Healthy Vegan Pumpkin Brownies

Last updated on August 6, 2025

Imagine the crispness in the air as fall rolls in, and you find yourself craving that perfect blend of warmth and sweetness. That’s exactly what these Vegan Pumpkin Brownies provide. They are a delightful crossover between a fudgy brownie and a creamy pumpkin cheesecake that evokes all the nostalgia of autumn while keeping your cooking stress-free. Even if you’ve never baked a brownie in your life, I promise you that this recipe is as simple as it gets. Let’s jump into making something truly special.

Why I Love This Recipe of Vegan Pumpkin Brownies

There’s something magical about having a treat that is rich, chocolaty, and pumpkin-spiced all at once. I love these vegan pumpkin brownies not only for their decadent flavor but also for their versatility. They serve as an indulgent dessert for cozy nights or as a festive offering for family gatherings during the fall.

As a home cook, I understand that the kitchen can sometimes feel intimidating, especially when you’re trying out vegan or more complicated recipes. But what makes this dish truly special is its simplicity. You’ll get the satisfaction of serving an impressive dessert with minimal fuss. Best of all, it captures the essence of seasonal cooking, making it a go-to recipe that you can feel excited to whip up time and time again.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Vegan Pumpkin Brownies

Essentials

Pumpkin Puree (1 ½ cups total): You will need 3/4 cup of pumpkin puree, which creates a luscious texture in the brownies, while an additional 3/4 cup mixed into the cream cheese filling adds a layer of pumpkin flavor.
Vegan Cream Cheese (1/2 cup): This ingredient gives the cheesecake layer its rich creaminess without dairy, making it suitable for a vegan diet.
Brown Sugar (1/2 cup): The brown sugar adds a rich depth of flavor and moisture to the brownies.
Cornstarch (2 ½ tablespoons): Cornstarch is the secret ingredient that helps bind the cheesecake filling and creates a smooth consistency.
Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons): Flavor booster! This adds warmth and complexity to your brownies.
Lemon Juice (1 teaspoon): It balances the sweetness with a touch of acidity, enhancing the flavors of the cream cheese.
Pumpkin Pie Spice (1/2 teaspoon): This warm spice blend encapsulates the flavors of fall with its cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger notes.
Oil (1/3 cup): Choose a neutral-flavored oil or, for a healthy twist, you can swap it for applesauce.
All-Purpose Flour (1 cup): This component forms the structure of the brownies. You can use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
Cocoa Powder (1/3 cup): It gives these brownies their chocolatey goodness.
Baking Soda (1/2 teaspoon): Helps with leavening the brownie layer for that perfect rise.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): A pinch of salt enhances the sweet flavors and balances the overall taste.

Optional Add-Ons

Consider adding some chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. Dark vegan chocolate chips could also be a fantastic addition for even more chocolatey goodness.

Substitutions and Shortcuts

Vegan Cream Cheese: No vegan cream cheese? Use coconut cream or silken tofu blended with a bit of sweetener instead.
Brown Sugar: Feel free to substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier option.
Flour: Almond flour or oat flour can work well, especially if you need a gluten-free dessert.

How to Make Vegan Pumpkin Brownies Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, line an 8 x 8-inch baking dish with parchment paper to make removing the brownies easier once they’re baked.

Step 2: Whip Up the Pumpkin Cheesecake Layer

In a bowl, combine 3/4 cup of pumpkin puree, 1/2 cup of vegan cream cheese, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 2 ½ tablespoons of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of lemon juice, and 1/2 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice (or cinnamon). Using an immersion blender or a traditional blender, mix until you achieve a smooth, creamy filling. Set this aside while you prepare the brownie batter.

Step 3: Make the Brownie Batter

In a separate mixing bowl, mix the remaining 3/4 cup pumpkin puree with 3/4 cup of vegan sugar, 1/3 cup of oil, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir well to combine.

Next, incorporate 1 cup of flour, 1/3 cup of cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt into the wet ingredients. Mix until everything is well incorporated and you have a thick and fudgy brownie batter.

Step 4: Assemble the Brownies

Pour half of the chocolate brownie batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Next, pour in the pumpkin cheesecake batter, smoothing it out with a spatula. Finally, drop spoonfuls of the remaining brownie batter over the pumpkin layer. Use a knife to gently swirl the two batters together, creating beautiful marble patterns on top.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the top looks dry and shiny. Resist the temptation to open the oven door before the time is up, as this can affect the baking process.

Step 6: Cool and Cut

Once baked, allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. When they have cooled, carefully lift them out using the parchment paper and place them on a flat surface. Use a sharp knife to cut them into squares or rectangles, and enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid Vegan Pumpkin Brownies

Mistake 1: Overmixing the Batter

When combining your wet and dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix. This can lead to dense brownies instead of the light, fudgy texture we are aiming for. Simply stir until just combined.

Mistake 2: Not Allowing to Cool

Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting them. While it’s tempting to dive in straight from the oven, cutting too soon can lead to crumbly brownies instead of nice, clean edges.

Mistake 3: Skipping the Parchment Paper

Using parchment paper is crucial for easy lifting and cutting. If you skip this step, you might end up with a brownie mess in the baking dish.

Mistake 4: Incorrect Oven Temperature

Every oven can be a little different, so double-check that your oven is properly calibrated. If the brownies aren’t cooking evenly, rotate them halfway through baking.

Serving Suggestions for Vegan Pumpkin Brownies

Option 1: Warm with Vegan Whipped Cream

For a truly indulgent treat, serve these brownies warm with a generous dollop of vegan whipped cream on top. The creaminess pairs beautifully with the rich brownie and pumpkin layers.

Option 2: Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

A drizzle of melted dairy-free chocolate sauce can elevate these brownies even further. It adds an additional chocolate kick that chocolate lovers will adore.

Option 3: Topped with Crushed Nuts

Sprinkle some crushed walnuts or pecans on top for added texture and nuttiness. It also makes for an aesthetically pleasing presentation.

Option 4: Pair with Fresh Coffee

For a cozy afternoon treat, serve the brownies alongside a cup of fresh-brewed coffee or tea. The flavors complement each other perfectly and enhance the cozy experience.

Pro-Level Tips for When You’re Ready

Tip 1: Experiment with Spices

Feel free to play around with the spices in this recipe. Adding a touch of nutmeg or ginger can bring a unique twist that makes these brownies your signature creation.

Tip 2: Make Them Ahead of Time

These brownies taste great a day or two after you bake them, making them perfect for preparing in advance for gatherings. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh.

Tip 3: Create a Swirl Design

Get creative with your swirls! Using a toothpick or skewer, you can create beautiful patterns with the brownie and pumpkin batter before baking.

Tip 4: Use a Toothpick Test

To check if the brownies are done, insert a toothpick into the center of the dish. It should come out with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter. This test will ensure that your brownies are perfectly baked.

Conclusion & Next Steps

As you can see, making Vegan Pumpkin Brownies is easier than it looks! With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a cozy, delicious dessert that friends and family will rave about. Don’t be afraid to customize or experiment with different flavors and toppings—this recipe is completely adaptable and beginner-approved.

If you loved this recipe, drop by again for more cozy treats and hearty meals. Your kitchen adventure awaits—so why not start today?

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FAQs About Vegan Pumpkin Brownies

Can I substitute regular cream cheese for vegan cream cheese in Vegan Pumpkin Brownies?

While it may alter the vegan nature of the recipe, you can use regular cream cheese. Just remember that it wouldn’t be suitable for those following a vegan diet.

What if I can’t find pumpkin pie spice?

If you can’t find pumpkin pie spice, you can substitute it with an equal mixture of cinnamon and nutmeg, or just use plain cinnamon if you’re looking for a simpler option.

How do I store leftover Vegan Pumpkin Brownies?

You can store these brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator or freeze them. Just make sure they’re well-wrapped.

Can I use less sugar in this recipe?

Yes, you can reduce the sugar to your taste; however, this may affect the moisture levels and overall texture of the brownies.

Can these brownies be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version of these delicious Vegan Pumpkin Brownies.

I can’t wait to see how you put your spin on this tasty treat! Happy baking!

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