Easy 3-Ingredient Pumpkin Oreo Brownies: Your Ultimate Fall Dessert Recipe
Prepare to be amazed by these incredibly simple Pumpkin Brownies with Oreos! This is hands down the easiest and quickest pumpkin brownie recipe you’ll ever find. With just three core ingredients and a mere 30 minutes of your time, you can whip up a batch of moist, fudgy, sweet, and perfectly chocolatey brownies. What’s even better? They’re a “better for you” alternative to traditional brownies, allowing you to indulge with a little less guilt.
These delightful Oreo pumpkin brownies are destined to become a staple among your family’s favorite fall dessert recipes. You can feel wonderful knowing that each bite is packed with the natural goodness of pumpkin, making them a fantastic choice for the season. Don’t miss out on this unique and utterly satisfying fall treat that combines two beloved desserts into one irresistible creation!
👩🏻🍳 Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Easy Pumpkin Brownie Recipe
These pumpkin brownies aren’t just fudgy, moist, sweet, and chocolatey – they come with a delightful bonus: they’re a better-for-you dessert! While we wouldn’t call them a health food, replacing traditional oil and eggs with pumpkin puree significantly impacts the nutritional profile. This clever swap not only reduces the fat content but also introduces beneficial fiber and vitamin C into your brownies. It’s a win-win!
So, you can truly feel a little less guilty about enjoying an extra square (or two!) when no one is watching. Beyond the nutritional perks, the pumpkin adds an incredible depth of moisture and a subtle autumnal flavor that perfectly complements the rich chocolate. The natural sweetness of pumpkin also helps to balance the overall taste, making these brownies incredibly satisfying without being overly sugary.
The best part? This entire recipe requires only three simple ingredients and can be ready in about 30 minutes from start to finish. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights, last-minute potlucks, or when a sudden craving for a warm, comforting fall dessert strikes. It’s a foolproof recipe perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
If you’re a fan of pumpkin-packed desserts, you absolutely must give these Pumpkin Truffles a try. They’re incredibly simple yet bursting with flavor! For another fantastic Oreo-stuffed dessert, consider these fun Funfetti Cupcakes with Oreos. Or, explore this recipe for dark chocolate Oreo cupcakes, offering a rich, fudgy bite with delicious crushed Oreos throughout.
🥘 Simple Ingredients for Irresistible Pumpkin Oreo Brownies
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just three core ingredients, you can create a truly spectacular fall dessert that tastes like it took hours, but only takes minutes. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Brownie Mix (15 oz box): Using a quality box mix is the secret to making this recipe incredibly simple without compromising on that classic, rich brownie flavor. Opt for a fudge brownie mix for an even more decadent result. This convenience saves you time and effort in measuring dry ingredients.
- Pumpkin Puree (15 oz can): This is the star ingredient that replaces the oil and eggs found in most brownie recipes. Make sure you use 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin puree adds natural sweetness, moisture, and a distinct fall flavor, along with a boost of vitamins and fiber.
- Oreos (16 cookies): This is where you can get creative! While classic Oreos work wonderfully, seasonal flavors like Pumpkin Spice Oreos, Golden Oreos, or even Halloween-themed Oreos with orange creme filling can elevate this recipe and make it truly festive. The cookies add a delightful crunch and extra layer of sweetness and flavor to the fudgy brownies.
That’s it! Just these three items are all you need to create a batch of incredibly satisfying pumpkin Oreo brownies.
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions for Your Perfect Pumpkin Oreo Brownies
Even with just three ingredients, getting these brownies right is a breeze. Follow these simple steps for perfectly moist, fudgy, and delicious pumpkin Oreo brownies every time:
- **Prepare Your Pan and Oven:** Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease the bottom and sides of an 8×8 inch baking pan. This ensures your brownies won’t stick and will come out cleanly.
- **Combine the Main Ingredients:** In a large mixing bowl, add the entire box of brownie mix and the can of pumpkin puree. Stir them together until just combined. Don’t worry if the batter seems unusually thick – this is completely normal and contributes to the fudgy texture of the finished brownies. Overmixing can lead to tougher brownies, so stop as soon as there are no dry streaks of mix left.
- **First Layer of Batter:** Spread approximately half of the thick brownie-pumpkin batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. You might find it easier to dollop small spoonfuls of batter and then gently spread them with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
- **Add the Oreo Layer:** Carefully arrange your Oreos on top of the first layer of batter. Make sure the cookies are touching each other to create a complete layer, but avoid overlapping them. Gently press each Oreo down slightly into the batter. This helps them adhere and ensures they are fully encased in the brownie goodness.
- **Second Layer of Batter:** Spread the remaining brownie batter over the layer of Oreos. Again, take your time to cover all the cookies, spreading the thick batter as evenly as possible from edge to edge.
- **Bake to Perfection:** Place the baking pan in your preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes. The exact baking time can vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them. The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center (avoiding an Oreo) comes out with moist crumbs, but not wet batter.
- **Cool Before Slicing:** Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This is crucial for achieving that perfect fudgy texture and clean slices. Warm brownies tend to be crumbly and difficult to cut neatly.
And there you have it – incredibly easy, delicious, and perfectly festive pumpkin Oreo brownies!
👪 Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Brownies
Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some common inquiries about making these delightful pumpkin brownies:
Absolutely, and it’s one of the best kitchen hacks for baking! Pumpkin puree is an excellent substitute for both oil and eggs in many brownie recipes. It adds natural moisture, acts as a binder, and gives the brownies a delightful fudgy texture. Plus, it significantly reduces the fat content while boosting the fiber and vitamin C. It’s a fantastic way to make your brownies a little lighter without sacrificing flavor or texture. In this specific recipe, the combination of pumpkin puree with a brownie mix works like a charm!
For these particular pumpkin brownies, the key to their incredible fudginess is the pumpkin puree itself. Pumpkin adds a dense, moist quality that results in a wonderfully rich and chewy texture, reminiscent of the best homemade fudge. For traditional brownies, fudginess often comes down to the fat-to-flour ratio. A higher fat content (from butter, oil, or chocolate) and less leavening agent typically lead to a denser, fudgier brownie. That’s why adding more chocolate or using a recipe with a higher fat ratio usually results in a fudgier outcome compared to cakey brownies.
No, these are two distinct products and it’s very important not to confuse them for this recipe! Pumpkin puree is 100% pure, cooked, and mashed pumpkin with absolutely nothing else added. It’s unseasoned and unsweetened. Pumpkin pie filling, on the other hand, is a pre-mixed product that already contains a blend of pumpkin pie spices (such as cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves), sugar, and often other ingredients. Using pumpkin pie filling in this recipe could drastically alter the flavor profile and sweetness, potentially leading to an overly spiced or too sweet brownie. Always double-check the label to ensure you’re using pure pumpkin puree.
Any standard 15-ounce box of fudge brownie mix will work perfectly. Look for brands you usually enjoy. A fudge brownie mix will naturally enhance the fudgy texture these pumpkin brownies are known for. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate brownie mixes (e.g., milk chocolate, dark chocolate) to suit your preference, but ensure it’s a “fudge” style for the best results.
Once completely cooled, store your pumpkin Oreo brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen! Wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature or gently warm in the microwave.
💭 Expert Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Oreo Brownies
Even though this recipe is incredibly simple, a few extra tips can ensure your pumpkin Oreo brownies turn out perfect every single time:
- **Don’t Overmix:** When combining the brownie mix and pumpkin puree, mix until just combined. The batter will be very thick, and that’s perfectly fine. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, leading to tougher brownies.
- **Even Spreading:** The batter is thick, so spreading it can be a bit challenging. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to gently spread the first half of the batter and then the second half over the Oreos. Take your time to get an even layer for consistent baking.
- **Oreo Placement:** When placing the Oreos, ensure they form a single layer, touching but not overlapping. Too many cookies in one spot can create dry pockets or affect the brownie’s overall structure and baking.
- **Check for Doneness:** Brownies are notoriously easy to overbake. Start checking at 20-22 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the brownie (avoiding an Oreo) should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter. If it comes out completely clean, they might be slightly overbaked, though still delicious.
- **Cool Completely:** Patience is key! Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before attempting to slice them. This allows them to set properly, resulting in cleaner cuts and a truly fudgy texture.
- **No Oreos? No Problem!** These pumpkin brownies are still incredibly moist and delicious even without the Oreo layer. Just omit the cookies and follow the rest of the instructions for a fantastic 2-ingredient pumpkin brownie!
Pumpkin brownies make the perfect fall dessert, and the option to switch up what kind of cookies go inside makes them incredibly versatile and customizable! Serve these Oreo cookies brownies for a crowd-pleasing dessert that delights everyone, every time!
📖 Delicious Variations & Topping Ideas
While these pumpkin Oreo brownies are fantastic as is, there are many ways to customize them and take them to the next level. Get creative with these variations:
- **Add Extra Chips:** Stir in a handful of chocolate chips (milk, semi-sweet, dark, or even white chocolate chips) or butterscotch chips into the brownie batter before spreading. They add extra pockets of melted sweetness.
- **Nutty Crunch:** For added texture and flavor, mix in chopped nuts like walnuts, pecans, or even roasted almonds. They pair wonderfully with chocolate and pumpkin.
- **Spice It Up:** While pumpkin puree is unseasoned, you can add a pinch of pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, or a tiny dash of nutmeg to the brownie batter for an even more pronounced fall flavor. Start with ¼ to ½ teaspoon.
- **Experiment with Oreo Flavors:** Beyond Pumpkin Spice and Golden Oreos, consider other limited-edition fall flavors if you can find them, like Maple Creme or Apple Cider Oreos. Classic Double Stuf Oreos are always a hit too! For a fun twist, try crushing some Oreos and sprinkling them on top of the batter before baking.
- **Cream Cheese Swirl:** For an extra indulgent treat, prepare a small batch of cream cheese frosting (or use store-bought) and dollop it over the top layer of brownie batter. Swirl it gently with a knife for a beautiful marbled effect.
- **Delicious Toppings:** Once cooled, these brownies can be topped with a simple dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of caramel sauce, a dollop of whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt can also beautifully enhance the chocolate flavor.
🎃 More Delightful Pumpkin Recipes
Pumpkin isn’t just perfect for dessert; it’s an incredibly versatile ingredient that shines in many dishes. The fall season is the ideal time to explore all the wonderful pumpkin recipes out there. Why not start your day with these wholesome Pumpkin Overnight Oats, or enjoy a cozy breakfast with these fluffy Pumpkin Chocolate Swirl Pancakes?
If you’re searching for something more substantial for a hearty lunch or dinner, this comforting Bacon and Pumpkin Pasta is a must-try. Its rich and creamy sauce infused with pumpkin is sure to become a family favorite.
🥧 More Irresistible Dessert Ideas
Looking for more sweet treats to satisfy your cravings? Here are some other fantastic dessert recipes to try, perfect for any occasion:
- Easy Peanut Butter Mummy Cookies – An adorable and festive dessert, perfect for Halloween parties or a fun baking activity with kids.
- Brownie Cakesicles – A unique and playful twist on brownies, shaped like popsicles and so much fun to make and decorate!
- Cookies and Cream No Churn Ice Cream – No ice cream maker needed for this creamy, dreamy treat. It’s always a good time for ice cream, no matter the season!
- Baked Chocolate Donuts with Glaze – Super easy to whip up and a much healthier alternative to their fried counterparts, these are perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack.
- Funfetti Cupcakes – These vibrant and delicious cupcakes add a celebratory touch to any event, making even ordinary days feel extra special. With layers of deliciousness, you don’t have to choose between cookies or cupcakes!
Pumpkin Brownies with Oreos – Recipe Card
We hope you love this simple yet spectacular recipe! If you do, please consider giving it a 5-star ⭐ rating below to help other home bakers find and enjoy it. And if you make these delightful brownies, we’d love to see your creations! Snap a photo and tag me on Instagram. You can find me at @DizzyBusyandHungry or use the hashtag #dizzybusyandhungry!
📋 Recipe Card
Oreo Pumpkin Brownies
Kristin
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5 minutes
25 minutes
12
Ingredients
-
15
ounces
brownie mix
(1 box) -
15
ounces
100% pure pumpkin
(1 can) -
16
Pumpkin Spice Oreos
(you can substitute Golden Oreos if Pumpkin Spice Oreos are not available)
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Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease the bottom of a 8×8 baking pan.
-
In a large bowl, combine the brownie mix and pumpkin. The batter will be very thick.15 ounces brownie mix,
15 ounces 100% pure pumpkin -
Spread about half of the batter in the baking pan.
-
Place the Oreos on top of the batter, touching but not overlapping. Press them down gently into the batter a little bit.16 Pumpkin Spice Oreos
-
Spread the rest of the batter over the Oreos. Bake about 25 minutes.
Notes
- No Oreos on hand? These are delicious even without them. Just omit the Oreos and follow the rest of the instructions.
- Be sure not to stuff too many cookies into the batter, as this could affect the brownie’s baking.
Video
Nutrition
Calories:
301
kcal
|
Carbohydrates:
50
g
|
Protein:
3
g
|
Fat:
9
g
|
Saturated Fat:
2
g
|
Sodium:
235
mg
|
Potassium:
133
mg
|
Fiber:
1
g
|
Sugar:
30
g
|
Vitamin A:
5515
IU
|
Vitamin C:
1.5
mg
|
Calcium:
15
mg
|
Iron:
3.9
mg
Nutritional information is an estimate. The nutritional values for your final dish may vary based on measuring differences and products used.
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Update Notes: This post was originally published in October 2015, but was lovingly updated with fresh tips, detailed step-by-step photos, and minor recipe enhancements in October 2021 to bring you the best possible experience.
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