A decadent, fudgy brownie infused with a creamy, spiced pumpkin cheesecake swirl—perfect for cozy fall gatherings. Every bite combines rich chocolate and warm autumn flavors that make this treat both comforting and visually stunning.

Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I adore how these brownies offer a contrast between a dense, fudgy base and a light, creamy pumpkin cheesecake topping. The marbled swirl adds that “wow” factor without any extra effort—simple yet elegant. Baking these fills my kitchen with that irresistible pumpkin spice aroma, and they’re always a hit when I share them around.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Brownies

1 cup + 2 Tbsp bittersweet chocolate, chopped or chips
½ cup unsalted butter, cut into quarters
3 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
3 large eggs, room temperature
1¼ cups granulated sugar
2 tsp pure vanilla extract
½ tsp salt
1 cup all-purpose flour

Pumpkin Cheesecake Swirl

1 cup block cream cheese, room temperature
½ cup pure pumpkin purée
1 large egg, room temperature
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
½ tsp cinnamon
½ tsp pure vanilla extract

directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8-inch metal pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
Melt the chocolate and butter in a double boiler or heatproof bowl over simmering water. Whisk in the cocoa powder and let the mixture cool slightly.
In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar using a hand mixer until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla and salt. Slowly stream in the cooled chocolate mixture while mixing on low speed.
Stir in the flour until just combined. Reserve ¼ cup of the batter and pour the remaining into the prepared pan.
For the cheesecake layer, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the pumpkin purée, egg, sugar, spices, and vanilla. Mix until smooth and combined.
Drop spoonfuls of the pumpkin mixture over the brownie base and gently spread it evenly. Drop the reserved brownie batter on top and use a knife to swirl it into the cheesecake layer.
Bake for 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs or clean. Let the brownies cool completely before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

Makes 16 brownies

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Bake Time: 35 minutes
Cooling Time: approximately 2 hours
Total Time: about 2 hours 45 minutes

Variations

Add texture with ½ cup chopped walnuts stirred into the brownie batter after reserving some for the swirl.
Double the recipe in a 9×13-inch pan and extend the baking time by 3–5 minutes for around 24 servings.
Use a boxed brownie mix for convenience, then top with the homemade pumpkin cheesecake swirl.

storage/reheating

I store cooled brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They’re delicious chilled or at room temperature. For longer storage, I wrap and freeze them for up to 2 months, then defrost overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin purée instead of canned?

I wouldn’t—fresh purée often has too much moisture, which can affect the final texture of the cheesecake layer.

Can I use boxed brownie mix instead of homemade?

Yes, I often do that for convenience. I use the mix as the base and prepare the pumpkin cheesecake swirl separately.

Why are my brownies gooey in the center?

They’re meant to be fudgy. If I prefer a more cake-like texture, I add ¼ cup more flour and bake them 5 minutes longer.

Can I use low-fat or tub cream cheese?

I avoid those because they tend to be too soft. I always use regular block-style cream cheese for the best results.

Can I swap nuts or add mix-ins?

Definitely. I like adding ½ cup chopped walnuts, but chocolate chips or pecans also work well.

Conclusion

This recipe is one of my favorite ways to celebrate fall—rich, spiced, and perfect for sharing. I love how the velvety pumpkin cheesecake swirls over a dense chocolate base, creating layers of flavor and texture that feel special yet are simple to achieve. Whether for a cozy night in or a festive gathering, these brownies are sure to please!