October 20, 2024

Delight in Every Bite: Pumpkin Swirl Brownies

October 20, 2024/ Amanda Warren

The love of the smell of freshly baked brownies is universal, but when autumn arrives, incorporating the essence of the season into the classic treats leads a delightful recipe. These Pumpkin Swirl Brownies are a perfect blend of deep chocolate tones and the comforting spices of a pumpkin pie. This dessert is a symphony of flavors that echoes the spirit of the fall season. Chocolate and pumpkin might just be the unsung heroes of the autumn flavor palette. Not only do Pumpkin Swirl Brownies satisfy that deep, chocolaty craving, but they also embrace the nostalgia of pumpkin pie spices. Crafting these brownies involves preparing a chocolate brownie batter and a pumpkin spice blend separately. Layering and swirling the two batters together creates a beautiful, marbled design. The result is a creation that not only looks impressive but delivers a complexity of flavors that will have everyone rushing to the kitchen.

In this simple yet exquisite dessert, each ingredient plays an important role. To achieve the perfect Pumpkin Swirl Brownie, you'll need brownie ingredients, pumpkin layer and a good swirl technique. Begin by sourcing fresh, quality ingredients, including real pumpkin puree, not just for its taste but for the moistness it lends. For the brownie this includes classics like melted chocolate or cocoa powder, flour, sugar, and butter that provide the dense and chocolatey foundation. For the pumpkin layer it will be made with real pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, as this mixture infuses the brownies with the season's signature scents and tastes. Lastly, achieving the swirl technique involves adding dollops of pumpkin mixture atop the brownie batter and artfully swirling with a knife.

The Art of Swirling Success:

- Place spoonsful of pumpkin batter about an inch apart on top of the chocolate layer.

- Using the tip of a knife or toothpick, glide through the batters in a swirling motion to create a marbled effect.

- Tap the pan gently on the countertop to settle the batter and enhance the swirls' visibility.

- For a pronounced pattern, use a consistent swirling motion.

- To enhance the effect, alternate the swirl direction between adjacent rows.

- Remember, less is more, and over-swirling can muddy the distinct flavors.

The swirling not only makes for a stunning presentation but also allows every bite to deliver a great fusion of flavors. Visual appeal is half the treat with these brownies. Achieving it is a simple, yet delicate process so be sure to follow these steps on how to swirl brownies.

Pro Tips for Ultimate Brownie Success

Crafting perfection requires more than a just a recipe, it also at times requires a certain finesse. Some expert tips on how to achieve this for the best pumpkin brownies are as follows. First don't skimp on the good stuff, find high-quality chocolate. The type of chocolate you use matters. Opt for a rich, high-quality chocolate for the best flavor. Same goes for your pumpkin so be sure to find a quality pumpkin puree. For the best flavor and texture, use unadulterated pumpkin puree. Next you need to spice it right. Don’t skimp on the fall spices, they are after all the soul of the pumpkin layer. Like we mentioned above, make sure to use smooth swirls. This is so important that I feel like I have to mention it twice. Use a skewer, knife tip or the handle end of a spoon for more control when swirling. Lastly before putting in the oven be sure to do pan tapping. Gently tap the pan before baking to remove any air bubbles. Just like with any recipe consistent oven temperature is key. An overlooked element in brownie baking is oven temperature. Make sure your oven is properly calibrated for the perfect bake. A few careful steps can elevate your brownie experience from delightful to unforgettable. Enjoy these moist and flavor-packed Pumpkin Swirl Brownies and remember that each bite is a perfect celebration of the season.

These brownies represent a comforting fusion of worlds where the timeless appeal of a gooey chocolate brownie meets the warm, spiced caress of pumpkin. It's a match made in heaven, and especially one for the Fall months. This treat is perfect for enjoying with a hot drink as the leaves turn golden. The Pumpkin Swirl Brownie is not just a seasonal delicacy, as you'll find that it's so loved that people will crave it year-round. Appreciate the moist, tender crumb of these brownies, as it is a result of the perfect balance between chocolate and pumpkin. With every swirl, just the right hint of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove will hit your taste buds amid the backdrop of the decadent chocolate. Take pleasure in creating and savoring these glorious Pumpkin Swirl Brownies. They are sure to become a treasured part of your fall tradition and will have your entire house filled with the best smells of fall.

Ingredients

Brownie Batter

½ cup dark brown sugar packed

1 cup granulated sugar

3 large eggs

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1/2 cup salted butter

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1/2 tsp baking powder

¼ teaspoon salt

1 cup heavy whipping cream

Pumpkin Batter

1 cup pumpkin puree

1/4 cup granulated sugar

6 oz cream cheese, softened

3/4 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1 large egg

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and oil and line an 9X13 pan with cooking spray and parchment paper (if desired).
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, dark brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add in eggs and vanilla and mix again. Set aside.
In another medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, baking powder and unsweetened cocoa powder. Gradually mix in wet ingredients into dry. Lastly, add in heavy whipping cream.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and begin mixing pumpkin mixture.
In a medium sized bowl mix together cream cheese and sugar until blended. Add in pumpkin, spices and egg.
Once blended add in large spoonsful of pumpkin batter on top of brownie mix. Using a knife swirl batter and pumpkin mixture, be sure to not over blend the two together but make a swirl. Tap on table to remove air bubbles.
Bake for 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Remove from oven and let cool for five minutes. Cut into squares, serve and enjoy!

Other Delicious Pumpkin Recipes You Will Love:

Deliciously Sweet: Mastering the Perfect Pumpkin Molasses Cookie Recipe for the Autumn Season

The Ultimate Thanksgiving Dessert - My Pumpkin Crisp Recipe

Savor the Fall Season with the Perfect Pumpkin Espresso Martini

Yummy Pumpkin Ice Cream Recipe with a Twist: Pumpkin Molasses Cookie Chunks!

Sweet Serenity: Mastering the Art of Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing

Deliciously Sweet: Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Pecan Crumbles

Baked Burrata Pumpkin Ziti with Pork Sausage Recipe

October 02, 2024

Deliciously Good Brown Butter Pumpkin & Chocolate Chip Cookie Skillet

October 02, 2024/ Amanda Warren

If you’re looking for a dessert that not only sings with autumn flavors but also provides a deeply satisfying, warm experience, then look no further than the brown butter pumpkin chocolate chip cookie skillet. This cookie treat combines the unbeatable flavors of nutty brown butter, pumpkin, and sweet chocolate chips. The cookie skillet is a what I'd call a hybrid dessert, as it's a yummy cross between a cookie and a pizza, usually baked in a skillet and topped with ice cream. This treat is an indulgent, gooey delight that makes the perfect dessert anytime of the year. Get ready to fall in love with this fall take on a classic comfort dessert.

The combination of brown butter, pumpkin, and chocolate chips creates an exceptional flavor profile that hits all the right notes. When you brown butter, which is one of my all-time favorite dessert tastes, you’re essentially caramelizing the milk solids, which lends a rich, nutty aroma and depth that for this recipe pairs perfectly with the earthy sweetness of pumpkin. This combination produces a unique taste experience that’s both indulgent and comforting. Brown butter is a game-changer in baking. By cooking the butter until it's golden brown it elevates any dessert to gourmet status. Incorporating brown butter into our pumpkin chocolate chip cookie skillet ensures that every bite is a little bit of heaven.

Pumpkin puree captures the essence of fall with its warm, familiar flavor. The inclusion of pumpkin in these cookies makes them perfect for fall gatherings or warm cozy nights in. The warm spices and ingredients make this cookie skillet the ultimate in cozy comfort food.

The goal in creating these cookies is to achieve a perfect balance of textures. We want crispy edges and a gooey, melty center. The chocolate chips not only add sweetness but also contribute to the ideal gooey texture that makes this dessert so irresistible. Creating the perfect texture starts with the right ingredients and techniques. Using high-quality chocolate chips ensures they melt beautifully, while proper baking techniques help maintain the gooey core.

Endless Possibilities & Baking Tips

Versatility in a dessert means it can adapt to different occasions and preferences, making it a staple in your baking repertoire. These cookies are perfect for enjoying with a cup of coffee, milk, or tea. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a decadent dessert. This treat is great for date night at home, family gatherings, or holiday parties. These cookies will always be a sure-fire, can't miss hit.

Feel free to experiment with different add-ins to create a unique flavor profile that suits your taste and add in substitution or extras for ingredients below. The base, being rich in flavor and texture, can easily accommodate a variety of additional ingredients. Chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds add a delightful crunch. Dried cranberries, raisins, or dried cherries provide a tangy contrast. Enhance the autumnal flavor with extra cinnamon, nutmeg, or even pumpkin pie spice. These customization options allow you to tailor your cookie skillet to your personal taste, ensuring that every bite is just how you like it.

A cookie skillet combines the elements of a traditional cookie with those of a deep-dish pizza, all baked in a skillet for a uniquely gooey and warm dessert experience. Envision perfectly baked cookie dough infused with brown butter, pumpkin, and chocolate chips, baked in a skillet for that slightly crisp yet gooey consistency.

How Do I Store Leftover?

Proper storage is key to maintaining the texture and flavor of your leftover cookie skillt. Whether you want to enjoy it later or share it, knowing how to store it ensures that it stays delicious and fresh. Allow the cookie skillet to cool completely before you store it. This helps maintain its texture and flavor, making sure it stays delicious whether you indulge the next day or a few days later. Seal the pan tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Add to the refrigerator to keep the cookie skillet fresh for up to 3-4 days. To reheat microwave individual servings for 20-30 seconds or reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes. Proper storage ensures that your cookie skillet remains moist and flavorful, and ready whenever you are.

What’s the Best Way to Serve?

Serving your cookie skillet warm amplifies its gooey texture and rich flavors and pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates the perfect dessert experience. To get the most enjoyment out of your cookie skillet, serve it immediately after baking, while it’s still fresh and warm from the oven. This enhances the gooey chocolate and the rich flavors of the browned butter and pumpkin. For extra sweetness you can add caramel or chocolate sauce for added sweetness. Or, for salty sprinkle feel free to add sea salt or chopped nuts for an extra layer of flavor. These serving suggestions ensure that every bite of your cookie skillet is just the way you want it.

This brown butter pumpkin chocolate chip cookie skillet is one of those desserts that virtually everyone will always love. It is rich in flavor, loaded with textures, and offers the ultimate gooeyness, making it perfect for any cozy occasion. Whether you enjoy it on its own, with a dollop of ice cream, or shared among friends, it’s bound to be a crowd-pleaser. So, get baking, and indulge in the flavors of autumn with every warm, decadent bite!

INGREDIENTS

1/2 cup brown butter

1/2 cup sugar

1/4 dark brown sugar

1/2 tsp vanilla

1 large egg

1 1/4 cups flour

2 1/2 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp sea salt

1/4 cup pumpkin puree

1/2 cup chocolate chips or chunks of chocolate

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

2. Brown butter on the stove until a nutty flavor and fragrance begins. Let cool before starting next steps.

3. Add Sugar & Brown Sugar into butter and mix. Scrape sides and mix again immediately after.

4. Mix in Vanilla Extract, Pumpkin and Eggs. Mix again.

5. Gradually add all-purpose Flour, Baking Soda, and salt. Mix well.

6. Now add in chocolate chips or chunks of a milk chocolate bar.

7. Fold cookie dough into a skillet and press in to fill every inch and pack down. Add skillet to preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes or until crispy on the edges and cooked but gooey on the center. Serve with vanilla ice cream on top and enjoy!

Other Cookie Recipes You Will Love:

Birthday Cutout Sugar Cookies

Brown Sugar Toffee Cookies

Brown Butter Caramel Pretzel Cookies

How to Make Delicious Nutter Butter Cookies At Home

The Best Monster Cookie Recipe You'll Ever Try!

Deliciously Sweet: Mastering the Perfect Pumpkin Molasses Cookie Recipe for the Autumn Season

Indulge your Sweet Tooth: The Ultimate Guide to Making Brown Butter Maple Pecan Chocolate Chunk Cookies

Decadent Almond Joy Cookies: A Tribute to the Classic Candy Bar

Indulge Your Sweet Tooth: The Ultimate Guide to Making Gingerbread Whoopie Pies at Home

Decadent Brown Butter Shortbread Cookies with a Chocolate 'Wax' Seal – A Vintage Twist on a Classic Treat!

September 30, 2023

A Divine Caramel Cheesecake with a Graham Cracker Pecan Crust

September 30, 2023/ Amanda Warren

Welcome to our latest dessert delight - Caramel Cheesecake with a Graham Cracker Pecan Crust! If your mouth isn't watering yet, prepare for it to start. This exquisite treat promises a perfect fusion of a luscious, creamy caramel cheesecake layer beautifully married with an incredibly flavorful, buttery graham cracker and pecan crust that adds a beautiful taste of crunchiness and nuttiness. Whether you are a cheesecake aficionado and it is your go-to dessert, or simply someone who appreciates any well-prepared desserts, this recipe offers a glorious culinary adventure you’ll surely enjoy. Buckle up, fellow sweet tooths, we're about to embark on the ultimate cheesecake journey.

How to Store Cheesecake

Proper Care for Your Caramel Cheesecake Masterpiece – Once you have indulged in your homemade Caramel Cheesecake with a Graham Cracker Pecan Crust, remember to store any leftovers appropriately to maintain its freshness and deliciousness. Firstly, let your cheesecake cool entirely at room temperature before thinking about storing it. Then, place it preferably in an airtight container, or a cake box if you must, and store it in the refrigerator. Avoid slicing it into portions until you are ready to serve, to prevent drying and hardening. The best temperature to store your cheesecake is below 40°F, optimum for preserving its texture and taste. With proper care, your succulent caramel cheesecake will last for up to five days in the fridge. If you wish to store it for a longer duration, consider freezing your cheesecake. Wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap, your cheesecake can last up to six months in the freezer without losing its delightful caramel and pecan charm.

INGREDIENTS

Crust:

12 oz graham crackers

1 cup pecans

1 cup melted butter

Filling:

3 - 8 oz cream cheese ( room temperature )

1 stick salted butter

1/2 cup brown sugar or light brown sugar

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/4 teaspoon sea salt

3 eggs

1/2 cup heavy cream

1 tsp vanilla extract

Caramel Topping -

1 cup granulated sugar

6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces

1/2 cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon vanilla

INSTRUCTIONS

Preheat oven to 375. Spray the cheesecake pan with olive oil spray and wrap around the outside with foil.
Make Crust by adding pecans & graham crackers to a blender and processing until fine. Add in melted butter and blend again.
Press the crust mixture into the bottom of the pan until even all the way around. I use a flat-bottom cup or a metal spoon to help.
Bake in the oven for 13-15 minutes. Once done remove and let cool completely on cooling rack before adding filling.
Reduce oven temperature to 325 degrees.
Make filling. Mix softened cream cheese and butter with both sugars and salt until well combined with stand mixer or hand mixer.
Add in eggs. One at a time. Making sure they are fully incorporated each time.
Next add heavy cream, vanilla and lemon zest! Once well-mixed pour into cooled cheesecake pan. Also, add aluminum foil around the edges of the cheesecake pan.
You will then add this onto a tray with a lip. Place on oven rack and add in warm water until halfway full. Push back rack and start timer.
Cook the cheesecake for 1 hour. The center will still be a little jiggly, but the side will be set. After baking for 1 hour you will turn oven off the oven and leave the cheesecake in the oven for an additional hour.
Once baked for an hour and let sit for an hour in the oven, you can remove it from the oven. Wrap the cheesecake and let sit in your refrigerator overnight. Up to 24 hours before serving or adding caramel topping.

Caramel Sauce

Put 1 cup granulated sugar in a saucepan and heat it over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, constantly stirring. The sugar will start melting and form clumps, which will turn into amber/brown liquid.
When the sugar is completely melted, add 6 tbsp cubed butter and stir. At this point, the mixture will start to bubble. Stir for a couple of minutes until the butter is melted. First, it will look like the sugar and butter are separated, there is nothing wrong with that.
Gradually add ½ cup heavy cream and stir. It will bubble again.
Stir for another minute, then remove from the heat and add vanilla. You can also add salt at this time if you wish.
Remove the refrigerated cheesecake from the fridge at this time. Do not take the round edge off of the pan but pour caramel sauce over the top, making sure to smooth quickly because it will hardenly fast. Remove the edge and place the cheesecake on a new plate, cut, serve and enjoy!

For those of us who are looking for inspiration to get creative in the kitchen, this recipe is the perfect choice. You can make this traditional family favorite recipe uniquely your own by adding different flavors and ingredients. Plus, you can even top it off with a customizable glaze. For those wanting a sweeter crust, try adding in honey. Switch out the caramel topping for fresh berries and make a blueberry drizzle that is also amazing on this cheesecake! For those wanting a keto option, change the graham cracker crust to add additional nuts, either more pecans or almonds will do great. No matter what you do to make this your own, this caramel cheesecake with a graham cracker pecan crust is sure to be a hit!