Chocolate Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake
Chocolate Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake
Get ready to impress your friends and family with a treat that’s as festive as it is delicious: the Chocolate Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake! This delightful dessert combines rich, fudgy brownies with a luscious chocolate ganache, all topped with adorable orange candy melt strawberry pumpkins that will make your fall gatherings even more special.
Perfect for Halloween parties, Thanksgiving celebrations, or any autumn get-together, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees a sweet finish to your event. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just looking for a fun and creative project, this Chocolate Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake will be a hit with both kids and adults alike!
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Ingredients
Serves: 16
Preparation Time: 30 minutes, Baking Time: 25-30 minutes, Cooling Time: 1 hour, Decorating Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes
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
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 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:
- 12-15 fresh strawberries
- 1 cup orange candy melts
- Fresh mint or basil sprigs (optional, to resemble vines)
Instructions
For the Chocolate Brownie Cake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal. Grease the parchment paper.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, remove from heat and add sugar. Stir until combined.
- Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the butter mixture, stirring until fully incorporated.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
For the Chocolate Ganache Frosting:
- In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Do not let it boil.
- Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let sit for 2 minutes. Stir until smooth and fully combined.
- Add the butter and stir until melted and the ganache is glossy. Set aside.
For the Pumpkin Patch Decorations:
- Wash and thoroughly dry the strawberries. Line a tray with parchment paper.
- Melt the orange candy melts in a double boiler or according to packaging instructions.
- Hold each strawberry by the stem and dip into the melted candy, coating it completely. Place on the prepared baking sheet to set.
- Remove the cooled brownie cake from the pan using the parchment overhang. Spread the chocolate ganache frosting evenly over the top.
- Place the dipped strawberries on top of each brownie piece, pressing slightly to secure. Arrange mint leaves around the strawberries to create the look of a pumpkin patch.
- Cut the frosted brownie cake into squares or rectangles to resemble individual brownies.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Organic Cocoa PowderParchment Paper Baking SheetsWilton Orange Candy Melts
FAQs
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate for the ganache? Yes, you can use milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter ganache. The consistency and richness will be slightly different.
How can I store the brownies? Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week.
Can I use white chocolate for the ganache? Yes, you can substitute white chocolate for a different flavor profile. Adjust the cream quantity slightly if needed to achieve the right consistency.
Can I make the brownies ahead of time? Absolutely! You can bake the brownies a day in advance and decorate them closer to serving time.
What if I don't have orange candy melts? You can use white chocolate and add orange food coloring. Alternatively, you can use any other color to fit your theme.
Variations
Nutty Twist: Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds) to the brownie batter for added crunch.
Spiced Pumpkin Patch: Add 1 teaspoon of pumpkin spice to the brownie batter for a festive flavor.
Berry Patch: Use raspberries or blackberries instead of strawberries for a different look and flavor.
Mint Chocolate: Add 1 teaspoon of mint extract to the ganache for a refreshing twist.
Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Enjoy your delicious and creative Chocolate Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake!
Congratulations, you've crafted a Chocolate Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake that’s both delicious and visually stunning! This dessert is a perfect blend of rich, fudgy brownies and creamy ganache, topped with adorable orange candy melt strawberry pumpkins that capture the spirit of the season. It’s a delightful addition to any fall gathering, guaranteed to impress your guests and satisfy their sweet cravings. Enjoy the compliments and happy faces as you share this festive treat with your loved ones. Happy baking and happy autumn!