Name: Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Brownie Layer:; 1/2 cup (8 tbsp) unsalted butter, cut into pieces; 2 oz unsweetened chocolate, chopped; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp table salt; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 large egg, room temperature; 3/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips; Pumpkin Cheesecake Layer:; 8 oz full-fat cream cheese, room temperature; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg, room temperature; 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree; 1 tsp vanilla extract

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Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies are the ultimate fall dessert mashup—fudgy, rich brownies meet creamy, spiced pumpkin cheesecake in every bite. With warm cinnamon notes and a luscious texture contrast, this dessert is perfect for holiday tables, cozy gatherings, or when you simply can’t decide between brownies or cheesecake.

Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Two-in-one dessert – fudgy brownies + pumpkin cheesecake
Perfectly layered – rich, dense base with a creamy top
Great make-ahead option – best chilled
A festive twist on classic brownies
Smooth, creamy, and full of fall flavor
Easy to make with pantry staples
Gorgeous presentation with swirled or stacked layers
Ideal for parties, potlucks, and gifting
Keeps well in the fridge
Crowd-pleasing flavors for all ages

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Brownie Layer

1/2 cup unsalted butter (8 tablespoons), cut into chunks
2 ounces unsweetened chocolate, chopped
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon table salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 large egg, room temperature
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Pumpkin Cheesecake Layer

8 ounces full-fat cream cheese, room temperature
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg, room temperature
1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Preheat and Prep
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease with cooking spray.
Make the Brownie Layer
In a medium saucepan, melt butter and chopped unsweetened chocolate together over low heat, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and whisk in the cocoa powder, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. The mixture will appear thick and grainy.

Whisk in the vanilla and egg until well incorporated. Switch to a rubber spatula and fold in the flour and chocolate chips. Spread the brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan.

Make the Pumpkin Cheesecake Layer
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth (1–2 minutes). Scrape down the sides of the bowl, then add the egg, pumpkin puree, and vanilla. Beat until smooth and creamy.
Assemble and Bake
Pour the pumpkin cheesecake mixture over the brownie layer and smooth the top. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheesecake top is firm and just starting to pull away from the pan edges.
Cool and Chill
Let the brownies cool to room temperature in the pan. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is even better) to allow flavors to set and layers to firm up.
Serve
Cut into 16 squares and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

Yield: 16 brownies
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour (plus 4 hours chilling time for best results)

Variations

Add a swirl: Swirl the pumpkin cheesecake layer into the brownie for a marbled effect
Add nuts: Fold chopped pecans or walnuts into the brownie layer
Spice it up: Add nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice to the cheesecake mix
Use chocolate chunks instead of chips for bigger bites of chocolate
Top with whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate ganache
Make it gluten-free with a 1:1 GF flour blend
Add espresso powder to the brownie for a mocha twist
Substitute dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor
Top with crushed gingersnaps for extra texture
Use a 9×9 pan for slightly thinner brownies and faster baking

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator:
Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

Freezer:
Freeze individual squares wrapped in plastic and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

To Serve:
Best served cold or at room temperature. Do not reheat, as it may affect the cheesecake layer texture.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Full-fat cream cheese is strongly recommended for best texture. Low-fat versions may make the cheesecake layer too soft or watery.

Do I need to use unsweetened chocolate?

Yes, unsweetened chocolate balances the sweetness and adds depth to the brownie base. Semi-sweet would make it overly sweet.

Can I skip the cinnamon?

You can omit it, but it enhances the fall flavors. Pumpkin and cinnamon pair beautifully.

Can I use homemade pumpkin puree?

Yes, but make sure it’s thick and well-drained to avoid making the cheesecake layer too runny.

What’s the best way to cut clean brownie squares?

Chill completely, then use a sharp knife cleaned between cuts. You can also dip the knife in warm water for smoother slicing.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can double it and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Adjust baking time to 35–40 minutes and check for doneness.

Do I need to use parchment paper?

It’s helpful for easy removal and cleaner edges, but greasing the pan well also works.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely. These brownies taste even better after chilling overnight, making them perfect for advance prep.

Why is my cheesecake layer cracking?

Overbaking or cooling too quickly can cause cracks. Allow gradual cooling and avoid overmixing the batter to reduce air bubbles.

Can I add more pumpkin?

Adding more pumpkin may affect the texture and firmness. Stick to 1/2 cup unless you’re adapting the recipe with more binding agents.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Cheesecake Brownies are the perfect marriage of two classic desserts with a seasonal twist. Rich, fudgy chocolate meets smooth, spiced pumpkin in a dessert that’s as impressive as it is indulgent. Whether you’re baking for fall festivities, or just because, these layered bars deliver cozy comfort and chocolatey satisfaction in every bite.