Irresistible Fudgy Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies: Your Ultimate Fall Dessert Guide
As autumn leaves begin to fall and a crispness fills the air, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting dessert to embrace the season. Our Pumpkin Brownies stand out as the ultimate fall indulgence, perfectly blending two beloved treats: rich, fudgy chocolate brownies and a velvety, spiced pumpkin cream cheese swirl. This harmonious combination creates a truly irresistible dessert that’s both easy to prepare and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned baker looking for a homemade masterpiece or prefer the convenience of a box mix, this recipe offers flexibility without compromising on flavor, making it a perfect cozy treat for any occasion.
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About These Pumpkin Brownies
If you find yourself eagerly anticipating fall’s arrival, especially for its distinctive flavors and cozy treats, then these pumpkin brownies are tailor-made for you. As soon as the first hint of autumn is in the air, I’m ready to infuse classic desserts with a seasonal twist, which is precisely how these delightful pumpkin brownies came to be. They represent the perfect fusion of rich, intensely fudgy chocolate and a warmly spiced pumpkin cream cheese swirl, making every single bite taste like the very essence of fall.
While this site usually features recipes crafted entirely from scratch, sometimes a clever shortcut can elevate a dish without sacrificing quality or flavor. This versatility is what makes these brownies truly special! If your schedule is tight, simply grab your favorite boxed brownie mix, and a significant portion of the work is already handled. For those who enjoy baking from the ground up, feel free to use your go-to homemade brownie recipe. Regardless of your choice, the pumpkin cream cheese swirl is what truly sets these brownies apart, imparting that incredible fall flavor. The delightful combination of tangy cream cheese, smooth pumpkin purée, and layers of comforting spices – a blend of classic pumpkin pie spice and a hint of exotic cardamom – creates a truly unforgettable dessert that consistently steals the show.
These decadent brownies are ideal for your next fall potluck, a festive Halloween gathering, a warm Thanksgiving dessert, or simply whenever you’re craving that perfect harmony of chocolate and pumpkin. They are guaranteed to be a hit with everyone, offering a taste of autumn in every square.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s nothing more comforting than a dessert infused with the fragrant, warming spices of autumn. But beyond that undeniable cozy feeling, there are many more reasons why these pumpkin brownies will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen:
- Effortless Yet Impressive: This recipe delivers a truly impressive dessert with minimal fuss. The flexibility of using either a convenient box mix or your cherished homemade brownie batter means you can customize your effort level without sacrificing that “wow” factor. It’s a simple recipe with a massive payoff in flavor and presentation.
- Picture-Perfect Swirls: Achieve stunning bakery-quality swirls that make these brownies visually captivating. The marbled effect of chocolate and pumpkin is equally appealing to both adults and children, making them a centerpiece for any gathering.
- Harmonious Flavor Balance: Experience the perfect equilibrium between the deep, rich intensity of fudgy chocolate and the aromatic warmth of spiced pumpkin. Each bite is a delightful dance of contrasting yet complementary flavors and textures.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: These brownies are wonderfully versatile, making them ideal for a wide array of fall gatherings. From festive holiday celebrations like Thanksgiving and Halloween to casual potlucks, bake sales, or simply a quiet, indulgent coffee break at home, they fit every mood and moment.
- Seasonal Comfort: Embrace the spirit of autumn with a dessert that embodies seasonal comfort. The blend of pumpkin, cream cheese, and spices creates a treat that feels like a warm hug, perfect for crisp fall days.
Essential Ingredients for Pumpkin Brownies
Crafting these delectable pumpkin brownies requires a few key ingredients. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need to create this amazing fall treat:
- Brownie Batter: This recipe is incredibly adaptable! You can choose the convenience of an 18-ounce boxed brownie mix—just ensure you have the eggs, oil, and water it calls for ready. Alternatively, if you prefer baking from scratch, use your absolute favorite homemade brownie recipe. The beauty of this recipe is that it works seamlessly with either option, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences and time constraints.
- Chocolate Chips: The type of chocolate chips you choose can significantly impact the final flavor. We typically opt for rich dark chocolate or classic semi-sweet chocolate chips for a balanced sweetness. However, creamy milk chocolate chips or even sweet white chocolate chips would also work wonderfully, adding a different nuance to the chocolate layer. Feel free to use your favorite variety or even a mix!
- Cream Cheese: For a smooth, lump-free pumpkin cream cheese swirl, it is absolutely crucial that your cream cheese is softened to room temperature. This ensures it blends effortlessly into a silky, creamy layer. You can use either full-fat cream cheese for a richer texture or a low-fat alternative if you prefer.
- Granulated Sugar: This provides the necessary sweetness for both the brownie base (if homemade) and the pumpkin cream cheese layer. Its fine crystals dissolve easily, contributing to a smooth texture.
- Vanilla Extract: A staple in almost any dessert, vanilla extract enhances and rounds out the flavors of both the chocolate and pumpkin. We love making our own homemade vanilla extract for an extra boost of natural flavor, but high-quality store-bought extract works perfectly.
- Pumpkin Purée: This is a non-negotiable ingredient for achieving that authentic pumpkin flavor. It’s vital to use 100% pure pumpkin purée and not pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin pie filling comes pre-mixed with sugar and spices, which would throw off the carefully balanced flavors and sweetness of this recipe. Always check the label to ensure you’re getting pure canned pumpkin.
- Spices: A thoughtful combination of warming spices truly brings the fall essence to these brownies. We use classic pumpkin pie spice, which typically includes cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, along with a hint of earthy cardamom for an extra layer of depth and sophistication. If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice, you can substitute it with ground cinnamon and a pinch of ground nutmeg. For an even more complex profile, consider adding a tiny dash of allspice or ground ginger.
- Salt: Just a pinch of salt is essential in baking to balance the sweetness and enhance all the other flavors. It brightens up the chocolate and brings out the subtle notes of the pumpkin and spices. For an elevated finish, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt (like Maldon) on top of the baked brownies adds a delightful texture and a pop of savory contrast.
Essential Kitchen Tools
To successfully bring these delicious pumpkin brownies to life, having the right tools on hand will make the baking process smooth and enjoyable. Here are the must-haves for this recipe:
- 9×9-inch Baking Pan: This standard square pan is perfect for achieving the ideal thickness and fudginess for your brownies. Using a pan of this size ensures even baking and easy slicing into perfect squares.
- Parchment Paper: A true lifesaver for easy cleanup and removal. Lining your baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang on the sides, will allow you to effortlessly lift the cooled brownies out of the pan. This means no sticky situations and beautifully intact squares.
- Large Mixing Bowls: You’ll need at least two: one for your brownie batter and another for the pumpkin cream cheese layer. A set of durable metal mixing bowls is ideal for handling both tasks, allowing you to combine ingredients without spills.
- Wooden Spoon or Sturdy Spatula: Perfect for mixing the brownie batter by hand, especially if you’re using a box mix. A wooden spoon provides good leverage for folding in chocolate chips and ensuring everything is well combined without overmixing.
- Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: This is crucial for achieving that light, airy, and perfectly smooth cream cheese layer. A stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment or a reliable hand mixer will whip the softened cream cheese into a fluffy consistency, preventing any lumps and ensuring a luxurious texture for your pumpkin swirl.
- Rubber Spatula: Essential for scraping down the sides of your mixing bowls, ensuring all ingredients are incorporated, and for evenly spreading both the brownie batter and the pumpkin cream cheese layer in your baking pan.
- Toothpicks: A simple yet effective tool for checking the doneness of your brownies.
- Sharp Knife: For clean, precise cuts once the brownies are cooled.
How to Make Delicious Pumpkin Brownies
Creating these delightful pumpkin brownies is a straightforward process, combining classic chocolate fudge with a spiced pumpkin cream cheese swirl. Follow these steps for perfect results:
1. Prepare Your Baking Pan
Start by preheating your oven to the temperature specified on your brownie box mix or in your chosen homemade brownie recipe. This ensures your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking. Next, lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking pan. Then, line the greased pan with parchment paper, allowing an overhang on two opposite sides. This “sling” made of parchment paper will be your best friend when it comes to effortlessly lifting the cooled brownies out of the pan for clean slicing. Set the prepared pan aside.
2. Prepare the Brownie Batter
Whether you’re using a boxed mix or a homemade recipe, prepare your brownie batter according to the instructions. If using a boxed mix, this typically involves combining the dry mix with wet ingredients like eggs, vegetable oil, and water. For a homemade recipe, follow its specific steps. Once your batter is mixed to a smooth, luscious consistency, gently fold in the chocolate chips. Be careful not to overmix; overmixing can lead to tougher brownies. If your chosen brownie recipe already includes chocolate chips, you can omit the extra ones called for in this recipe to avoid an excessive amount. Set the prepared brownie batter aside while you work on the pumpkin layer.
3. Create the Pumpkin Cream Cheese Layer
In a large mixing bowl, ideally with a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment or using a hand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s wonderfully light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2 minutes. Ensuring your cream cheese is at room temperature is key here to prevent lumps and achieve a silky-smooth consistency. Next, add the granulated sugar and beat until it’s just combined. Pour in the vanilla extract, beating until it’s fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth. Finally, add the pumpkin purée (remember, not pumpkin pie filling!), pumpkin pie spice, ground cardamom, and salt. Continue to beat until the mixture is uniform, creamy, and beautifully smooth, without any streaks.
4. Assemble Your Brownies
Now it’s time to assemble your masterpiece! Spread exactly half of the prepared brownie batter evenly into the bottom of your parchment-lined baking pan. Use a spatula to gently smooth it into a consistent layer. Next, carefully spoon the entire pumpkin cream cheese layer over the chocolate brownie base, spreading it out evenly with your spatula until it covers the brownie batter completely. Finally, dollop the remaining brownie batter over the pumpkin cream cheese layer. To create that signature beautiful swirl, take the tip of a butter knife and gently drag it through the dolloped brownie batter and pumpkin layer in a figure-eight motion. Be mindful not to let the knife sink too deep, as this can cause the layers to completely merge and you’ll lose that gorgeous marbled effect. A light, delicate touch is all you need for the perfect swirl.
5. Bake to Perfection
Place your assembled brownies into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 40 to 45 minutes. The baking time can vary slightly depending on your oven and whether you used a box mix or homemade batter, so keep an eye on them. You’ll know they’re ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs clinging to it, but not wet batter. It’s crucial not to overbake these brownies, as this will result in a dry, less fudgy texture. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This cooling period is essential for the brownies to set properly and achieve their ultimate fudgy texture. Once fully cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire slab of brownies from the pan, then slice them into perfect squares using a sharp knife for clean edges.
Tips for Success
To ensure your pumpkin brownies turn out perfectly fudgy and beautifully swirled every single time, keep these essential tips in mind:
- Room Temperature Cream Cheese is Non-Negotiable: This is arguably the most important tip for your pumpkin layer. Always use cream cheese that has been softened to room temperature. If the cream cheese is cold, it will be difficult to beat smoothly, resulting in small, undesirable lumps in your pumpkin filling. Take it out of the fridge at least an hour before you plan to bake.
- Gentle Swirling for a Perfect Marble Effect: When creating the swirl, remember that less is often more. A gentle, artistic figure-eight motion with the tip of a knife is all that’s needed. If you overdo it or press the knife too deep into the batter, the distinct layers will completely mix, and you’ll lose that gorgeous, defined marbled appearance on top of the brownies. Aim for a delicate touch to achieve beautiful streaks of pumpkin and chocolate.
- Achieve Clean Slices with Chilling and a Clean Knife: For perfectly sharp, clean squares that look like they came from a professional bakery, allow the brownies to cool completely, then chill them in the refrigerator for at least an hour (or even overnight) before cutting. Additionally, wipe your knife clean with a damp paper towel between each cut. This prevents sticky residue from blurring your edges and ensures every piece is pristine.
- Don’t Overbake for Optimal Fudginess: Overbaking is the enemy of a fudgy brownie. Keep a close watch on your brownies during the last 10-15 minutes of baking. The toothpick test should yield a few moist crumbs, not wet batter, and certainly not a completely clean toothpick. A clean toothpick means they’re likely overdone and will result in a drier, more cake-like texture rather than the desired fudgy interior.
- Accurate Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven thermostat is accurate. An oven thermometer can be a worthy investment, as oven temperatures can vary significantly from what is displayed, impacting bake time and the final texture of your brownies.
- Use the Right Pan Size: Stick to the recommended 9×9-inch pan. Using a larger or smaller pan will affect the baking time and the thickness of your brownies, potentially altering their texture and doneness.
Delicious Variations to Try
While these pumpkin brownies are fantastic as is, they also lend themselves beautifully to creative variations. Feel free to experiment and make them your own!
- Change Up Your Chocolate: Instead of traditional chocolate chips, try swapping them for white chocolate chips for a sweeter, creamier contrast with the pumpkin, or rich butterscotch chips for an extra layer of caramel-like flavor that pairs wonderfully with fall spices. You could also chop up your favorite chocolate bar for varied texture.
- Add a Nutty Crunch: For those who love a bit of texture in their brownies, fold in a half cup of chopped pecans, walnuts, or even candied almonds into the brownie batter. This adds a delightful crunch and a subtle nutty flavor that complements the chocolate and pumpkin.
- Go Gluten-Free: It’s incredibly easy to make this recipe gluten-free! Simply use your preferred gluten-free boxed brownie mix. Most gluten-free mixes perform very similarly to their conventional counterparts, ensuring you don’t miss out on any of the deliciousness.
- Elevate with Homemade Brownie Batters: If you’re using a homemade brownie batter, the possibilities are endless! Customize your base to your liking. For a sophisticated coffee-infused treat, try using the batter from our coffee brownies. If you’re a true chocolate connoisseur and want an extra intense chocolate experience, the batter for our triple chocolate brownies would be an incredible choice.
- Different Spice Blends: While pumpkin pie spice and cardamom are fantastic, you could also try a touch of ginger, allspice, or a pinch of cloves in your pumpkin layer for a slightly different aromatic profile.
- Top with Frosting or Glaze: Once cooled, these brownies can be topped with a light dusting of powdered sugar, a simple vanilla glaze, or even a cream cheese frosting for an extra layer of indulgence.
Craving more indulgent brownie recipes? Discover our Biscoff Brownies, delightful Nutella Brownie Bites, romantic Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies, and festive Red Velvet Brownies!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?
No, it is highly recommended that you do not use pumpkin pie filling for this recipe. Pumpkin pie filling is a completely different product from pure pumpkin purée. It typically contains added sugars, milk, and a blend of spices already mixed in. Using it would significantly alter the sweetness and spice balance of our pumpkin cream cheese layer, making the brownies excessively sweet and potentially giving them an overpowering spice flavor that isn’t desired. Always look for cans labeled “100% pure pumpkin” or “pumpkin purée” for the best results in this recipe.
Can I make these with homemade brownies instead of a mix?
Absolutely! This recipe is designed to be versatile. You can certainly use your favorite homemade brownie recipe. Simply prepare your homemade brownie batter up until the point where you would normally pour it into the pan. Then, refer back to this recipe and proceed with making the pumpkin cream cheese layer, followed by the layering, swirling, and baking instructions provided here. The key is to have your brownie batter ready before assembling the layers.
How do I get the perfect swirl on top?
Achieving that gorgeous, distinct swirl is easier than you think! After you’ve spread the pumpkin cream cheese layer over the first half of the brownie batter, dollop the remaining brownie batter in spoonfuls randomly over the pumpkin layer. Then, take the tip of a butter knife or a skewer and gently drag it through the dollops and the pumpkin layer in a continuous figure-eight or S-shaped motion. The trick is to avoid pressing too deeply or over-swirling, as this can cause the layers to blend completely and you’ll lose the beautiful marbled effect. A light hand and just a few passes are all you need to create captivating streaks of color and flavor.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can easily double this recipe to feed a larger crowd or for more delicious leftovers! To do so, you will need to use a larger 9×13-inch baking pan instead of the 9×9-inch pan. When doubling, be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly; it will likely require an additional 10-15 minutes or more, so keep a close eye on the brownies and perform the toothpick test to ensure they are baked through without being overdone.
Can I freeze pumpkin brownies?
Absolutely! These pumpkin brownies freeze beautifully, making them an excellent make-ahead dessert. To freeze them, ensure the brownies are completely cooled. Then, wrap each individual brownie tightly in plastic wrap. Once wrapped, place the individually wrapped brownies into a resealable freezer-safe bag or an airtight container, ensuring as much air as possible is removed to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the brownies at room temperature for a few hours or in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Need more inspiration for a sweet treat? Check out my dessert recipes page for a wide array of delightful options!
What to Serve with Pumpkin Brownies
These pumpkin brownies are undeniably delicious on their own, offering a perfect blend of rich chocolate and spiced pumpkin. However, you can elevate your dessert experience even further with a few thoughtful pairings:
- Classic à la Mode: For an ultimate fall-inspired sundae, serve a warm pumpkin brownie with a generous scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The cold, creamy ice cream melting into the warm, fudgy brownie creates an incredible textural and temperature contrast. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of toasted pecans would be an added bonus!
- Coffee & Tea Pairings: Complement the warming spices with your favorite hot beverage. A steaming mug of a creamy latte, a comforting chai tea latte, or even a robust cup of black coffee would be perfect companions. The bitterness of coffee can beautifully cut through the sweetness of the brownie.
- Elegant Wine Pairing: For an adult indulgence, pair these brownies with a glass of red wine. A Zinfandel or a fruity Merlot with notes of berries and spice can surprisingly complement the rich chocolate and pumpkin flavors.
- Whipped Cream or Crème Fraîche: A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a spoonful of tangy crème fraîche can lighten the richness of the brownies, adding a refreshing element to each bite.
- Cinnamon Dusted Treats: A light dusting of ground cinnamon or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt (if not already added) can enhance the flavor profile right before serving.
How to Store Pumpkin Brownies
Proper storage is key to keeping your pumpkin brownies fresh and delicious, especially because of the cream cheese layer.
- Refrigeration for Freshness: Due to the cream cheese component, these brownies must be stored in the refrigerator. Place them in an airtight container, preferably layering them between pieces of parchment paper to prevent sticking. Stored this way, they will maintain their moisture and delicious texture for up to 5 days.
- Freezing for Long-Term Enjoyment: For longer storage, pumpkin brownies freeze exceptionally well. Once they are completely cooled, wrap each individual brownie tightly in plastic wrap. Then, transfer the wrapped brownies into a freezer-safe bag or an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months without compromising flavor or texture.
- Thawing Instructions: To enjoy your frozen brownies, simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. You can also let them come to room temperature on the counter for a quicker thaw, or even gently warm them in the microwave for a few seconds for that freshly baked feel.
More of Our Favorite Pumpkin Desserts
If you’re as enamored with pumpkin as we are, you’ll love exploring these other fantastic fall-inspired dessert recipes from our kitchen:
- Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies: These delightful cookies offer the best of both worlds – a soft, chewy pumpkin-spiced cookie exterior with a delightful, creamy cheesecake surprise baked right into the middle. They’re a perfect handheld treat for any fall occasion.
- Caramel Stuffed Pumpkin Cookies: Prepare for an explosion of flavor! These cookies combine the rich warmth of pumpkin and gooey caramel with just the right amount of chocolate chips, creating a new favorite spin on your traditional chocolate chip cookie recipe. Each bite is a sweet, unexpected delight.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice Cookies: Essentially the quintessential fall version of the beloved snickerdoodle, these cookies are soft, chewy, and coated in a sugary, spiced mixture. They are incredibly easy to make and quickly become an instant family favorite, perfect for sharing during the autumn months.
Finally, if you decide to make this incredible pumpkin brownies recipe, please be sure to give this recipe a star rating on the recipe card below and/or leave a comment! Your feedback is invaluable, and I truly love to hear about your experiences when you recreate our recipes. I make it a point to read and respond to every single comment, so don’t hesitate to share your thoughts or ask any questions you might have!
Oh, and be sure to tag me on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest if you make the recipe! Seeing these recipes come to life in your homes is truly my favorite thing, and I absolutely adore looking through all your wonderful photos. It honestly means the world to me!
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Pumpkin Swirl Brownies
Equipment
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9-Inch Baking Pan
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Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls
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Stand Mixer
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Long Wooden Spoon / Sturdy Spatula
Ingredients
- 1 18 ounces brownie box mix or prepare your favorite homemade brownie batter (plus any ingredients required for the mix, such as eggs, oil, water)
- 2/3 cup chocolate chips choose your favorite: milk, dark, or semi-sweet work perfectly!
- 6 oz cream cheese softened to room temperature
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 7.5 ounces pure pumpkin puree approximately 1/2 can; ensure it’s not pumpkin pie filling
- 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on your brownie box mix package or in your chosen homemade brownie recipe. This ensures even baking from the start.
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Lightly spray a 9×9-inch baking pan with cooking spray. Then, line the pan with parchment paper, leaving a generous overhang on two opposite sides. This parchment paper “sling” will help you easily lift the cooled brownies out of the pan. Set the prepared pan aside.
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Prepare your brownie batter according to the package instructions (for a box mix, remember to include any required wet ingredients like eggs, oil, and water) or follow your favorite homemade brownie recipe. Once the batter is ready, gently stir in the chocolate chips. If your brownie recipe already includes chocolate chips, you can omit adding extra at this step. Set the brownie batter aside.
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In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or using a large bowl and a hand mixer), beat the softened cream cheese until it is light, fluffy, and completely smooth, which typically takes about 2 minutes. Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid lumps.
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Add the granulated sugar to the cream cheese and beat until it’s just combined. Next, pour in the vanilla extract and continue to beat until the mixture is fully combined and smooth.
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Now, add the pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, ground cardamom, and salt to the cream cheese mixture. Beat everything together until the mixture is perfectly smooth, creamy, and all ingredients are well combined.
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Spread approximately half of the prepared brownie batter evenly into the bottom of your parchment-lined baking pan. Use a spatula to create a smooth and even layer.
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Carefully spoon the entire pumpkin cream cheese mixture over the brownie layer. Gently spread it out into an even layer using your spatula, ensuring it covers the chocolate base.
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Dollop the remaining brownie batter in spoonfuls randomly on top of the pumpkin layer. To create that beautiful marble swirl, use the tip of a knife and gently drag it through the dolloped batter and pumpkin mixture in a figure-eight or S-shaped motion. Remember, a light hand is best; avoid digging too deep or over-swirling to maintain distinct layers.
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Bake the brownies for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it. Be careful not to overbake, as this can result in dry brownies rather than fudgy ones.
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Once baked, let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This is crucial for them to set properly and achieve their fudgy texture. Once fully cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to carefully lift the entire slab of brownies from the pan. Cut them into neat squares using a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between cuts for the best presentation. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.