Fudgy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars (Pumpkin Blondies)

If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that brings together the warmth of pumpkin and the delightful richness of chocolate, then you’ve stumbled upon a gem! These Fudgy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars (Pumpkin Blondies) are just the treat to make your kitchen feel like autumn, no matter the season. They are incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you need a sweet indulgence that everyone will love.

What makes these pumpkin bars so special? It’s that dreamy fudgy texture paired with the comforting spices that remind us of home. Imagine biting into a soft, warm bar filled with melty chocolate chips. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a go-to recipe in your collection!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just one pot and takes only 40 minutes from start to finish!
• Fudgy Delight: The melted butter creates a rich, fudgy texture that’s simply irresistible.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will fall in love with the combination of pumpkin and chocolate flavors.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for any occasion—from potlucks to cozy nights at home.
• Make Ahead: These bars can be baked in advance and stored for later enjoyment!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Fudgy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars (Pumpkin Blondies) are made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what you need for this delicious treat:

• 1 cup butter (2 sticks)
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1 (8-oz) cup pumpkin (canned, not pumpkin pie filling)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (Mexican vanilla is my favorite!)
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 large egg
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup dark chocolate chips

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Add Nuts: For some crunch, toss in a cup of chopped walnuts or pecans!
• Spice it Up: Switch out the pumpkin pie spice for cinnamon or add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.
• Chip Swap: Use milk chocolate chips if you’re looking for something sweeter or go for white chocolate chips for a fun twist!
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these bars gluten-free.

How to Make Fudgy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars (Pumpkin Blondies)

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This step ensures that your bars bake evenly and come out perfectly fudgy every time. While that’s heating up, spray a 9×13 inch pan with nonstick spray or line it with parchment paper—this will help you lift the bars out easily later!

Step 2: Melt the Butter

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 cup of butter until it’s bubbly but not burnt. Using salted butter adds an extra depth of flavor; however, unsalted works just as well! Once melted, we’ll add our spices to infuse that delicious flavor.

Step 3: Toast the Spices

Add in 1 tablespoon of pumpkin pie spice right into the hot butter. Letting the spices toast for just a few seconds will release their aromas and enhance their flavor. After this quick toast, remove from heat—the aroma should be heavenly!

Step 4: Combine Sugars

Now stir in both sugars—1 cup granulated sugar and 1 cup packed brown sugar—until they are fully combined with the melted butter. This will create a sweet base that complements our pumpkin perfectly.

Step 5: Add Pumpkin Puree

Next, mix in 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree. Remember not to use pumpkin pie filling! The pure pumpkin gives these bars their moistness without added sugars or spices.

Step 6: Flavor It Up

To enhance our batter further, add in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt. The vanilla adds warmth while balancing out the sweetness.

Step 7: Incorporate Egg

Crack in one large egg and stir vigorously! It’s essential to mix quickly so that the egg doesn’t curdle in the warm mixture. If it feels too hot, let it cool down slightly first.

Step 8: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, measure out 2 cups of all-purpose flour (make sure to spoon and level it). Add in 1 teaspoon of baking powder directly into the flour before combining them into your wet ingredients—this helps avoid any lumps from forming.

Step 9: Combine Carefully

Gently mix the dry ingredients into your wet mixture until most lumps are gone. Be careful not to overbeat—just like brownies, we want them soft and fudgy without becoming tough!

Step 10: Prepare for Baking

Pour your thick batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly across.

Step 11: Add Chocolate Chips

Sprinkle both semisweet and dark chocolate chips over top—one cup each! Use your spatula to gently fold them in without mixing too much; we want those beautiful pockets of chocolate throughout!

Step 12: Bake Away!

Pop your pan into the oven at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes. They’re done when a toothpick inserted comes out clean with no wet batter clinging on.

Step 13: Cool Before Slicing

Let these delectable bars cool before lifting them out using parchment paper for easy slicing—or dive right in while they’re still warm if you can’t wait!

Step 14 & Beyond: Storing Your Treats

Keep leftover bars tightly sealed on the counter; they’ll stay fresh for about 2-3 days.

Bonus Tip: Freeze Them!

These bars freeze beautifully! Store any extras in a ziplock bag where they can last up to three months—perfect for when cravings hit!

Now you’re ready to enjoy these Fudgy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars (Pumpkin Blondies)! I can’t wait for you to try them; I know they’ll bring smiles all around!

Pro Tips for Making Fudgy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars (Pumpkin Blondies)

These delightful bars are sure to impress, and with a few simple tips, you’ll ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder is fresh and your pumpkin puree is not expired. Fresh ingredients enhance the flavor and texture of your bars.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to keep those fudgy, melt-in-your-mouth textures. Overmixing can lead to tough bars rather than the soft and chewy goodness you want.

• Check for Doneness Carefully: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your bars as they bake. Pull them out when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs to avoid drying them out.

• Let Them Cool: Allowing your bars to cool completely before slicing makes it easier to get clean cuts. Plus, they taste even better after resting for a bit!

• Experiment with Add-Ins: Don’t hesitate to mix in nuts or different types of chocolate chips! They add extra flavor and texture that can take your pumpkin blondies to the next level.

How to Serve Fudgy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars (Pumpkin Blondies)

Serving these delicious bars is all about presentation and pairing them with complementary flavors. Here are some fun ideas for making your dessert shine!

Garnishes

• Drizzle of Caramel Sauce: A light drizzle over the top adds a sweet touch that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
• Whipped Coconut Cream: For a dairy-free option, serve with a dollop of whipped coconut cream for an indulgent finish.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor contrast.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold nature of vanilla ice cream contrasts wonderfully with the warm bars, making it an irresistible pairing.
• Spiced Chai Tea: A warm cup of spiced chai tea enhances the cozy flavors of the pumpkin and spices in the bars.
• Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad can provide a refreshing balance to the richness of the brownies while adding bright colors to your plate.
• Coffee: A steaming cup of coffee is always a classic choice for dessert; its bitterness complements the sweetness perfectly.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Fudgy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars are sure to be a hit at any gathering or cozy night in! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Fudgy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars (Pumpkin Blondies) are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time, making them an excellent snack or dessert option for busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature.
• Ensure they are tightly sealed to maintain freshness.
• Enjoy them within 2-3 days for the best texture and flavor.

Freezing

• Cut the bars into individual pieces for easy serving.
• Place them in a ziplock bag or airtight container, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the sealed bag on the counter before enjoying!

Reheating

• To enjoy these bars warm, reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, you can warm them in a preheated oven at 300 degrees F for about 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

You might have some questions about these delicious pumpkin bars. Here are some common queries!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned for Fudgy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars (Pumpkin Blondies)?

Absolutely! If you prefer fresh pumpkin, make sure to cook and puree it until smooth before measuring out one cup.

What’s the best way to store Fudgy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars (Pumpkin Blondies)?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for 2-3 days!

Can I substitute the chocolate chips?

Yes! Feel free to use white chocolate chips or even chopped nuts if you want to switch things up.

Are these Fudgy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars suitable for freezing?

Yes! These bars freeze wonderfully. Just make sure they’re well-sealed in a ziplock or airtight container.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Fudgy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars (Pumpkin Blondies) as much as I do! They’re a delightful treat that combines the warmth of pumpkin with rich chocolatey goodness. Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, I’m sure they’ll bring smiles all around. Happy baking!