; a few crumbs mean they are perfect. For a stunning marble effect, layer the two batters carefully. Pour half of the brownie batter first. Then, add dollops of the cream cheese mix. Use a knife to swirl gently, but don’t overdo it. You want to see both colors. This technique creates a beautiful design and keeps the flavors balanced. For serving, cut the brownies into squares after cooling. Place them on a nice plate or wooden board. Dust with powdered sugar for a sweet touch. Add a dollop of whipped cream on top. A sprinkle of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice will impress your guests. Pair them with hot coffee or tea for a cozy treat. {{image_4}} You can boost the flavor by adding chocolate chips. I suggest using semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips. Stir in about one cup of chips to the batter before pouring it into the pan. This will add a nice texture and taste to your brownies. The chocolate pairs well with the pumpkin spice flavor. To make these brownies vegan, swap the eggs for flax eggs. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with two and a half tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour. Both options keep the taste rich and delicious. You can play with the spices to match the seasons. In spring, try adding lemon zest for a fresh twist. In summer, consider using fresh berries in place of some pumpkin. For winter, add a hint of peppermint extract for a festive flavor. Each change can give your brownies a unique touch. Store your leftover brownies in an airtight container. Keep them at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, place them in the fridge for about a week. This helps the flavors stay fresh. Just be sure to let them cool completely before sealing. To freeze brownies, first, let them cool completely. Cut them into squares and wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped brownies in a freezer bag. They will stay good for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature. To reheat brownies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place brownies on a baking sheet and warm for about 5 to 10 minutes. This will revive their soft texture. If you prefer, you can also use the microwave. Just heat them in 10-second bursts until warm. Enjoy the gooey goodness! You can check if the brownies are done by using a toothpick. Insert it into the center of the brownies. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. If it comes out with wet batter, they need more time. Generally, they bake for 30 to 35 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Yes, you can make these brownies ahead of time! Bake them and let them cool. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for up to three days at room temperature. You can also refrigerate them for up to a week. Just let them sit at room temp before serving. If you don't have pumpkin puree, you can use applesauce. It will keep the texture moist. You can also use mashed banana for a different flavor. But keep in mind that both will alter the taste a bit. To reduce the sweetness, cut back on the granulated sugar and brown sugar. You can lower each by 1/4 cup. You can also use dark cocoa powder. It has less sugar than regular cocoa and gives a rich taste. For clean edges, use a sharp knife. First, let the brownies cool completely. Wipe the knife with a damp cloth after each cut. This prevents sticking and gives you nice, clean squares. If you like, you can chill them in the fridge for firmer cuts. We covered all you need to make the best brownies. From key ingredients to helpful tips, you now have the tools to bake with confidence. Substitutions can help fit your needs, and variations can spice up your recipe. Remember to cool your brownies properly for the best taste. With these steps and tricks, you can impress anyone with your brownies. Enjoy experimenting, and happy baking!

Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Brownies

Indulge in the flavors of fall with these delicious Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Brownies! Perfectly moist and rich, these brownies blend pumpkin puree and warm spices with a creamy cheesecake layer, creating a dessert that’s sure to impress. In just 55 minutes, you can bake a batch that serves 12. Ready to savor the season? Click through for the full recipe and treat your taste buds today!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup pumpkin puree

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup packed brown sugar

1/2 cup vegetable oil

2 large eggs

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

1/4 teaspoon salt

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup powdered sugar

1 tablespoon milk

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking pan by greasing it lightly, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk to mix these ingredients thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well blended.

      In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, and salt. This will ensure that all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

        Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender brownie texture.

          In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk. Beat with a hand mixer or whisk until the mixture is creamy and smooth, ensuring there are no lumps.

            Carefully pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula for a flat base layer.

              Using a spoon, dollop the cream cheese mixture over the brownie batter. Gently spread it to create a marbled effect, allowing some brownie batter to peek through.

                Pour the remaining brownie batter over the cream cheese layer. With a knife, gently swirl the two mixtures together to create a beautiful marbled design on top.

                  Bake the brownies in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. They are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean, with just a few moist crumbs adhering to it.

                    Once baked, let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before slicing them into squares.

                      Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes | Servings: 12

                        - Presentation Tips: For an eye-catching presentation, serve the brownies on a rustic wooden board dusted with powdered sugar. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flair. For a delightful finishing touch, top each brownie square with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice, inviting your guests to enjoy a bite of fall's finest flavors!