As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, nothing feels quite as comforting as these Brown Butter Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Blondies. Picture this: a cozy evening, the smell of warm spices enveloping your kitchen as you mix together nutty brown butter with rich pumpkin puree and melting dark chocolate chips. The moment you take that first bite, a delightful combination of gooey texture and sweet warmth dances on your palate—perfectly embodying the essence of fall.
These blondies are not just a treat; they’re a celebration of the season. Made with simple, non-GMO ingredients, they can easily accommodate gluten-free and vegan diets, ensuring everyone can indulge. Whether you’re serving them at a potluck, enjoying a quiet night in, or seeking an impressive yet easy dessert for guests, these blondies are sure to become a go-to autumn favorite. So, let’s get baking and bring a little bit of that cozy ambiance to your kitchen!
Why are Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Blondies so delightful?
Warm, Cozy Flavor: These blondies bring the essence of fall right to your kitchen, combining rich pumpkin puree and warm spices for a comforting dessert experience.
Gooey Perfection: With a soft, chewy texture and melty dark chocolate chips, each bite is like a warm hug.
Easy to Make: Crafted in just over an hour, they require minimal effort and basic ingredients, making them accessible for bakers of all levels.
Diet-Friendly: Non-GMO, gluten-free, and vegan options ensure that everyone can enjoy this autumn treat without compromise.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for potlucks or cozy gatherings, their delicious flavor and inviting aroma make them a hit with friends and family alike.
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Blondies Ingredients
For the Blondies
• Unsalted Brown Butter – Adds a deep, nutty flavor and a unique richness; you can substitute with regular unsalted butter if desired.
• Light Brown Sugar – Provides moisture and a delightful caramel flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the blondies.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness; feel free to adjust depending on your preferred level of sweetness.
• Large Egg – Binds the ingredients for a chewy texture; ensure it’s at room temperature for best results.
• Pumpkin Puree – Introduces moisture and a distinct pumpkin flavor; Libby’s brand is highly recommended for quality.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances sweetness and adds depth to the flavor profile of these Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Blondies.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and serves as the base; can easily be replaced with a gluten-free blend if needed.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses warm spice notes; consider mixing your own blend from cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger for an extra touch.
• Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent, essential for achieving the right texture and rise.
• Kosher Salt – Balances sweetness, with Diamond Crystal Kosher Salt recommended for consistent results.
• Chocolate Chips (Oat Milk Dark Chocolate) – Adds richness and creaminess; semi-sweet or milk chocolate can be used as alternatives.
• Flaky Sea Salt – A sprinkle adds a finishing touch that enhances flavor when dusted over the top before serving.
How to Make Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Blondies
- Prepare Brown Butter: Melt the unsalted brown butter over medium heat until it turns a golden brown and smells nutty, then cool it slightly before using.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, cream together the brown butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Stir in the egg, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and kosher salt until well-combined.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until everything is fully combined, making sure the dough remains sticky. Carefully fold in the chocolate chips for a rich chocolaty goodness.
- Prepare Pan: Line a square pan with parchment paper and lightly spray it with oil to prevent sticking.
- Chill Dough: Spread the dough evenly in the lined pan, top with extra chocolate chips if desired, and refrigerate for about 15-20 minutes.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s hot and ready for the blondies!
- Bake: Bake the blondies for 30-35 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the blondies to cool in the pan, then lift them out using the parchment paper. Slice into squares and sprinkle with flaky sea salt before indulging!
Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Blondies Variations
Customize these wonderful blondies to suit your taste and dietary needs with these delightful alternatives!
- Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version that everyone can enjoy.
- Vegan Option: Use flaxseed meal and water instead of an egg, and opt for vegan chocolate chips for a fully plant-based treat.
- Nutty Delight: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts for a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with the chewy texture.
- Spice It Up: Boost the warmth by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of maple extract for a sweet and spicy twist.
- Chocolate Swap: Try white chocolate chips or butterscotch chips instead of dark chocolate for a sweet flavor variation that surprises the palate.
- Fruit Fusion: Incorporate dried cranberries or chopped apples for added texture and a burst of fruity flavor in every bite.
- Nut Butter Swirl: Swirl in almond or peanut butter to give your blondies a rich creaminess and nutty kick that is simply irresistible.
- Caramel Drizzle: Top with a homemade or store-bought caramel drizzle for an indulgent finish that elevates your blondies to dessert heaven.
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Blondies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing together the wet and dry ingredients, then chilling the dough in the refrigerator. To maintain their gooey texture, be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply spread the chilled dough in a lined pan, preheat your oven, and bake as directed, ensuring that you enjoy freshly baked blondies with minimal effort and just as delicious results!
What to Serve with Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Blondies?
Elevate your fall gatherings by pairing these delightful blondies with warm, comforting accompaniments that accentuate their rich flavors.
-
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream perfectly complements the warm spices, enhancing the gooey goodness of the blondies.
-
Coffee or Espresso: The smooth bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness, creating a cozy treat ideal for a crisp autumn afternoon.
-
Hot Chocolate: For a delightful twist, enjoy these blondies with a rich cup of hot chocolate topped with whipped cream—perfectly indulgent!
-
Toasted Nuts: Sprinkle some toasted pecans or walnuts on top for a lovely crunch that plays beautifully with the soft texture of the blondies.
-
Caramel Drizzle: A drizzle of warm caramel sauce adds a luscious sweetness, elevating the dessert to new heights of decadence.
-
Apple Cider: Warm apple cider served alongside enhances the seasonal vibe, intertwining with the flavors of your blondies for a truly festive experience.
Pairing these ideas with your Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Blondies brings out their rich flavor while creating a heartwarming atmosphere—perfect for autumn gatherings!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Blondies
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially the egg and butter, are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on baking time; blondies should come out slightly underdone for a gooey texture.
- Cool Completely: Let the blondies cool fully before cutting; this helps achieve clean and neat squares.
- Use Metal Bakeware: For even heat distribution, choose a metal baking pan, which helps the blondies bake evenly.
- Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Adding nuts or different chocolate types can enhance your Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Blondies experience.
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Blondies
Room Temperature: Store blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps them soft and fresh, perfect for snacking!
Fridge: For extended freshness, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Be sure to bring them to room temperature before enjoying for optimal taste.
Freezer: Wrap blondies individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months; simply thaw at room temperature or warm slightly in the microwave before serving.
Reheating: For a warm treat, microwave each blondie for about 10-15 seconds. This brings back that gooey goodness, making your Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Blondies irresistible once again!
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Blondies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best pumpkin for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, look for 100% pure pumpkin puree, ideally from Libby’s brand for quality. Avoid pumpkin filling, which contains added sugars and spices that can alter the taste of your blondies.
What’s the best way to store leftover blondies?
Store your Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Blondies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them soft for up to 5 days. If you want them to last longer, place them in the fridge; they’ll stay fresh for about a week.
Can I freeze these blondies? How should I do that?
Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap each blondie individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or microwave them for about 10-15 seconds for that perfectly gooey texture!
What if my blondies are too dry?
Very! If you find that your blondies are dry, try reducing the baking time by 5 minutes next time. Also, ensure that you’re using fresh ingredients and measuring accurately—too much flour can lead to dry blondies. Always mix only until combined for the best results!
Can my pets eat these blondies?
Not at all! Be cautious, as ingredients like chocolate and excessive sugar can harm pets. It’s best to keep these delicious Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Blondies for human consumption only, ensuring your furry friends stay safe!
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Blondies for Cozy Fall Indulgence
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt the unsalted brown butter over medium heat until golden brown and nutty. Cool slightly.
- Cream together brown butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Stir in egg, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and kosher salt.
- Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture until combined. Fold in chocolate chips.
- Line a square pan with parchment paper and lightly spray with oil.
- Spread dough evenly in lined pan, optionally top with extra chocolate chips, and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until edges are golden brown and a toothpick comes out mostly clean.
- Cool in the pan, lift out using parchment, slice, and sprinkle with flaky sea salt before serving.