Get ready to fall in love with these pumpkin chocolate chip bars. Great for any occasion, these bars combine the warmth of pumpkin with the sweetness of chocolate chips for a treat that’s hard to resist.
Why This Recipe Works
- The perfect balance of pumpkin and chocolate ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
- Using canned pumpkin puree makes this recipe quick and easy without sacrificing taste.
- The addition of cinnamon and nutmeg enhances the pumpkin flavor, making these bars a cozy treat.
- Chocolate chips add a delightful texture and sweetness that complements the pumpkin perfectly.
- These bars are as easy to make as they are delicious, requiring just a few simple steps.
Ingredients
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Equipment Needed
- 8×8 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing an 8×8 inch baking pan. This ensures your bars won’t stick and bake evenly. Tip: Lining the pan with parchment paper makes removal even easier.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth. This mixture is the base of your bars, so make sure it’s well combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough bars, so stop when you no longer see flour streaks.
Add Chocolate Chips
Fold in the chocolate chips gently. This ensures they’re evenly distributed without overworking the batter. Tip: Reserve a few chocolate chips to sprinkle on top before baking for a prettier finish.
Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bars cool in the pan before cutting into squares.
Tips and Tricks
For the best pumpkin chocolate chip bars, consider these tips: Always use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, as the latter contains added sugars and spices. If you’re out of chocolate chips, chopped chocolate bars work just as well. For a healthier version, you can substitute half the oil with applesauce. Don’t skip the step of letting the bars cool; this allows them to set properly for clean cuts. Experiment with adding nuts or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor.
Recipe Variations
- Swap chocolate chips for white chocolate or butterscotch chips for a different flavor profile.
- Add a cream cheese swirl by mixing 4 oz softened cream cheese with 1/4 cup sugar and 1 egg yolk, then swirling it into the batter before baking.
- For a gluten-free version, use your favorite gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
- Incorporate 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
- Make it vegan by using a flax egg and dairy-free chocolate chips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree, but make sure it’s thick and not watery. Canned pumpkin is more consistent in texture and moisture, which is why it’s recommended for this recipe.
How should I store these bars?
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Just double all the ingredients and bake in a 9×13 inch pan. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly, so keep an eye on them.
Summary
These pumpkin chocolate chip bars are a deliciously easy treat that combines the best of pumpkin and chocolate. Perfect for any fall gathering or just because, they’re sure to be a hit.
