Name: Fudgy Pumpkin Brownies with Cheesecake Swirl Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¾ cup unsalted butter; ⅔ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 3 large eggs; 1 large egg yolk; 1 cup brown sugar (not packed); ½ cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; ½ tsp salt; 1 ⅓ cups whole wheat pastry flour; 8 oz cream cheese (softened to room temperature); ⅓ cup granulated sugar; 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice; 1 large egg white; ⅔ cup canned pumpkin puree

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 56 reviews

If you’re dreaming of a dessert that perfectly captures the cozy spirit of fall, look no further than the Fudgy Pumpkin Brownies with Cheesecake Swirl Recipe. This wonderful treat marries the rich, chocolatey depth of fudgy brownies with a luscious, spiced pumpkin cheesecake swirl that sings with autumn warmth. Each bite delivers a moist, indulgent texture along with the delicate dance of pumpkin pie spices and creamy cheesecake, making it an irresistible dessert to bake again and again as the leaves turn crisp and the air gets brisk.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A silver baking pan lined with parchment paper holds an unbaked dessert with a smooth light orange layer spread evenly at the bottom. On top, there are five irregular dollops of dark brown thick batter scattered across the surface, each with a rough texture and slightly swirled appearance. The pan sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of the Fudgy Pumpkin Brownies with Cheesecake Swirl Recipe comes from a handful of simple, carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a special role—whether it’s giving you that fudgy texture, the perfect pumpkin flavor, or that creamy cheesecake layer that sets this dessert apart from ordinary brownies.

¾ cup unsalted butter: Provides a luxurious richness and helps create a fudgy brownie base.
⅔ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melt into the batter for deep, melty chocolate flavor.
3 large eggs: Adds structure and moisture to keep brownies dense yet tender.
1 large egg yolk: Enriches the batter for an extra fudgy texture.
1 cup brown sugar (not packed): Brings caramel-like sweetness and moistness.
½ cup granulated sugar: Balances sweetness and helps with the brownie’s tender crumb.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors, adding warmth and depth.
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Gives intense chocolate flavor without extra fat.
½ tsp salt: Intensifies chocolate flavor and balances sweetness.
1 ⅓ cups whole wheat pastry flour: Adds subtle nuttiness and gives a slightly wholesome touch without compromising softness.
8 oz cream cheese (softened to room temperature): Key to the creamy, dreamy cheesecake swirl.
⅓ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the pumpkin cheesecake layer just right.
2 tsp pumpkin pie spice: Brings classic fall flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to the cheesecake.
1 large egg white: Lightens the cheesecake mixture while helping it set.
⅔ cup canned pumpkin puree: Adds that unmistakable pumpkin earthiness and moisture.

How to Make Fudgy Pumpkin Brownies with Cheesecake Swirl Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Melt Chocolate

To kick things off, preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×9 baking pan by either lining it with parchment paper or giving it a good greasing. Then, over low heat in a small saucepan, melt the butter and semi-sweet chocolate chips together, stirring frequently until glossy and smooth. This luscious mixture is the foundation of your brownie layer and needs to cool a bit before blending with the eggs.

Step 2: Whip Up the Pumpkin Cheesecake Layer

Next, take your stand mixer and beat the softened cream cheese until perfectly smooth. Add in the granulated sugar and pumpkin pie spice, beating until the blend is uniform and aromatic. Toss in the egg white and continue mixing until creamy, then fold in the canned pumpkin puree until it’s fully combined. This spiced pumpkin cheesecake layer will give the brownies their signature swirl of seasonal flavor.

Step 3: Mix Together the Brownie Batter

In a clean mixing bowl, pulse together the 3 whole eggs, extra egg yolk, brown sugar, half a cup of granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy. While mixing on low speed, slowly add the cooled melted chocolate and butter mixture so everything blends beautifully without scrambling the eggs. Stir in the cocoa powder, salt, and whole wheat pastry flour until you have a thick, fudgy batter—pure brownie goodness in the making.

Step 4: Layer and Swirl Your Brownies

Before assembling, scoop out about ¾ cup of the brownie batter and set it aside. Pour the rest of your rich brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan, spreading it all the way to the edges. Spoon the creamy pumpkin cheesecake layer directly on top, smoothing it out carefully. Then dollop the reserved brownie batter over the pumpkin layer and use a butter knife to gently swirl everything together—this swirl is the heart and soul of the Fudgy Pumpkin Brownies with Cheesecake Swirl Recipe.

Step 5: Bake, Cool, and Slice

Bake your masterpiece in the oven for 40 to 45 minutes. You’re looking for a toothpick inserted into the center to come out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs clinging on—that means fudgy but set. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing into 16 squares that you’ll be proud to serve and share.

How to Serve Fudgy Pumpkin Brownies with Cheesecake Swirl Recipe

A close-up view of a baked dessert cut into square pieces, showing two main layers: the bottom layer is dark brown and dense, and the top layer is a marbled swirl of golden yellow and dark brown, creating a smooth, wavy pattern. Each square is neatly separated, and the surface looks soft and slightly textured with the swirls creating a glossy effect. The image background has a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate these already stunning brownies, consider a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce over the top. A sprinkle of chopped pecans or toasted pumpkin seeds adds a delightful crunch and festive flair. For an extra seasonal touch, a dollop of whipped cream paired with a pinch of cinnamon will have everyone swooning.

Side Dishes

These rich brownies are perfect companions to a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of freshly brewed coffee or chai tea. The creamy ice cream cuts through the richness beautifully, while warm spiced beverages complement the pumpkin pie spices beautifully. Serve alongside a fresh fruit salad with apple and pear slices for a balanced finish.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your brownies in cute individual jars or ramekins for a charming dessert presentation. You can also cut them into bite-sized squares and stack them on a rustic wooden board alongside bowls of nuts, whipped cream, and small spoons for a casual yet elegant fall dessert spread. Wrapping individual brownies in parchment and tying with twine makes for sweet homemade gifts that friends and family will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any of these delightful Fudgy Pumpkin Brownies with Cheesecake Swirl Recipe left (and honestly, who won’t?), store them in an airtight container at room temperature where they’ll stay fresh and moist for up to three days. You can also refrigerate for up to five days if you prefer them chilled or want a bit more longevity.

Freezing

For longer storage, these brownies freeze wonderfully. Once fully cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen brownies keep their luscious texture for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature for about 30 to 60 minutes—just enough time to get excited for your first bite.

Reheating

If you love your brownies warm (and who doesn’t?), pop individual squares in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds. They’ll become gooey and irresistible, especially with a scoop of ice cream on the side. You can also warm them briefly in a low oven wrapped in foil if you want to reheat multiple brownies at once.

FAQs

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat pastry flour?

Yes! Using all-purpose flour will still yield deliciously fudgy brownies. The whole wheat pastry flour adds a subtle nuttiness and a bit more fiber, but all-purpose flour is a great stand-in if that’s what you have on hand.

Is it necessary to soften the cream cheese for the cheesecake layer?

Softening the cream cheese is key for a smooth, creamy cheesecake layer. Cold cream cheese won’t blend well and could make your mixture lumpy, so be sure to let it sit out until it’s soft but not melted.

Can I make these brownies dairy-free or vegan?

This particular recipe relies on butter, cream cheese, and eggs for its structure and flavor, so adapting it would require significant substitutions. If you want to try, consider vegan cream cheese and egg replacers, but keep in mind the texture might differ from the traditional fudgy pumpkin brownies with cheesecake swirl recipe.

Why do I need to reserve some brownie batter before layering?

Reserving some brownie batter allows you to create those beautiful swirls on top of the pumpkin cheesecake layer. This swirl effect is key for combining two distinct but complementary flavors in each bite.

How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted just off-center comes out mostly clean, with a few moist crumbs attached. This ensures the brownies stay fudgy and aren’t overbaked.

Final Thoughts

Honestly, once you’ve made the Fudgy Pumpkin Brownies with Cheesecake Swirl Recipe, it’s hard to go back to any other pumpkin dessert. The interplay of rich chocolate and creamy pumpkin cheesecake is pure magic and just what you want to cozy up with during the fall months. From casual family nights to festive gatherings, these brownies bring warmth, comfort, and a touch of elegance you’ll be proud to share. So grab your ingredients and bake a batch—you’ll be amazed at how quickly they disappear!

Fudgy Pumpkin Brownies with Cheesecake Swirl Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need