Fall is here, and it’s time to indulge in the cozy flavors of the season! If you love pumpkin spice and s’mores, you’re in for a treat with my Pumpkin Spice S’mores Brownies. These gooey, chocolatey delights blend warm pumpkin spice with sweet mini marshmallows and graham cracker crumbs for a rich dessert perfect for any gathering. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and bring autumn to your kitchen!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Pumpkin Spice S’mores Brownies
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
These main ingredients create the base for your brownies. Pumpkin puree gives a lovely flavor and moisture. The butter adds richness, while the sugars provide sweetness. Eggs bind everything together, and flour gives the brownies their structure.
Flavor Enhancers
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
These flavor enhancers are key to making the brownies taste amazing. Cocoa powder adds a deep chocolate flavor. Pumpkin pie spice brings warmth and cozy notes. Baking powder helps the brownies rise, while salt balances the sweetness.
Mix-Ins
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
Mix-ins make these brownies a true treat. Mini marshmallows give that classic s’mores texture. Graham cracker crumbs add crunch and flavor. Chocolate chips melt into pockets of goodness. Together, they create a delightful experience in every bite!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Baking Pan
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This warms the oven for even baking.
2. Grease a 9×9 inch baking pan with butter. You can also use parchment paper for easy removal.
Mixing the Wet Ingredients
1. In a large bowl, combine 1/2 cup melted butter, 1 cup pumpkin puree, 1 cup brown sugar, and 1/2 cup granulated sugar. Whisk until smooth.
2. Add 2 large eggs, one at a time. Mix well after each egg. Then, stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
Combining the Dry Ingredients
1. In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
2. Gradually add the dry mix to the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
Adding the Mix-Ins
1. Gently fold in 1 cup mini marshmallows, 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs, and 1/2 cup chocolate chips. Make sure they are evenly distributed.
Baking the Brownies
1. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Spread it evenly.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. Use a toothpick to check. It should come out with a few moist crumbs.
Cooling and Serving
1. Once baked, let the brownies cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes.
2. Carefully lift them out and cut into squares. Serve warm for the best taste.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Texture
To get fudgy brownies, focus on mixing. Mix just enough to blend the dry and wet ingredients. If you overmix, your brownies will become tough. You want a smooth batter with some lumps of chocolate chips and marshmallows. This will keep them soft and gooey.
Enhancing Flavor Profiles
Toppings can elevate your brownies. I suggest adding graham cracker crumbs on top. This gives a nice crunch and classic s’mores vibe. A dollop of whipped cream makes each bite feel special. Using quality chocolate chips is key too. Semi-sweet or dark chips add rich flavor. They melt beautifully, enhancing the overall treat.
Baking Time Adjustments
If you live in a high-altitude area, you may need to adjust your baking time. At higher altitudes, baked goods can rise too fast and fall. You might need to bake them a bit longer. Always check your brownies by inserting a toothpick. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. Also, ensure your oven is calibrated. An oven that runs hot or cold can change baking times. A reliable oven thermometer can help you bake perfectly every time.
Variations
Alternative Ingredients
You can make these brownies gluten-free. Use gluten-free flour in place of all-purpose flour. This swap keeps the texture and taste great. For a vegan version, replace eggs and butter. Use flax eggs and coconut oil instead. These changes still give rich, delicious brownies.
Flavor Variations
You can boost flavors by adding spices. Try cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth. You can also switch the chocolate for white chocolate or caramel chips. These swaps create a fun twist on the classic taste. Each variation adds a unique touch to your brownies.
Presentation Variations
For special occasions, add a festive touch. Serve your brownies warm with extra graham cracker crumbs on top. A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce makes them look fancy. Use colorful plates or garnish with fresh herbs for a fun look. Creative plating ideas make your brownies stand out at any gathering.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Brownies
You can store your brownies in two ways: at room temperature or in the fridge. If you plan to eat them soon, keep them at room temperature. Place them in an airtight container. This keeps them soft for about three days. If you want them to last longer, put them in the fridge. They can stay fresh for up to a week this way. Just remember to let them warm up a bit before eating.
Reheating Tips
To reheat brownies, you have a few good options. The microwave is the quickest. Heat them in 10-second bursts until warm. This keeps them soft, but don’t overdo it. You can also use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F, wrap your brownies in foil, and heat for about 5-10 minutes. This method helps keep the texture great.
Freezing Instructions
Freezing brownies is a smart way to save some for later. First, let them cool completely. Then, cut them into squares. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can stay frozen for up to three months. When you want to eat one, take it out and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. For a quick thaw, you can microwave it in 10-second bursts. This helps keep the taste and texture just right.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin! Just cook and mash it first. This gives a bright flavor. Use the same amount as canned pumpkin. Fresh pumpkin may add a bit more moisture.
How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
Check the brownies at 30 minutes. Insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are done. If it has wet batter, bake for a few more minutes.
What can I substitute for mini marshmallows?
You can use large marshmallows, cut them into smaller pieces. Another option is using marshmallow fluff. Both will give that sweet, gooey texture.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Make the brownies a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This allows the flavors to blend nicely.
How can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
To lower sugar, cut the brown and granulated sugar by 25%. You can also use alternatives like coconut sugar or stevia. Just make sure to adjust for taste.
These Pumpkin Spice S’mores Brownies blend rich flavors with warm spices. You start by mixing pumpkin puree, sugars, and eggs. Then, add cocoa powder, pumpkin pie spice, and fun mix-ins like marshmallows and chocolate chips. Use my tips for perfect texture and explore fun variations. Store leftovers properly, and enjoy warm or cooled. Baking these brownies is simple and rewarding, bringing joy to any gathering. Try them, and savor each delicious bite!
