Fudgy Chocolate Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake
Add Preferred SourceThis fudgy Chocolate Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake is the perfect combination of fudgy, chocolatey goodness topped with adorable strawberry pumpkins. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for creating some festive fun at any gathering without breaking the bank.
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This pumpkin patch brownie cake just screams fall, doesn’t it? I love seeing everyone’s smiling faces when I place it on the table; it’s great for Halloween, Thanksgiving, and potlucks. It almost feels like cheating because it’s so easy to make, but it looks like you went that extra mile.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll need all the ingredients shown in the photograph below.
How to Make Chocolate Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake with Step-By-Step Instructions
Scroll down for the full recipe card containing a full printable recipe and measurements in both US customary and metric units.
Making this pumpkin patch brownie cake is easy if you follow my straightforward instructions.
Prepare the Brownie Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper, then grease it well.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, then remove from heat and stir in the sugar until combined.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each, then stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the butter mixture until the batter is smooth and fully incorporated.
SERIOUSLY GOOD
DESSERTS!
Dessert First is a collection of 61 RECIPES to show you that you can make beautiful, impressive desserts right in your own kitchen, no matter your skill level.
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∙ Lemon Pound Cake
∙ Starbucks Cake Pops
∙ Boston Cream Pie
∙ Chocolate Mousse
∙ Matcha Tiramisu
...and much more!
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Bake the Brownies
Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Make the Ganache Frosting
In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it starts to simmer, being careful not to let it boil.
Pour the hot cream over the chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl and let it sit for a couple of minutes. Stir until the mixture becomes smooth and glossy. Add the butter and stir until melted.
Decorate the Pumpkin Patch
Melt the orange candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
Dip the strawberries into the melted candy, ensuring each strawberry is fully coated. Place the coated strawberries on a parchment-lined tray and let them set.
Once the brownies are completely cooled, remove them from the pan using the parchment overhang. Spread the chocolate ganache frosting evenly over the top.
Place the coated strawberries on top of the frosted brownies, gently pressing them down.
Optionally, add fresh mint or basil sprigs around the strawberries to resemble vines. Cut the brownies into squares and enjoy!
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Brownie Cake:
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 medium eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Chocolate Ganache Frosting:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces dark chocolate chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Pumpkin Patch Decoration:
- 15 fresh strawberries
- 1 cup orange candy melts
- Fresh mint or basil sprigs optional to resemble vines
Instructions
For the Chocolate Brownie Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and grease it.
- Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat, then remove from heat and stir in the sugar. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.1 cup unsalted butter, 2 cups granulated sugar, 4 medium eggs, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix this into the butter mixture until fully combined.1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 cup cocoa powder, ½ teaspoon baking powder, ¼ teaspoon salt
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with some moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
For the Chocolate Ganache Frosting:
- Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer, but do not let it boil.1 cup heavy cream
- Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl and let it sit for 2 minutes. Stir until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.8 ounces dark chocolate
- Add the butter and stir until it is completely incorporated and the ganache is glossy. Allow it to cool slightly before using.2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Pumpkin Patch Decorations:
- Melt the orange candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring in between until smooth.1 cup orange candy melts
- Dip the cleaned and dried strawberries into the melted candy, covering them entirely, and place them on a parchment-lined tray to set.15 fresh strawberries
- Once the brownies have cooled, remove them from the pan using the parchment paper. Spread the ganache frosting evenly over the top of the brownies.
- Arrange the dipped strawberries on top, pressing them gently into the frosting. Optionally, place mint or basil sprigs around the strawberries to create a pumpkin patch look. Cut into squares and serve!Fresh mint or basil sprigs
Notes
- Chocolate Quality: Use good quality dark chocolate for the ganache—it makes all the difference in flavor.
- Strawberry Prep: Make sure the strawberries are completely dry before dipping to prevent the candy coating from slipping off.
- Brownie Texture: For super fudgy brownies, bake them for 25 minutes. If you prefer a firmer texture, leave them in for the full 30 minutes.
- Clean Slices: Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat brownie squares.
- Ganache Cool Down: Let the ganache cool slightly before spreading it on the brownies to prevent it from being too runny.
- Make Ahead: You can bake the brownies a day in advance and frost them later. Just keep them stored in an airtight container.
Nutrition
SERIOUSLY GOOD
DESSERTS!
Dessert First is a collection of 61 RECIPES to show you that you can make beautiful, impressive desserts right in your own kitchen, no matter your skill level.
Immediate eBook download. No physical book available.
∙ Lemon Pound Cake
∙ Starbucks Cake Pops
∙ Boston Cream Pie
∙ Chocolate Mousse
∙ Matcha Tiramisu
...and much more!
Includes ad-free recipes like:
Recipe Notes and Expert Tips
I don’t think you’ll run into any problems making this cake, but here’s some extra tips to help you.
- Chocolate Quality: Use good quality dark chocolate for the ganache—it makes all the difference in flavor.
- Strawberry Prep: Make sure the strawberries are completely dry before dipping to prevent the candy coating from slipping off.
- Brownie Texture: For super fudgy brownies, bake them for 25 minutes. If you prefer a firmer texture, leave them in for the full 30 minutes.
- Clean Slices: Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat brownie squares.
- Ganache Cool Down: Let the ganache cool slightly before spreading it on the brownies to prevent it from being too runny.
- Make Ahead: You can bake the brownies a day in advance and frost them later. Just keep them stored in an airtight container.
How to Store Leftover Chocolate Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake
Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
If you need to store them longer, the brownies (without strawberries) can be frozen for up to 3 months.
To freeze, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Just note that freezing the strawberries might make them soggy, so it’s best to add fresh ones after thawing.
Our Top 3 Money-Saving Tips for This Recipe
- Canned Pumpkin: Skip the hassle of fresh pumpkins and opt for canned pumpkin puree. It’s cheaper, easier, and still delivers great flavor.
- Affordable Chocolate: You don’t need high-end chocolate for this recipe—go for a quality, affordable brand to keep things budget-friendly.
- Opt for Generic Brands: You can use store-brand sugar, butter, and flour to cut costs without sacrificing taste.
What to Serve With Chocolate Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake
Pair this rich and decadent cake with a cold glass of milk, a cup of hot cocoa, or even a pumpkin spice latte. For a real treat, serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
More Easy Dessert Recipes for You to Try at Home
If you’re looking for more dessert inspiration, then take a look at these tasty recipes!
- Gooey Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Cake
- Pumpkin Bread with Maple Frosting
- Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake
- Banana Bread
- Apple Pie
I may be missing something but when I read the recipe I didn’t see where any pumpkin was used. I also didn’t see it in the pictured ingredients. Where is it listed and when is it incorporated?
Thanks!
Hi Mary, it’s a dessert that looks like a pumpkin patch, it doesn’t actually have pumpkin in it. Sorry for any confusion, we’ve got other pumpkin recipes on the site (and more coming), if search for pumpkin, you’ll see them. Take care, Mandy