Fudgy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars (Pumpkin Blondies)

If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the cozy flavors of fall with the indulgent richness of chocolate, then you have to try these Fudgy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars (Pumpkin Blondies)! This recipe is close to my heart because it brings together the warmth of pumpkin and spices with the delightful sweetness of dark chocolate. They’re perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something sweet but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Plus, they work wonderfully for family gatherings or as a cozy treat when friends come over.

I love how easy these bars are to whip up; you’ll be amazed at how quickly they come together. You can mix everything in just one pot on the stove, which means less mess and more time to enjoy those delicious bites. Trust me, once you take your first bite, you’ll understand why this is a go-to recipe in my home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These bars are made in one pot and come together in under 40 minutes—perfect for those last-minute cravings!
• Family-Friendly Treat: With their fudgy texture and sweet chocolate chips, everyone will love them—kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake a batch ahead of time and store them for busy days or surprise guests.
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of pumpkin spice and rich chocolate creates a flavor profile that’s simply irresistible!
• Freezer-Friendly: These bars freeze beautifully, so you can save some for later without any fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these delightful Fudgy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars (Pumpkin Blondies), gather these simple and wholesome ingredients. They are easy to find and create a wonderfully rich flavor profile that everyone will adore!

• 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add nuts: Toss in 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch.
• Spice it up: If you want more warmth, add extra cinnamon or even a pinch of nutmeg to enhance those autumn flavors.
• Mix in dried fruit: Consider adding 1/2 cup of raisins or cranberries for a chewy surprise!
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.

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

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. While it warms up, spray a 9×13 inch pan with nonstick spray or line it with parchment paper. Lining with parchment makes lifting the bars out easier later on!

Step 2: Melt the Butter

In a medium saucepan, melt 1 cup of butter over medium heat until it’s bubbly and hot. Using salted butter gives these bars an added layer of flavor, but feel free to use unsalted if that’s what you have on hand!

Step 3: Toast the Spices

Once the butter is melted, quickly stir in 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice. Toasting the spices for just a few seconds enhances their aroma and brings out their full flavor potential—this step is key!

Step 4: Combine Sugars

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in both sugars—1 cup granulated sugar and 1 cup packed brown sugar—until smooth. This combination gives our bars that sweet, caramel-like taste we all know and love.

Step 5: Add Pumpkin Puree

Next, mix in your canned pumpkin puree. Remember not to use pumpkin pie filling! This luscious puree adds moisture and depth without being overly sweet.

Step 6: Flavor It Up

Add in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt. The vanilla adds sweetness while balancing the flavors perfectly.

Step 7: Incorporate Egg

Now it’s time for the egg! Stir it in vigorously right away so it doesn’t curdle. If your mixture is still super hot from melting the butter, let it cool slightly before adding the egg.

Step 8: Combine Dry Ingredients

Add your flour (spooned and leveled) into the mixture without stirring yet. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon baking powder over the flour, then gently stir it into the flour before mixing everything together.

Step 9: Mix It Up

Stir until most lumps are gone; just be careful not to overbeat! We want soft, fudgy bars—not tough ones like overbaked brownies!

Step 10: Pour Into Pan

Pour your batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly to reach all edges.

Step 11: Add Chocolate Chips

Sprinkle both semisweet and dark chocolate chips over the top. Gently fold them into the batter using your spatula so they remain intact instead of melting too much.

Step 12: Bake Away!

Bake at 350 degrees F for about 25–30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. The edges should pull away slightly from the sides of the pan—a sign they’re ready!

Step 13: Cool & Slice

Let them cool completely before lifting them from the pan using parchment paper for easy slicing. Of course, I won’t judge if you want to dive right in while they’re still warm!

Step 14: Store Leftovers

Keep any leftover bars tightly sealed at room temperature; they’ll stay fresh for about 2–3 days before drying out.

Step 15: Freeze Them!

These bars freeze well too! Just pop them into a ziplock bag and store them in your freezer for up to three months. Let them thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy more deliciousness!

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

Baking these fudgy pumpkin bars can be a delightful experience, especially with a few handy tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your egg and butter to room temperature helps them incorporate better, leading to a smoother batter that bakes evenly.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing too much can make your bars tough instead of fudgy. Stir just until combined for that soft, chewy texture we all love.
• Check for doneness carefully: Ovens can vary in temperature, so start checking your bars at around 25 minutes. You want a toothpick that comes out clean but not dry!
• Let them cool completely before slicing: This allows the bars to set up nicely, making it easier to get perfect squares without crumbling.
• Experiment with mix-ins: Feel free to swap in some nuts or dried fruits if you’re looking for a twist! They add great texture and flavor variation.

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

These fudgy pumpkin chocolate chip bars are not only delicious but also versatile in presentation. Here are some creative ways to serve them that will impress family and friends!

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop on top adds a light and airy touch that complements the richness of the bars.
• Chopped pecans or walnuts: Sprinkling some toasted nuts on top adds both crunch and extra flavor.
• Drizzle of caramel sauce: A sweet drizzle enhances the overall taste and makes for an eye-catching presentation.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, fudgy bars.
• Spiced chai tea: The aromatic spices in chai complement the pumpkin flavors perfectly, creating a cozy pairing.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances out the richness of the bars while adding a burst of color.
• Coffee or espresso: The robust flavors of coffee enhance the chocolate notes in these bars, making it a classic combo for dessert time.

Enjoy crafting these delightful treats! Whether it’s for a special occasion or just because, Fudgy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars are sure to be a hit.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Fudgy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars are not only delicious, but they’re also perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week or share them with friends.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep the bars in an airtight container on your countertop.
• They will stay fresh for 2-3 days.
• If you want to maintain their fudginess, avoid refrigerating them.

Freezing

• Allow the bars to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a ziplock freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the bag!

Reheating

• To enjoy them warm, take out a bar and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
• For an extra treat, microwave a bar for about 10-15 seconds until warmed through.
• Enjoy with a scoop of your favorite non-dairy ice cream for a delightful dessert!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about these delightful pumpkin bars.

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

Yes! You can replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or applesauce (1/4 cup). This will help keep the bars moist and fudgy.

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

Your bars are ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The edges should also be pulling slightly away from the pan.

Can I substitute other spices in this recipe?

Absolutely! If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice, you can use a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to achieve a similar flavor profile.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Fudgy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars (Pumpkin Blondies)?

Adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can provide extra texture. You might also consider mixing in some dried cranberries or white chocolate chips for variation!

Final Thoughts

I hope you give these Fudgy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars a try! They’re not only a wonderful fall treat but also an easy way to brighten up any day. With their rich flavors and fudgy texture, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy making them, sharing them, and most importantly, indulging in every delicious bite!