These Healthy Pumpkin Brownies are a tasty treat that combines pumpkin with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. They’re easier to make than you think and super delicious!
If you love a fudgy brownie that’s also good for you, these are perfect! I enjoy them fresh out of the oven, still warm. Trust me, you won’t want to stop at just one! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pumpkin Puree: This is the star of the brownies! Canned pumpkin is super convenient, but fresh pumpkin is great if you’re up for it. Just roast and puree your pumpkin. If you’re looking for a different flavor, mashed bananas or applesauce can work too!
Sweetener: Maple syrup adds a nice flavor, but honey is a good alternative if you prefer that. You could also use agave nectar or even a sugar substitute like stevia, adjusting the quantity as needed.
Coconut Oil: I love using melted coconut oil for its natural sweetness and flavor. If you don’t have it, any neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil will do just fine! For a dairy-free alternative, melted dairy-free butter works too.
Flour: Whole wheat flour gives a nutty flavor but you can swap it with oat flour for a gluten-free option. Almond flour or even all-purpose flour can also be used if you have them on hand.
Cocoa Powder: Use unsweetened cocoa powder for the best taste. If you’re out, carob powder could be a fun alternative, though it has a slightly different flavor.
What’s the Trick to Mixing the Batter Just Right?
Mixing is a key step! You want to combine your wet and dry ingredients without overmixing. Overmixing can lead to tough brownies instead of soft and fudgy ones. Take these steps:
- Start by mixing your pumpkin mix until smooth.
- Add your dry mix gradually. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently fold them together.
- Stop mixing as soon as no dry flour is visible. It’s okay if there are a few lumps!
By being gentle, you help keep the brownies nice and tender.
How Do I Know When the Brownies Are Done?
Brownies can be tricky! You want them baked through but still moist. Here’s how to check:
- Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies; it should come out with a few moist crumbs.
- If it comes out clean, they might be overbaked.
- If it’s very wet, give them a few more minutes, but check regularly.
Letting them cool in the pan also helps them firm up, making slicing easier!
Healthy Pumpkin Brownies with Warm Spices
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Brownie Batter:
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup or honey
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted (or any vegetable oil)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup whole wheat flour or oat flour
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional Mix-Ins:
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips or chunks
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious dessert takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25-30 minutes to bake. After that, allow another 20-30 minutes for cooling before cutting. Altogether, you’re looking at roughly 1 hour from start to finish, but the results are worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking pan with cooking oil or line it with parchment paper. This makes it easier to remove the brownies later!
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, eggs, maple syrup (or honey), melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk to stir everything together until it’s smooth and well combined.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, sift together the whole wheat flour (or oat flour), cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger (if using), and salt. This helps to break up any clumps and ensure even distribution of the ingredients.
4. Mix It All Together:
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could make the brownies tough!
5. Add Nuts and Chocolate (Optional):
If you like, fold in the chopped nuts and dark chocolate chips. This adds extra texture and flavor to your brownies!
6. Pour and Smooth:
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, making sure the surface is as smooth as possible.
7. Bake:
Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter.
8. Cool Down:
Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan on a wire rack. Be patient— cooling is essential, as it allows the brownies to set properly!
9. Slice and Serve:
After they’ve cooled completely, slice the brownies into squares. You can enjoy them warm or at room temperature. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days at room temperature or a week in the fridge.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy pumpkin brownies, packed with warm spices!
FAQ About Healthy Pumpkin Brownies
Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If you have fresh pumpkin, just roast it, scoop out the flesh, and blend until smooth to make your puree. It will add a lovely flavor to your brownies!
How Do I Store Leftover Brownies?
Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just let them come to room temperature before serving, or warm them slightly in the microwave!
Can I Substitute the Sweetener?
Yes! You can replace maple syrup with honey, agave nectar, or even a sugar substitute like stevia. Just adjust the quantity as needed, especially with sugar substitutes, to achieve your desired sweetness.
What Can I Use Instead of Coconut Oil?
If you don’t have coconut oil, any neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil will work. You can also use melted butter or a dairy-free butter alternative if you prefer!
