Fudgy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars bring together the warm, spiced flavors of pumpkin with the rich, indulgent taste of chocolate. These bars are incredibly moist and have a soft, fudgy texture that melts in your mouth. The recipe starts with melting butter and infusing it with pumpkin pie spice, which enhances the flavor of the bars. Once the batter is mixed and the chocolate chips are folded in, it’s ready to bake. These bars are perfect for autumn gatherings, potlucks, or simply enjoying as a snack with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
Fudgy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars are a decadent autumn treat that balances the smoothness of pumpkin with the richness of chocolate. The bars are incredibly moist and filled with chocolate chips, making each bite a heavenly experience. This dessert is perfect for any fall occasion, from family dinners to festive gatherings.
INGREDIENTS
- Butter: 1 cup (2 sticks)
- Pumpkin pie spice: 1 tbsp
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup
- Brown sugar: 1 cup, packed
- Canned pumpkin puree: 1 cup
- Vanilla extract: 2 tsp
- Kosher salt: ½ tsp
- Egg: 1 large
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups
- Baking powder: 1 tsp
- Semisweet chocolate chips: 1 cup
- Dark chocolate chips: 1 cup
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Set your oven to a warm 350°F and lovingly grease or line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment.
- Step 2:
- In a saucepan, gently melt the butter over medium heat and blend in the pumpkin pie spice until aromatic.
- Step 3:
- Away from the heat, incorporate the sugars, then the velvety pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, salt, and a freshly cracked egg.
- Step 4:
- Gradually mix in flour and baking powder until the dough is of a satiny consistency.
- Step 5:
- Gently pour this luscious batter into the awaiting pan and lovingly fold in the chocolate chips.
- Step 6:
- Allow it to bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted comes out devoid of raw batter.
- Step 7:
- Let it rest and cool; slice and indulge in this autumnal delight!
Serving and Storage Tips
- Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For a firmer texture, refrigerate them.
- These bars pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa for a cozy treat.
Helpful Notes
- For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking to balance the sweetness.
- You can mix in white chocolate chips or nuts to add variety to the recipe.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Let the butter and pumpkin mixture cool slightly before adding the egg to prevent curdling.
The Perfect Fudgy Pumpkin Bars for Autumn
These Fudgy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars are the perfect way to celebrate the flavors of fall. With a blend of spices and rich chocolate, these bars are moist, sweet, and satisfying. Their easy preparation makes them a favorite for those who want a quick and delicious dessert without too much fuss.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, but make sure to drain any excess water from fresh pumpkin puree to avoid a soggy texture.
How do I know when the bars are done?
The bars are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, without raw batter.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix. Adjust the baking time as needed.
Why are my bars too dense?
Overmixing the batter can lead to dense bars. Mix just until combined for the best results.
Summary
Fudgy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars are the ultimate autumn dessert, combining the smooth, rich taste of chocolate with the warm, spiced flavors of pumpkin. These bars have a dense, fudgy texture thanks to the combination of butter, sugars, and pumpkin puree. The batter is lightly spiced with pumpkin pie seasoning, then mixed with semisweet and dark chocolate chips, ensuring a chocolatey bite in every piece. Perfectly baked to a golden brown, these bars are easy to slice and serve, making them ideal for fall events, parties, or as a comforting dessert at home. Their deep, moist texture and sweet, spiced aroma will have everyone reaching for seconds.