Pumpkin Blondies Recipe

If you’re someone who adores the cozy flavors of fall, then you absolutely have to try these Pumpkin Blondies. This recipe brings together the perfect balance of chewy and soft textures with a warm, spiced pumpkin flavor that whispers of crisp autumn days. Each bite melts in your mouth with a lovely mix of pumpkin pie spice and gooey chocolate chips, making Pumpkin Blondies a delightful twist on the classic blondie bar that you’ll want to bake again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple but essential ingredients is the first step to creating Pumpkin Blondies that are bursting with flavor and just the right texture. Every item plays its part, whether it’s the richness of butter, the spice blend that elevates the pumpkin, or the bursts of chocolate that add a touch of indulgence.

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect base and structure for your blondies.
• 1 Tablespoon pumpkin pie spice: A warm, aromatic blend that defines the autumnal flavor.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda: Helps the blondies rise and become tender without getting cakey.
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt (or 1/2 teaspoon regular salt): Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• 1 cup unsalted butter: Adds moisture and richness, ensuring the blondies stay soft.
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens and contributes to the blondies’ chewy texture.
• 1 large egg: Binds ingredients and adds to the tender crumb of the blondies.
• 1 1/2 cups pumpkin puree: Gives those signature pumpkin notes and keeps the bars moist.
• 2 Tablespoons vanilla extract: Adds depth and a touch of warmth to the overall flavor.
• 1 to 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips: Melts into pockets of gooey goodness throughout the bars.

How to Make Pumpkin Blondies

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Butter the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish or place a piece of parchment paper sprayed with nonstick cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze later on.

Step 2: Whisk Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, and salt. This ensures the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed, setting the stage for uniform flavor in each bite.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using an electric mixer, beat the unsalted butter until pale and creamy. Then gradually add the granulated sugar, beating until the mixture becomes fluffy and light. This step is key to achieving a tender, chewy texture with a rich buttery flavor.

Step 4: Mix in Wet Ingredients

To the butter-sugar mixture, add the egg, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract. Blend everything together until smooth and well combined. The pumpkin puree not only adds flavor but also infuses moisture that makes these blondies irresistibly soft.

Step 5: Combine All Ingredients

Slowly add the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter. Then gently fold in the chocolate chips with a rubber spatula, distributing the melty chunks throughout the batter perfectly.

Step 6: Bake the Blondies

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared baking dish and spread it out. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the edges brown too quickly, cover loosely with foil halfway through baking to keep everything moist and tender.

Step 7: Cool and Cut

Allow the pumpkin blondies to cool in the baking dish for about 20 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing into bars. This helps them set up nicely so you get clean cuts and buttery bars that hold together perfectly.

How to Serve Pumpkin Blondies

Garnishes

These Pumpkin Blondies are spectacular on their own, but you can take them to the next level with some lovely garnishes. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a delicate sweetness and looks festive. For an extra touch, drizzle warm caramel sauce or sprinkle chopped toasted pecans on top for contrast in texture.

Side Dishes

Pair your blondies with a scoop of cinnamon-spiced vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. A hot cup of spiced chai latte or robust coffee also complements the warm pumpkin and chocolate flavors, creating a cozy ending to any meal or a satisfying afternoon treat.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings or gifts, cut the Pumpkin Blondies into small bite-sized squares and serve them on a tiered dessert tray. Wrap individual bars in parchment paper tied with twine as charming homemade treats. You could also sandwich them with cream cheese frosting for a decadent pumpkin blondie brownie sandwich.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps them moist and soft, ready to be enjoyed whenever a pumpkin craving hits.

Freezing

If you want to keep them longer, Pumpkin Blondies freeze beautifully. After cooling completely, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating

To enjoy frozen blondies, thaw them at room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This brings back their soft, gooey charm, making each bite taste as fresh as when first baked.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin puree for Pumpkin Blondies?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and ensures consistent texture and flavor. Just make sure it’s pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugar and spices.

Can I substitute the chocolate chips with nuts or dried fruit?

Yes, feel free to customize. Chopped pecans, walnuts, or dried cranberries make wonderful alternatives or additions that complement the pumpkin and spice beautifully.

How can I make Pumpkin Blondies gluten-free?

Try swapping the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Be sure to check the blend includes xanthan gum or add it separately to help bind the batter.

Why do my Pumpkin Blondies turn out cakey instead of chewy?

Overmixing the batter and using too much leavening can create a cakey texture. Also, baking a minute or two longer than necessary dries the bars out. Follow the mixing and baking times closely for the best chewy texture.

Can I add frosting to Pumpkin Blondies?

Definitely! Cream cheese frosting or a simple vanilla glaze pairs wonderfully with these blondies, enhancing the pumpkin flavor and making them extra festive.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about Pumpkin Blondies that make every bite feel like a warm autumn hug. They’re straightforward to make, wonderfully flavorful, and sure to become a new seasonal favorite. So go ahead and bake a batch—you deserve a little sweetness and spice in your life right now!

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