Newcastle thumped Champions League opponents Benfica 3-0 on Tuesday night. Anthony Gordon gave Newcastle a 1-0 lead before Harvey Barnes struck twice after the break.
Afterwards, Howe said: "It's a real head-scratcher. We know they are good players.
"When we see us playing like tonight and attacking like that, it's hard to figure out
"It was great to see Gordon and Murphy combining for the first goal. Anthony was very direct and athletic, it was a very good night for him. But we must continue this kind of performance. It's the level we want to reach.
"Our forwards have regained confidence tonight."
He added, "It wasn't an easy game. Benfica have an incredible European pedigree and have a manager who has been there and done everything.
"Even in the first half, we created some great chances, but we had to be patient to score the first goal. We scored three superb goals and were a constant threat throughout the match."