Can I use boxed brownie mix instead of homemade batter?

Yes, you can! Just prepare the boxed mix as directed, fold in chopped candy bars, and bake. The candy adds extra flavor and texture.

Which candy bars work best?

Snickers, Twix, Kit Kat, Reese’s, and Milky Way work perfectly. You can mix and match depending on your favorites.

Don’t overbake them! Remove the pan when the center still looks slightly glossy—it will set as it cools. Store in an airtight container.

Yes, you can replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for the same fudgy texture.

A cozy, hearty stew with tender beef simmered with creamy pumpkin puree, root vegetables, and warming spices — perfect for chilly fall evenings.

Scale

2 pounds beef stew meat, cubed

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

3 garlic cloves, minced

2 cups pumpkin puree

4 cups beef broth

2 carrots, sliced

2 potatoes, diced

1 cup chopped celery

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon paprika

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

1 tablespoon tomato paste

1 tablespoon flour (optional, for thickening)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add beef cubes and sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

2. In the same pot, add onion and garlic; sauté until fragrant, about 2 minutes.

3. Add carrots, celery, and potatoes; cook 3–4 minutes to soften slightly.

4. Stir in pumpkin puree, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, paprika, salt, pepper, and cinnamon.

5. Return beef to the pot and bring to a boil.

6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1½–2 hours until beef is tender and flavors meld.

7. Optional: Mix flour with a few tablespoons of hot broth to form a slurry, stir into stew and simmer 5 more minutes to thicken.

8. Serve hot with crusty bread, rice, or a sprinkle of parsley.

Use fresh roasted pumpkin or canned puree.

For a slow cooker version, brown the beef first and cook on low 6–8 hours.

Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream or coconut milk for extra richness.

Add spinach or kale in the last 10 minutes for color and nutrition.