Pumpkin Blondies

Pumpkin Blondies are a delightful treat that embraces the flavors of fall. These chewy dessert bars combine the richness of brown butter with warm spices, making them perfect for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to festive celebrations. With their soft texture and sweet white chocolate chips, Pumpkin Blondies offer a unique twist on traditional blondies that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of brown butter and pumpkin puree creates a rich taste that warms the soul.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up these delicious blondies.
• Perfect for Sharing: Cut into squares, they are an ideal dessert for parties, potlucks, or just sharing with friends.
• Fall Favorite: The warm spices bring out the essence of autumn, making these blondies a seasonal must-try.
• Customizable: Feel free to add nuts or swap white chocolate chips for dark chocolate for a personal touch.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Pumpkin Blondies, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you need to gather before starting your baking adventure:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×9-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Medium saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Pan: A 9×9-inch pan ensures even baking and helps achieve the desired thickness of the blondies.
• Parchment Paper: Lining the pan with parchment makes it easy to remove the blondies once baked without sticking.
• Mixing Bowls: Having separate bowls allows you to mix dry and wet ingredients thoroughly for better texture.
• Spatula: A spatula helps fold in ingredients gently without overmixing, ensuring your blondies stay chewy.

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.

For the Blondies

• 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

For Topping

• 2 tbsp (25 g) granulated white sugar
• ¼ tsp pumpkin pie spice

How to Make Pumpkin Blondies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.

Step 2: Prepare the Brown Butter

In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Continue to simmer it until it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let cool until still liquid but not hot.

Step 3: Prepare Pumpkin Puree

Spread the canned pumpkin puree on a plate. Using paper towels, press down gently to remove excess moisture until you have about ⅓ cup.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another large bowl, mix together the browned butter, light brown sugar, egg yolks, vanilla extract, and prepared pumpkin puree until smooth.

Step 6: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined.

Step 7: Add White Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the white chocolate chips using a spatula until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 8: Bake

Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan. In a small bowl, combine granulated sugar with pumpkin pie spice. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of your batter.

Bake in preheated oven for about 26–28 minutes or until puffed in center and a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs.

Step 9: Cool & Serve

Allow cooling in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice into squares and enjoy!

These Pumpkin Blondies are sure to become a favorite in your fall dessert repertoire!

How to Serve Pumpkin Blondies

Pumpkin Blondies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a cozy gathering or indulging in an afternoon snack, these chewy dessert bars are sure to please.

With Whipped Cream

• Top each blondie with a dollop of homemade whipped cream for added sweetness and a creamy texture.

À La Mode

• Serve warm pumpkin blondies with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a delicious contrast of temperatures.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of rich caramel sauce over the top enhances the flavors and adds a touch of indulgence.

With Fresh Fruit

• Pairing blondies with fresh apple slices or pear slices provides a refreshing balance to the rich dessert.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Slice blondies into smaller pieces and include them on a dessert platter alongside cookies and brownies for variety.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Blondies

To achieve perfect Pumpkin Blondies, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your blondies turn out chewy and flavorful every time.

• Use Browned Butter: Browning the butter adds a nutty flavor that elevates the overall taste of the blondies.
• Measure Pumpkin Correctly: Make sure to reduce the pumpkin puree properly; excess moisture can affect the texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to maintain that chewy texture—overmixing can make them dense.
• Cool Before Slicing: Allow blondies to cool completely before cutting. This helps them set properly, making slices cleaner.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Blondies

Pumpkin Blondies pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their sweet and spiced flavors. Here are some excellent options:

1. Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea enhance the flavors of pumpkin and create a comforting pairing.
2. Coffee: A cup of freshly brewed coffee balances the sweetness of blondies, making it an ideal afternoon treat.
3. Spiced Apple Cider: Hot spiced apple cider offers autumnal flavors that go hand-in-hand with pumpkin desserts.
4. Cheese Plate: A selection of mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese adds richness that contrasts nicely with the sweetness.
5. Roasted Nuts: Crunchy roasted nuts bring texture and depth, making them great accompaniments alongside your blondies.
6. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a fresh and light side that balances the richness of the blondies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pumpkin Blondies, a few common mistakes can affect your results. Here are some tips to ensure your blondies turn out perfectly.

• Not using enough pumpkin puree: Ensure you measure the pumpkin puree correctly. Reducing it too much can lead to dry blondies.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can make your blondies tough instead of chewy.
• Skipping the parchment paper: Always line your baking pan with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes for easier removal.
• Baking too long: Keep an eye on your blondies as they bake. They should be puffed in the center, and a toothpick should come out with moist crumbs, not clean.
• Not cooling before slicing: Let your blondies cool sufficiently in the pan before slicing. Cutting them too soon can result in crumbly pieces.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Pumpkin Blondies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin Blondies

• For longer storage, freeze blondies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Blondies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place blondies on a baking sheet for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual pieces for about 15-20 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, covered, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Blondies that might help you in your baking journey.

How do I know when my Pumpkin Blondies are done?

Pumpkin Blondies are done when they are puffed in the center and a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs.

Can I use different types of chocolate chips?

Yes! You can substitute white chocolate chips with dark chocolate or even butterscotch chips for a different flavor.

Can I make Pumpkin Blondies gluten-free?

Certainly! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup for best results.

What variations can I try with this recipe?

You can add nuts like pecans or walnuts, or even dried fruits such as cranberries for added texture and flavor.

How long do these Pumpkin Blondies last?

When stored properly, they last up to 5 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months if frozen.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Blondies are a delightful treat that combines chewy texture with warm spices—perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights at home. Feel free to customize them by adding nuts or trying different types of chocolate chips. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how versatile and satisfying these dessert bars can be!