Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies Recipe

If you’re anything like me and love the flavors of fall with a rich, fudgy chocolate twist, then you’re going to adore this Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies Recipe. I absolutely love how these brownies come out perfectly moist and bursting with pumpkin spice goodness, all swirled together with a tangy cream cheese layer that makes every bite unforgettable. Stick around because I’m sharing all my best tips so you can easily nail these beauties in your own kitchen!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together like a dream — rich chocolatey brownies paired with a creamy pumpkin swirl that’s perfectly spiced. I recommend looking for pumpkin puree without added sugars or spices to keep flavor balanced, and if you can get neufchatel cream cheese, even better for that light tang.

• Store-bought brownie mix: Picking a higher-quality brownie mix means better texture and flavor with less fuss.
• Chocolate chips or chopped chocolate bar: Adds extra melty chocolate pockets throughout the brownies.
• Neufchatel or full-fat cream cheese: Softened cream cheese is key to a smooth pumpkin swirl.
• Pumpkin puree: Opt for canned pure pumpkin (not pie filling) so you control the spices and sweetness.
• Pure maple syrup: I love this natural sweetener–it pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
• Pumpkin pie spice: A little goes a long way to deepen the fall flavor.
• Pure vanilla extract: Brings all the flavors together warmly.
• Flaky sea salt: This is my secret finishing touch that balances the sweetness and brings out the chocolate.

Variations

I love playing around with this Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies Recipe depending on the season and what flavors I’m craving. Feel free to tweak it to your taste — that’s part of the fun of baking!

• Add chopped nuts: I’ve added walnuts or pecans for a lovely crunch that complements the soft texture beautifully.
• Swap maple syrup for honey or agave: This works great if you want to try a different natural sweetener or adjust sweetness levels.
• Use dairy-free cream cheese: If you’re avoiding dairy, I’ve had success with plant-based cream cheese alternatives, just make sure they’re soft and spreadable.
• Boost the spices: My family loves it with a little extra cinnamon and ginger, especially as it gets colder outside.

How to Make Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Prep Like a Pro

Start by preheating your oven to 350℉ and line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper — trust me, this step saves you a world of trouble when it’s time to get these beauties out of the pan. Once that’s done, get your brownie mix ready according to the package instructions, and fold in the chocolate chips for extra melty goodness.

Step 2: Whip Up the Pumpkin Cream Cheese Layer

This part is where the magic happens! In a separate bowl, beat your softened cream cheese until it’s silky smooth before adding in the pumpkin puree, maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla. Mixing this well is key — I like to use a hand mixer for a perfectly creamy texture every time.

Step 3: Layer & Swirl the Batters

Spread about three-quarters of your brownie batter evenly in the prepared pan. Next, gently layer on your pumpkin cream cheese mixture. Then dollop the remaining brownie batter in small spoonfuls over the pumpkin layer. Grab a knife and gently swirl everything together — you’ll see those gorgeous marble patterns forming, which is absolutely irresistible.

Step 4: Bake and Finish

Bake the brownies for 45 to 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Once out of the oven, sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top — this little touch adds a wonderful contrast to the rich chocolate and pumpkin flavors. Let the brownies cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into 16 squares.

How to Serve Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies Recipe

Garnishes

I usually sprinkle flaky sea salt right after baking because it brings out the sweetness and adds a subtle crunch that’s just irresistible. Sometimes I dust a little powdered sugar or top a square with whipped cream for a decadent finish — but honestly, they’re luscious enough on their own!

Side Dishes

These brownies are great solo, but if you’re serving them as part of a dessert spread, try pairing with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of cinnamon-spiced coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy treat.

Creative Ways to Present

I’ve served these Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies Recipe at fall parties by cutting them into bite-sized squares and arranging on a pretty wooden platter with autumn leaves and mini pumpkins as decor. You can also drizzle them with a bit of caramel sauce or sprinkle chopped toasted pecans on top for a festive touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days — the flavor actually gets better as the pumpkin and spices meld. If you want to keep them longer, refrigeration works well too, just bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezing

Freezing these brownies is a total lifesaver when I want to prep ahead. I wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw at room temperature or warm gently in the microwave.

Reheating

To reheat, I pop a brownie in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, depending on your microwave. It revives that ooey-gooey texture perfectly. If you prefer, pop them in a warm oven wrapped in foil to keep moist.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies Recipe has become my go-to when I want to impress friends or just treat myself during the fall season. It’s one of those recipes that’s both easy to make and feels special, with the perfect balance of chocolate, pumpkin, and cream cheese flavors. I hope you enjoy baking it as much as I do — once you try it, I bet it’ll become a permanent part of your dessert rotation too!

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