Save When autumn rolls around and I am craving something cozy with a touch of chocolate, these Chocolate Pumpkin Chip Blondies hit the spot every time. They channel all the best qualities of fall baking with their soft, chewy crumb and bursts of melty chocolate. The pumpkin not only gives brilliant color and moisture but pairs perfectly with warm spices, making each bite taste like a treat by a fireside.
My neighbors request these every October ever since I brought a batch to a harvest party. There was not a crumb left on the plate and now it is tradition.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: brings structure for the perfect chew Use unbleached for best results
- Ground cinnamon and nutmeg: give a classic warmth Seek out fresh spices for the most fragrant bars
- Ground ginger and cloves: add depth and subtle heat Try grinding them fresh if you can
- Baking soda: ensures the blondies rise just enough Be sure it is within date so the bars turn out light
- Salt: boosts all the other flavors Kosher salt is my go-to for more consistent seasoning
- Unsalted butter: delivers a rich flavor and the right fudgy texture Choose high quality for best results and melt gently so it is not hot
- Light brown sugar: gives caramel-like sweetness and irresistible chew Always pack it down in your measuring cup
- Granulated sugar: adds balance and helps with the blondies’ tender crumb Use organic if you prefer a purer taste
- Large egg: binds everything together Opt for room temperature for easier mixing
- Pure vanilla extract: rounds out the spices and chocolate Choose real extract for flavor you can smell throughout the house
- Canned pure pumpkin puree: brings a supple moist crumb Look for brands with just pumpkin and no added sugar or spices
- Semisweet chocolate chips: melt through every bite Add more or less to suit your sweet tooth
- Quality chocolate: Pick quality chocolate for the best gooey pockets
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:
- Line a 9x9 inch pan with parchment paper leaving extra hanging over the sides so the bars lift out easily after baking This step also prevents sticking
- Combine Your Dry Ingredients:
- Whisk flour cinnamon nutmeg ginger cloves baking soda and salt in a medium bowl Thorough mixing means the spices distribute evenly and you avoid any clumps in your finished blondies
- Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl whisk together the melted butter brown sugar and granulated sugar until the mixture looks smooth and glossy This helps dissolve the sugar and sets the stage for a chewy texture
- Add Egg and Vanilla:
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the sugar and butter mixture Whisk well until everything is totally blended for an even crumb
- Incorporate the Pumpkin Puree:
- Stir the pumpkin puree into the wet ingredients Fold gently until you no longer see streaks This step gives the batter its beautiful color and soft bite
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture Use a spatula to fold together until just combined A few streaks of flour are fine Be careful not to overmix to keep your blondies tender
- Stir in Chocolate Chips:
- Pour in the chocolate chips and fold them evenly throughout Every bite should have a nice spot of chocolate
- Spread Batter in the Pan:
- Scrape the batter into your prepared pan and use your spatula to smooth the top Drop the pan gently on the counter a few times to remove air pockets
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place in the center of your oven and bake for about 28 to 32 minutes A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with just a few moist crumbs not wet batter For gooier blondies err on the shorter side
- Cool and Cut:
- Let the pan cool completely on a rack before removing the blondies Use the parchment overhang to lift them out for clean cutting Slice into 12 equal squares
Save Pumpkin puree is my favorite ingredient because it gives so much richness without heaviness Plus I will always remember the first time my kids licked the bowl clean on a chilly afternoon while the scent of cinnamon drifted through our kitchen
Storage Tips
Store cooled blondies in an airtight container at room temperature up to four days They stay tender and chewy but you can pop them in the microwave for ten seconds to refresh them before serving If you want to keep them longer refrigerate for up to one week or freeze well wrapped for up to three months Thaw at room temperature before eating
Ingredient Swaps and Twists
If you are out of semisweet chocolate try bittersweet milk chocolate or even chunks of your favorite bar For a sweeter treat use white chocolate chips If you love texture fold in half a cup of chopped walnuts or pecans right along with the chocolate Feel free to use homemade pumpkin puree if you have extra from roasting squash
Serving Ideas
These blondies are perfect as is but a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream on warm bars takes them over the top They also pair beautifully with strong coffee or a spicy chai latte For parties I cut them into smaller squares and drizzle with extra melted chocolate for presentation
Blondies in Fall Baking Traditions
Pumpkin treats have always marked the heart of fall baking for me From pies to muffins this version is special because it blends the nostalgic comfort of a blondie with the seasonal flavor of pumpkin My family adores them for Halloween gatherings but they are just as welcome at Thanksgiving potlucks or a casual autumn movie night
Save Try these blondies warm for a truly cozy autumn treat Share them with friends and watch every square disappear quickly.
Cooking Questions
- → How do I know when blondies are baked through?
Check with a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not raw batter.
- → Can I substitute white chocolate chips?
Yes, white chocolate chips add a sweeter touch and pair well with pumpkin and spices.
- → How should I store these blondies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days to retain freshness.
- → Can I add nuts for extra crunch?
Absolutely! Try folding in chopped pecans or walnuts to add flavor and texture.
- → Are these blondies suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, these pumpkin blondies contain no meat and are vegetarian-friendly.
- → What’s the best way to serve these?
Enjoy them on their own, or serve warm with vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.