These Pumpkin Brookies bring together the best of both worlds: the fudgy richness of brownies and the soft, chewy texture of cookies. The addition of pumpkin puree enhances the flavor, making these treats perfect for fall. The balance of milk and white chocolate chips, along with a touch of nuts, creates a delightful bite every time.
These treats not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also evoke the cozy comfort of autumn with their warm spices and velvety texture. Whether you enjoy them with a warm cup of coffee or share them with friends, Pumpkin Brookies are a fun and delicious way to celebrate the season.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
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1/2 teaspoon baking soda
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
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1 cup brown sugar
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1 large egg
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
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1/4 cup milk chocolate chips
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1/4 cup white chocolate chips
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1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
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In a large bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer until light and fluffy.
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Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and beat until well combined. Then add the pumpkin puree and mix until smooth.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until fully combined.
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Fold in the milk chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, and walnuts (if using).
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Drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
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Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are firm and the centers are slightly soft. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 22 minutes
Kcal: 180 kcal | Servings: 18 cookies
Why Pumpkin and Chocolate Are a Match Made in Heaven
At first glance, it may seem like an unusual pairing, but pumpkin and chocolate are actually a perfect match. The rich, earthy flavor of pumpkin enhances the sweetness of the chocolate, creating a balanced and satisfying taste. The natural sweetness and moisture of the pumpkin complement the deep, rich flavor of chocolate, making every bite of these Pumpkin Brookies irresistible. Additionally, the pumpkin adds a subtle spiced flavor that elevates the dessert to a new level, giving it that warm, comforting taste we crave during the colder months.
The Appeal of Brookies: Brownie Meets Cookie
Brookies are a hybrid dessert that combines the best features of brownies and cookies. The fudgy, dense texture of brownies is paired with the chewiness and soft edges of a cookie, making them a versatile treat for any occasion. Whether you are a brownie lover or a cookie enthusiast, you’ll find this dessert a delightful balance between both. Pumpkin Brookies offer the indulgence of a rich, decadent brownie but with the soft, comforting texture of a cookie, making them perfect for cozy nights at home, autumn gatherings, or even as a unique dessert for Thanksgiving.
Why Pumpkin Brookies are Ideal for Fall Baking
When fall arrives, it brings with it a variety of flavors that are perfect for baking. Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove infuse everything with warmth, while pumpkin puree adds both flavor and moisture to baked goods. These ingredients are often associated with the season, making Pumpkin Brookies an ideal choice for fall baking. The richness of the pumpkin gives the dessert a velvety texture, while the chocolate adds sweetness and depth, making it a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults.
Moreover, pumpkin puree has health benefits. While it is often used in sweet baked goods, it is low in calories and packed with vitamins such as vitamin A, which supports vision and skin health, as well as vitamin C, which boosts immunity. When baked into these Pumpkin Brookies, pumpkin not only enhances the flavor but also provides a nutritional boost, making it a slightly healthier indulgence.
A Versatile Treat for Every Occasion
One of the best things about Pumpkin Brookies is their versatility. Whether you’re preparing a batch for a fall bake sale, a cozy weekend at home, or a holiday dinner, these delicious treats will be a hit. Their combination of soft cookie and fudgy brownie textures makes them a great option for dessert tables, as they are easy to serve and can be cut into bite-sized pieces for guests to enjoy. These Pumpkin Brookies are also portable, making them an excellent choice for taking to gatherings or picnics. Their decadent yet balanced flavor works well with a wide variety of beverages, from hot cocoa and coffee to apple cider or tea.
How to Customize Your Pumpkin Brookies
While the classic Pumpkin Brookie recipe is already delicious, it’s always fun to experiment with different variations. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your personal taste or dietary preferences. For example, if you want to add a bit of crunch, you can incorporate nuts such as walnuts or pecans into the dough. These nuts will provide an extra layer of texture that complements the soft and chewy nature of the cookies. Additionally, you could use dark chocolate or milk chocolate chips instead of the white chocolate chips for a richer, more intense chocolate flavor.
If you’re following a vegan or dairy-free diet, you can swap out the butter for a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free chocolate chips. For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. These small changes can easily transform the Pumpkin Brookies to meet dietary needs while keeping the flavor just as satisfying.
Pumpkin Brookies for Every Level of Baker
Whether you’re an experienced baker or someone just starting in the kitchen, this Pumpkin Brookie recipe is accessible to all. The steps are simple and easy to follow, making it a great choice for beginners who want to create something impressive with minimal effort. The ingredients are easy to find at any grocery store, and the baking process doesn’t require any special skills or tools. For more advanced bakers, there’s plenty of room for creativity and customization, whether that’s experimenting with different types of chocolate or adding extra ingredients like caramel swirls or a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an added flavor contrast.
The Perfect Pairing: Beverages to Enjoy with Pumpkin Brookies
While Pumpkin Brookies are delicious on their own, pairing them with a beverage can enhance the experience even further. The natural sweetness of pumpkin and the richness of the chocolate make these treats the perfect companion to a hot beverage. A steaming cup of coffee or espresso can bring out the depth of the chocolate, while a latte or cappuccino adds a creamy element that complements the soft texture of the cookies. For a fall-inspired pairing, a hot apple cider or spiced chai tea would enhance the warmth and spiced flavors of the Pumpkin Brookies.
If you’re looking for something a bit more decadent, try serving your Pumpkin Brookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The cold, creamy contrast pairs wonderfully with the chewy and fudgy texture of the cookies, creating a dessert experience that’s hard to beat.
Why You Should Make Pumpkin Brookies This Season
Pumpkin Brookies are the perfect way to embrace the flavors of fall and indulge in a treat that’s both comforting and satisfying. With their combination of soft cookies and fudgy brownies, these delightful treats are sure to be a hit with anyone who loves pumpkin, chocolate, or both. Not only are they easy to make, but they also offer endless opportunities for customization, whether that means adding nuts, using different types of chocolate, or making substitutions to suit dietary preferences.
These Pumpkin Brookies are more than just a seasonal dessert—they’re a celebration of fall’s best flavors in one bite. Whether you enjoy them as a cozy treat at home, share them at a fall gathering, or even present them at a holiday dinner, Pumpkin Brookies are bound to become a favorite in your fall baking repertoire.
Conclusion: A Must-Try Fall Dessert
In conclusion, Pumpkin Brookies are a delightful and indulgent dessert that blends the rich, fudgy texture of brownies with the chewy, comforting quality of cookies. They embody the essence of fall with their combination of pumpkin, chocolate, and warm spices, making them a perfect treat for this season. Easy to make and customizable, these brookies are ideal for both beginner and experienced bakers alike. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or enjoying them solo with a warm beverage, these Pumpkin Brookies are sure to make your fall baking experience extra special.