30 Minute Pumpkin Brownies Vegan
These pumpkin brownies vegan are the ultimate fall dessert that combines rich, fudgy chocolate with warm pumpkin spice flavors. Here’s a fun fact: pumpkin puree actually makes brownies incredibly moist while reducing the need for excessive oils!
What makes these brownies special is their perfect balance of decadent chocolate and cozy autumn spices, creating a treat that’s both indulgent and surprisingly wholesome. They’re incredibly simple to make, requiring just one bowl and 30 minutes from start to finish, making them perfect for busy families wanting a homemade dessert.
Similar to our popular vegan chocolate chip cookies, these brownies prove that plant-based baking can be just as satisfying as traditional recipes. Get ready to fall in love with the most delicious way to use up that pumpkin puree!
What are Pumpkin Brownies vegan?
Ever wondered why we call them “brownies” when they’re not always brown? Well, pumpkin brownies vegan are the autumn cousin of classic chocolate brownies, marrying rich cocoa with creamy pumpkin puree for the ultimate fall treat.
These beauties get their name from their gorgeous amber-brown color that comes from both chocolate and pumpkin working together in perfect harmony.
As they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and these brownies will definitely capture hearts with their fudgy texture and warm spice blend. Ready to create some autumn magic in your kitchen?
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Brownies Vegan Recipe
Rich, Fudgy Texture with Perfect Autumn Flavors
These pumpkin brownies Vegan deliver the ultimate indulgent experience with their incredibly fudgy center and slightly chewy edges. The pumpkin puree creates an amazingly moist texture while adding subtle earthy sweetness that perfectly complements the rich chocolate base. Each bite melts in your mouth with warm notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla.
Budget-Friendly Homemade Treat
Making these brownies at home costs a fraction of store-bought alternatives while using simple pantry staples. You’ll save money by using affordable ingredients like pumpkin puree, cocoa powder, and basic baking essentials. Plus, one batch makes 16 generous squares, perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping desserts for the week.
Wholesome Ingredients You Can Feel Good About
Unlike traditional brownies loaded with butter and eggs, these plant-based beauties use wholesome ingredients like pumpkin puree for natural moisture and sweetness. The recipe includes fiber-rich pumpkin, antioxidant-packed cocoa, and can easily accommodate gluten-free flour substitutions. Similar to our beloved vegan banana bread, these brownies prove that healthier desserts can be incredibly delicious.
Ready to whip up a batch of these irresistible autumn treats that everyone will be asking for the recipe?
How to Make Vegan Pumpkin Brownies
Quick Overview
These pumpkin brownies Vegan are surprisingly simple to make, requiring just one bowl and basic mixing techniques. The secret lies in the perfect balance of wet and dry ingredients that creates an incredibly fudgy, moist texture with rich chocolate flavor enhanced by warm autumn spices.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 16 brownies
Key Ingredients for Pumpkin Brownies Vegan
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ginger
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup melted coconut oil
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup non-dairy milk
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/2 cup vegan chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease the parchment with coconut oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, both sugars, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until well combined. Make sure there are no lumps in the cocoa powder by sifting if necessary.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients In a separate bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, melted coconut oil, applesauce, vanilla extract, and non-dairy milk until smooth and well combined. The mixture should be creamy with no visible lumps.
Step 4: Create the Batter Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Using a wooden spoon or rubber spatula, gently fold the mixture together until just combined. Don’t overmix – stop as soon as you no longer see dry flour. If using chocolate chips or nuts, fold them in now.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached (not completely clean).
Step 6: Cool and Serve Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan for at least 2 hours before cutting. This cooling time is crucial for achieving the perfect fudgy texture. Use the parchment overhang to lift the brownies out and cut into 16 squares.
What to Serve Pumpkin Brownies Vegan With
These rich, spiced brownies pair beautifully with various accompaniments that enhance their autumn flavors. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla coconut ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce for the ultimate dessert experience. They’re also delicious alongside a cup of spiced chai tea, pumpkin spice latte, or rich hot chocolate.
For a more elegant presentation, dust them with powdered sugar and serve with fresh berries or a dollop of coconut whipped cream. They make an excellent addition to fall dessert platters alongside apple crisp, pear tart, or cinnamon cookies.
Top Tips for Perfecting Pumpkin Brownies Vegan
Don’t Overmix the Batter
The key to fudgy brownies is gentle mixing. Once you add the wet ingredients to the dry, fold just until combined. Overmixing develops the gluten in flour, resulting in tough, cake-like brownies instead of the desired fudgy texture.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients
Ensure your pumpkin puree and non-dairy milk are at room temperature for the smoothest batter. Cold ingredients can cause the melted coconut oil to solidify and create lumps in your batter.
Check for Doneness Carefully
The toothpick test for brownies is different from cakes. You want a few moist crumbs clinging to the toothpick, not a completely clean insertion. This ensures your brownies stay fudgy rather than dry.
Cool Completely Before Cutting
This is crucial! Cutting brownies while warm will result in a messy, crumbly disaster. The cooling process allows the structure to set properly, giving you clean, beautiful squares.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Flour: Use 1:1 gluten-free baking flour for gluten-free brownies
- Coconut Oil: Substitute with melted vegan butter or vegetable oil
- Pumpkin Puree: Sweet potato puree works as a substitute
- Brown Sugar: Coconut sugar can replace brown sugar at a 1:1 ratio
Storing and Reheating Tips
Storage Methods
Store your pumpkin brownies Vegan in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. They’ll maintain their fudgy texture beautifully when properly stored.
Refrigeration Guidelines
While not necessary, you can refrigerate these brownies for up to one week. Store them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Bring them to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Reheating Instructions
To enjoy warm brownies, microwave individual squares for 10-15 seconds. For multiple brownies, wrap them in foil and warm in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes. Avoid overheating as this can dry them out.
Freezing Tips
Cut brownies into individual portions before freezing for easy serving. Wrap each square in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 165 |
| Total Fat | 7g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 20g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Sodium | 95mg |
| Vitamin A | 35% DV |
Nutritional values are approximate and based on 16 servings
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. The texture will remain perfectly fudgy and delicious.
What can I use instead of pumpkin puree?
Sweet potato puree, butternut squash puree, or even mashed banana can work as substitutes, though they’ll slightly alter the flavor profile.
How do I know when the brownies are done?
Insert a toothpick in the center – it should come out with a few moist crumbs attached, not completely clean. This ensures they stay fudgy.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Double all ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan. Increase baking time to 35-40 minutes, checking for doneness with the toothpick test.
Why are my brownies too cakey?
This usually happens from overmixing the batter or overbaking. Mix just until ingredients are combined and check for doneness early.
Can I add other mix-ins?
Yes! Try vegan chocolate chips, chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or even a swirl of peanut butter for variety.
Final Thoughts
These pumpkin brownies Vegan represent the perfect marriage of indulgent dessert and wholesome ingredients. They’re proof that plant-based baking can be every bit as satisfying as traditional methods, delivering rich chocolate flavor enhanced by warm autumn spices.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. Whether you’re serving them at a fall gathering, packing them in lunch boxes, or enjoying them as an after-dinner treat, these brownies never fail to impress. The combination of pumpkin puree and cocoa creates an incredibly moist, fudgy texture that rivals any traditional brownie recipe.
Don’t forget to experiment with the add-ins and variations to make this recipe your own. From chocolate chips to nuts to creative frosting options, there are endless ways to customize these brownies for any occasion.
Ready to fall in love with your new favorite autumn dessert? Grab that can of pumpkin puree and let’s get baking!
