Homemade Brown Butter Pumpkin Blondies with Cream Frosting for Cozy Nights

Maya Oli
Created

As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, it’s impossible not to crave the warm, comforting scent of fall baking. These Brown Butter Pumpkin Blondies capture that cozy essence in every bite, blending the nutty aroma of browned butter with the gentle sweetness of Pumpkin Butter and a hint of Pumpkin Seasoning. Topped with a luscious layer of Cream Frosting, they’re the perfect dessert for curling up with a blanket or sharing with friends during a weekend get-together. Celebrate the season with this easy, flavorful Pumpkin Blondies Recipe made to bring warmth to your autumn evenings.

Homemade Brown Butter Pumpkin Blondies with Cream Frosting for Cozy Nights

A Cozy Fall Memory with Brown Butter Pumpkin Blondies

There’s something magical about the first cool evening of autumn. I remember standing by the kitchen window, a soft breeze carrying the scent of crisp leaves as butter sizzled gently on the stove. As it browned, the air filled with a rich, nutty aroma — that unmistakable smell that would soon become Brown Butter Pumpkin Blondies. The sound of a whisk, the warmth of the oven, and the soft hum of a favorite playlist made that night unforgettable.

Those Brown Butter Pumpkin Blondies became a fall tradition — chewy, golden bars with a deep caramel-like sweetness that only browned butter can bring. Each batch pulled me closer to the season’s simple joy: cozy nights, candles glowing, and loved ones stealing bites from the cooling rack when they thought I wasn’t looking. The subtle pumpkin flavor, combined with spice and butter, made the kitchen feel like a warm embrace.

Even now, every time I melt butter and watch it bubble into amber perfection, I’m reminded of how comfort can be baked right into dessert. These Brown Butter Pumpkin Blondies aren’t just a treat — they’re a mood, a little slice of calm during busy autumn days, and the best excuse to slow down and savor the season.

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Stack of Brown Butter Pumpkin Blondies topped with cream frosting and sprinkled with pumpkin seasoning.

Homemade Brown Butter Pumpkin Blondies with Cream Frosting for Cozy Nights


  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 9 blondies 1x

Description

As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, these Brown Butter Pumpkin Blondies capture the cozy essence of fall baking. With a nutty brown butter base, warm pumpkin seasoning, and a luscious cream frosting, they’re perfect for autumn evenings shared with friends or enjoyed solo.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup pumpkin butter
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 3 tablespoons butter, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • Instructions

    1. Brown the butter by melting it in a saucepan over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes until golden and nutty, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.

    2. Preheat the oven to 350°F and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.

    3. Whisk together the brown sugar, cooled brown butter, pumpkin butter, egg, and vanilla extract in a large bowl.

    4. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, pumpkin seasoning, baking powder, and salt; gradually fold into the wet mixture until just combined.

    5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.

    6. Allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan on a cooling rack before frosting.

    7. Beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy to make the cream frosting.

    8. Spread the frosting over the cooled blondies, sprinkle with pumpkin seasoning if desired, then slice into squares and serve.

    • Prep Time: 15 minutes
    • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
    • Category: dessert
    • Method: baking
    • Cuisine: american

    Nutrition

    • Serving Size: 1 blondie

    Keywords: brown butter pumpkin blondies, pumpkin butter, pumpkin seasoning, cream frosting, pumpkin blondies recipe, homemade pumpkin desserts, fall baking

    Why Pumpkin Butter and Cream Frosting Make the Difference

    What truly sets these Brown Butter Pumpkin Blondies apart is the marriage of Pumpkin Butter and Cream Frosting. The Pumpkin Butter adds a velvety richness, amplifying that deep, earthy sweetness that defines fall desserts. It pairs beautifully with Pumpkin Seasoning — a gentle blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove — to create layers of flavor that feel both nostalgic and indulgent.

    Then comes the Cream Frosting, smooth and slightly tangy, balancing out the warm caramel tones of the blondie base. When chilled, it offers a cool contrast; when served soft, it melts blissfully into each bite. The browned butter underneath enhances everything — its toasty nuttiness giving these blondies a luxurious edge usually reserved for bakery treats.

    And the best part? These blondies are versatile. You can turn them into a satisfying protein dessert by mixing in your favorite powder or enjoy them as a cozy breakfast bake alongside coffee. However you serve them, the combination of Pumpkin Butter and Cream Frosting transforms a humble blondie recipe into a seasonal masterpiece worth savoring each fall.

    The Must-Have Ingredients for Perfect Pumpkin Blondies

    Getting the texture and depth of flavor right in your Brown Butter Pumpkin Blondies begins with choosing quality ingredients. Each element plays a role in creating the chewy, caramel-rich base and smooth Cream Frosting that crown these cozy treats.

    For the Blondie Base:

    • 1 cup all-purpose flour – You can substitute with a gluten-free blend if preferred.
    • 1 teaspoon Pumpkin Seasoning – A mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and clove ties the flavor to autumn.
    • ½ teaspoon baking powder – Keeps the blondies dense yet soft.
    • ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and sharpens the butter flavor.

    For the Brown Butter Mixture:

    • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter – Browning it adds a toasty, nutty richness.
    • ¾ cup brown sugar – Light or dark works; darker adds deeper molasses tones.
    • ¼ cup Pumpkin Butter – Apple butter can substitute for a fruity twist.
    • 1 large egg – Binds ingredients.
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Complements the caramel tones of browned butter.

    For the Cream Frosting:

    • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened – Whipped until light.
    • 3 tablespoons butter, softened – For a creamy base.
    • 1 cup powdered sugar – Adds sweetness and smoothness.
    • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances flavor.
    • Optional: pinch of Pumpkin Seasoning for garnish.

    Substitution Tips:

    • Coconut sugar or maple syrup for refined-sugar-free sweetness.
    • Dairy-free butters for vegan-friendly alternatives.
    • Add pecans or white chocolate chips for texture.

    Essential Tools:

    • Medium saucepan
    • Mixing bowls
    • Whisk and spatula
    • 8×8-inch baking dish lined with parchment
    • Electric mixer
    • Cooling rack and offset spatula

    Step-by-Step Guide to Making Brown Butter Pumpkin Blondies

    StepTaskTime/TemperatureTips
    1Brown the butter5–7 min, medium heatStir constantly until golden and nutty
    2Mix dry ingredientsCombine evenly for smooth texture
    3Combine and bake350°F, 25–30 minDon’t overbake; center should be soft
    4Frost when coolRoom temperature frosting spreads best
    1. Brown the butter: Melt butter in a saucepan, stirring until it turns golden brown with a nutty scent. Remove from heat and cool.
    2. Prepare the batter: Whisk brown sugar, cooled butter, Pumpkin Butter, egg, and vanilla. Combine dry ingredients separately, then fold into the wet mixture.
    3. Bake the blondies: Pour into the baking dish and bake at 350°F for 25–30 minutes. Cool completely before frosting.
    4. Make the frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth, then add sugar and vanilla. Spread over cooled blondies and dust with Pumpkin Seasoning.
    5. Slice and serve: Cut into squares and enjoy with coffee or tea.

    How to Serve Pumpkin Blondies for Cozy Nights

    Once your Brown Butter Pumpkin Blondies are cooled and frosted, it’s time for the most rewarding part — serving and savoring them. These golden squares pair beautifully with coffee, chai, or cocoa. The brown butter’s nutty aroma and smooth Cream Frosting make each bite feel like a comforting indulgence.

    For extra appeal, drizzle warm caramel or maple syrup on top. Sprinkle Pumpkin Seasoning or crushed nuts for texture. For gatherings, slice into small squares and serve on a rustic board with cinnamon sticks for a festive look.

    Experiment with variations such as muffin-style bites or folding white chocolate chips into the batter. For breakfast, skip the frosting and spread a little Pumpkin Butter on warm blondie bars — simple, satisfying, and irresistibly autumnal.

    Flavor Pairings and Seasonal Twists

    These Brown Butter Pumpkin Blondies adapt beautifully to every season. A maple or salted caramel drizzle enhances the toasty butter flavor, while chopped walnuts or candied pecans add crunch. The balance of Pumpkin Butter and Pumpkin Seasoning complements cozy fall drinks like apple cider or spiced tea and even pairs wonderfully with a scoop of ice cream.

    Transform leftovers by layering them with yogurt and fruit for breakfast parfaits or crumbling them over oatmeal for a touch of dessert at dawn. Every adaptation celebrates comfort and creativity, making sure not a crumb goes to waste.

    Frequently Asked Questions about Brown Butter Pumpkin Blondies

    Can I make these blondies ahead of time?

    Yes! Bake a day in advance, cool completely, and store unfrosted. Add Cream Frosting right before serving for freshness and a sprinkle of Pumpkin Seasoning on top.

    How should I store them?

    Frosted blondies should be kept in the fridge for up to five days. Bring to room temperature before serving for soft, creamy frosting.

    Can I freeze them?

    Yes. Freeze individually wrapped bars for up to three months. Thaw before frosting or add fresh Cream Frosting after defrosting for best texture.

    What’s a substitute for Pumpkin Butter?

    Mix canned pumpkin with maple syrup and Pumpkin Seasoning, or use apple butter for a fruity variation that still complements browned butter.

    Can I skip the frosting?

    Definitely. They’re rich enough on their own. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle light maple glaze for a breakfast-friendly option.

    Cozy Nights Made Sweeter with Pumpkin Blondies

    Baking Brown Butter Pumpkin Blondies captures the essence of fall with its fragrant butter, spiced warmth, and velvety Cream Frosting. From golden leaves to glowing ovens, every step fills your home with seasonal comfort and joy.

    This Pumpkin Blondies Recipe transforms simple ingredients into one of the most satisfying Homemade Pumpkin Desserts. The combination of Brown Butter, Pumpkin Butter, and Pumpkin Seasoning creates an irresistible balance of nutty, sweet, and spiced flavors that leave a lasting impression.

    Whether shared with guests or enjoyed alone by candlelight, these blondies turn ordinary evenings into cozy moments worth remembering. Bake a batch, savor each bite, and let their warmth remind you why fall is the sweetest season of all.

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