Pumpkin Blondies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall. These chewy dessert bars combine the warmth of pumpkin and spices with the sweetness of white chocolate, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or simply craving something sweet, these blondies will impress everyone. Their rich brown butter flavor and soft texture set them apart from standard blondies, ensuring they are a standout addition to your dessert repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and warm spices creates a comforting flavor profile that screams autumn.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up these delicious bars without hassle.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve them warm with ice cream or enjoy them as a simple afternoon snack with coffee or tea.
- Perfect for Sharing: Cut into squares, these blondies are ideal for parties, potlucks, or just sharing with friends and family.
- Chewy Texture: The unique blend of ingredients gives these bars a chewy yet tender texture that’s hard to resist.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into baking your Pumpkin Blondies, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and make it more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×9-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowls (large and medium)
- Whisk
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×9-inch baking pan: This size ensures even cooking and makes it easy to cut the blondies into squares.
- Parchment paper: Lining the pan with parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.
- Medium saucepan: Perfect for browning butter, which adds depth to the flavor.
- Spatula: Essential for folding in ingredients gently without deflating your batter.
Ingredients
Pumpkin Blondies are chewy, buttery dessert bars packed with warm spices, white chocolate chips, and rich brown butter flavor—perfect for cozy fall baking.
- 1¼ cups (280 g) unsalted butter
- ¾ cup (183 g) canned pumpkin puree, reduced to ⅓ cup
- 2½ cups + 2 tbsp (329 g) all-purpose flour
- 1½ tbsp pumpkin pie spice
- ¾ tsp baking soda
- ¾ tsp baking powder
- ¾ tsp salt
- 1½ cups (330 g) light brown sugar
- 3 egg yolks
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) vanilla extract
- ½ cup (100 g) white chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp (25 g) granulated white sugar
- ¼ tsp pumpkin pie spice (for topping)
How to Make Pumpkin Blondies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Brown the Butter
In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Allow it to simmer until it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma. Once browned, let it cool until it’s still liquid but not hot.
Step 3: Prepare the Pumpkin Puree
Spread the canned pumpkin puree on a plate. Use paper towels to press down on it gently, removing excess moisture until you have approximately ⅓ cup.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until combined.
Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the browned butter, light brown sugar, egg yolks, vanilla extract, and dried pumpkin until smooth.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
Step 7: Fold in White Chocolate Chips
Using a spatula, gently fold in the white chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 8: Spread Batter in Pan
Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the surface.
Step 9: Add Topping Mix
In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar and additional pumpkin pie spice. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of your batter.
Step 10: Bake
Bake your blondies in the preheated oven for about 26–28 minutes. They should be puffed in the center when done. A toothpick inserted should come out with moist crumbs.
Step 11: Cool and Slice
Let them cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely before slicing into 16 squares for serving. Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Blondies!
How to Serve Pumpkin Blondies
Pumpkin Blondies are a delightful treat that pairs perfectly with various accompaniments. Whether you enjoy them plain or dressed up, these chewy dessert bars can be served in many delicious ways.
With Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream complements the warm spices in pumpkin blondies.
- Cinnamon Ice Cream: For an extra fall twist, serve with cinnamon ice cream to enhance the flavors.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- Warm Caramel Drizzle: A warm caramel sauce adds a sweet and gooey finish to each bar.
- Salted Caramel: A sprinkle of sea salt on top of caramel elevates the taste profile and balances sweetness.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Homemade Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream provides a nice contrast to the dense blondies.
- Spiced Whipped Cream: Adding a pinch of pumpkin pie spice to your whipped cream introduces more warmth and flavor.
Paired with Coffee
- Brewed Coffee: Enjoying pumpkin blondies with hot coffee enhances the cozy experience.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: For a seasonal treat, pair them with a pumpkin spice latte for double the pumpkin goodness.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Blondies
To achieve the ultimate pumpkin blondies, follow these helpful tips for the best results every time.
- Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: Fresh puree brings out richer flavors compared to canned versions.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can lead to tough blondies. Mix just until combined.
- Check for Doneness Early: Start checking at 25 minutes; you want moist crumbs, not dry blondies.
- Cool Completely Before Cutting: Allowing them to cool helps maintain their shape when slicing.
- Store Properly: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days for optimal freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Blondies
Pumpkin Blondies make an excellent dessert on their own, but pairing them with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Consider these options for a delicious combination.
- Apple Crisp: A warm apple crisp adds a fruity, tart contrast that works wonderfully alongside pumpkin flavors.
- Pecan Pie: The nutty richness of pecan pie brings additional texture and flavor variety to your dessert table.
- Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites provide a creamy element that balances the dense nature of blondies.
- Chocolate Mousse: Light and airy chocolate mousse creates an indulgent combination when served together.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad offers a light, healthy option that pairs well with sweet blondies.
- Hot Cocoa: Pairing pumpkin blondies with hot cocoa makes for a comforting dessert experience perfect for chilly evenings.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Pumpkin Blondies can be simple, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
- Using too much pumpkin puree: Overloading on pumpkin can make the blondies too wet. Measure accurately and ensure you reduce it to ⅓ cup before adding it to the mix.
- Not browning the butter enough: If the butter isn’t browned properly, you miss out on the nutty flavor that makes these blondies delicious. Cook it until it’s golden and has a nutty aroma.
- Skipping the parchment paper: Without lining your pan, your blondies may stick and break apart when you try to remove them. Always line with parchment for easy removal.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to tough blondies. Mix just until combined for a chewy texture; a few lumps are okay!
- Ignoring baking times: Every oven is different, so start checking at the minimum baking time. Remove them once they are puffed and a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Place a piece of parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.
Freezing Pumpkin Blondies
- Wrap each blondie individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Pumpkin Blondies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat one blondie at a time for about 15-20 seconds, watching closely not to overheat.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat with a lid for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree! Just make sure it’s well-drained and has similar consistency to canned pumpkin.
How do I know when my Pumpkin Blondies are done?
Your Pumpkin Blondies are done when they are puffed in the center and a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out with moist crumbs.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Absolutely! Feel free to add walnuts or pecans for extra crunch. Just keep in mind that it may change the texture slightly.
What are some great toppings for Pumpkin Blondies?
Consider topping your blondies with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added flavor!
How do I store leftover Pumpkin Blondies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Final Thoughts
Pumpkin Blondies combine warm spices and rich flavors, making them an ideal treat for fall gatherings or cozy nights at home. With options for customization, such as adding nuts or chocolate chips, this recipe is versatile enough to please everyone. Don’t hesitate—try making these delightful bars today!
Pumpkin Blondies
Pumpkin Blondies are the quintessential fall treat, blending the rich flavors of pumpkin, warm spices, and creamy white chocolate into chewy, buttery bars. Ideal for cozy gatherings or a sweet afternoon snack, these blondies showcase a delightful balance of sweetness and spice that will leave everyone wanting more. The addition of brown butter elevates their flavor profile, making them stand out from traditional blondies. With straightforward preparation steps, even novice bakers can whip up this delicious dessert with ease. Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or enjoyed with a cup of coffee, these Pumpkin Blondies are sure to become a seasonal favorite.
- Total Time: 48 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 16 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1¼ cups unsalted butter
- ¾ cup canned pumpkin puree (reduced to ⅓ cup)
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ tbsp pumpkin pie spice
- ¾ tsp baking soda
- ¾ tsp baking powder
- ¾ tsp salt
- 1½ cups light brown sugar
- 3 egg yolks
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup white chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until browned and nutty in aroma; let cool slightly.
- Press excess moisture from the pumpkin puree until you have about ⅓ cup.
- Whisk together flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
- In a large bowl, mix browned butter with brown sugar, egg yolks, vanilla extract, and pumpkin until smooth.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined; fold in white chocolate chips.
- Spread batter evenly in the prepared pan; sprinkle with granulated sugar and extra pumpkin pie spice.
- Bake for 26–28 minutes until puffed; check for moist crumbs with a toothpick.
- Cool for about 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack; allow to cool completely before slicing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 28 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: Use fresh pumpkin puree for richer flavor. Avoid overmixing to maintain chewiness. Check for doneness early to prevent dryness.
