Fudgy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars (Pumpkin Blondies)

If you’re looking for a delicious dessert that captures the essence of fall, then you have to try these Fudgy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars (Pumpkin Blondies)! They are the perfect blend of rich chocolate and warm pumpkin flavor, making each bite a cozy experience. Whether you need a sweet treat for a busy weeknight or something special for family gatherings, these bars are sure to bring smiles all around.

What I adore about this recipe is how easy it is to whip up. You’ll find that it involves simple ingredients and minimal fuss—perfect for any home baker. Plus, they taste amazing warm out of the oven or at room temperature, making them incredibly versatile!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Made in one pot on the stove, these bars come together in no time!
• Fudgy Delight: Just like brownies, the fudgy texture will leave you wanting more.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the combination of pumpkin and chocolate.
• Make Ahead: These bars store well and even freeze nicely for later enjoyment.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy evening at home or a festive gathering, they fit right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! You likely have most of these in your pantry already. They come together beautifully to create those delightful Fudgy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars (Pumpkin Blondies).

Here’s what you need:

• 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 (I like Mexican vanilla)
• 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 of this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with your Fudgy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars (Pumpkin Blondies). Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Change Up the Chips: Swap out semisweet chocolate chips for white chocolate or butterscotch chips if you want something different.
• Spice It Up: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger along with your pumpkin pie spice for an extra kick.
• Mix in Dried Fruits: A handful of dried cranberries or raisins can add a lovely chewiness.

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

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This ensures that your bars bake evenly. Spray a 9×13 inch pan with nonstick spray, or line it with parchment paper. I personally prefer parchment as it makes lifting the bars out so much easier later on!

Step 2: Melt the Butter

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 cup of butter. If you’re using salted butter like I do, it adds extra flavor! Keep an eye on it until it’s bubbly and hot.

Step 3: Toast the Spices

Once the butter is melted, stir in 1 tablespoon of pumpkin pie spice. Letting it toast in the hot butter enhances its flavor and aroma—trust me, your kitchen will smell divine!

Step 4: Add Sugars and Pumpkin

Now it’s time to mix things up! Stir in both the granulated sugar and packed brown sugar until combined. Then add in that luscious canned pumpkin puree. Remember not to use pumpkin pie filling; we want pure pumpkin goodness here!

Step 5: Incorporate Vanilla and Salt

Following that, mix in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt. These additions bring depth to your bars’ flavors!

Step 6: Add Egg

Next up is the egg! Stir it into your mixture vigorously so it doesn’t curdle. If your mix is still very hot from melting the butter, let it cool slightly before adding the egg.

Step 7: Combine Dry Ingredients

Now we’re ready for the dry ingredients! Add 2 cups of flour—make sure to spoon and level it—and sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of baking powder on top without mixing yet. Use your teaspoon to gently stir that baking powder into the flour before combining everything.

Step 8: Mix It All Together

Carefully stir until most lumps disappear but don’t over-mix! Like brownies, we want fudgy bars—not tough ones.

Step 9: Bake Your Bars

Pour your thick batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly across. Then sprinkle with both semisweet and dark chocolate chips on top—don’t fold them in just yet!

Bake at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes. They’re done when a toothpick comes out clean from the center.

Step 10: Cool and Slice

Allow your bars to cool before lifting them out using parchment paper. Once cooled enough to handle, slice them into squares—unless you’re like me and can’t resist diving right in!

Now you’re ready to enjoy these scrumptious Fudgy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars (Pumpkin Blondies)! Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or later on as leftovers, they are sure to be a hit!

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

Creating the perfect fudgy pumpkin chocolate chip bars is all about the little details! Here are some tips to ensure your bars turn out irresistibly delicious every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh baking powder and spices can make a significant difference in flavor and texture. Stale ingredients might not give your bars the lift and rich taste you desire.
• Don’t overmix: When combining the flour with the wet ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough bars instead of the soft, fudgy texture we love.
• Adjust baking time: Ovens can vary in temperature, so keep an eye on your bars as they bake. Start checking at 25 minutes, and remember that they’ll continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven.
• Let them cool: While it’s tempting to dive right in, allowing the bars to cool for a bit helps them set properly, making slicing easier and preventing them from falling apart.
• Experiment with mix-ins: Feel free to add nuts or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor. Chopped walnuts or cranberries can add a delightful twist!

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

These fudgy pumpkin chocolate chip bars are not only delicious but also versatile! You can serve them in various ways to suit any occasion.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a creamy contrast that enhances the flavors beautifully.
• Cinnamon sugar sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar on top provides a sweet finish that complements the pumpkin spice perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The cold creaminess of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with warm bars, creating a delightful contrast in temperature and flavor.
• Spiced chai tea: A cup of spiced chai tea offers warm, comforting spices that echo the flavors of your pumpkin blondies, creating a cozy pairing.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances out the sweetness of the bars nicely.

With these serving suggestions in mind, your fudgy pumpkin chocolate chip bars will not only shine on their own but also create a delightful experience for everyone at your table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Fudgy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch in advance and enjoy them throughout the week or save some for later.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep the bars in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for 2-3 days before they start to dry out.
• If you prefer, you can keep them in the refrigerator for a longer shelf life.

Freezing

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a ziplock bag.
• Label the bag with the date, and freeze for up to 3 months.
• When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw on the counter while still sealed.

Reheating

• For a warm treat, pop a bar in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, you can warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

If you have any questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries that might help you out.

Can I make Fudgy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars (Pumpkin Blondies) without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute the egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water). This will help maintain the fudgy texture.

How do I know when my Fudgy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars (Pumpkin Blondies) are done baking?

They are ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The edges should slightly pull away from the pan.

Can I use different types of chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix it up by using milk chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, or even butterscotch chips if you prefer. Just stick with semisweet and dark chocolate for that rich flavor combination!

What can I substitute for pumpkin pie spice?

If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice on hand, you can create your own by mixing equal parts cinnamon and nutmeg, along with a pinch of ginger and allspice. Experiment until you find your favorite blend!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Fudgy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars! They are so special with their rich flavors and fudgy texture that brings warmth to any occasion. Whether shared with friends or enjoyed solo, these bars are bound to be a hit. Enjoy your baking adventure and don’t forget to savor every bite!