Diving into the world of baking this fall? These Nutella Stuffed Pumpkin Blondies are your ticket to dessert heaven. Combining the cozy flavors of pumpkin with the creamy richness of Nutella, these blondies are a must-try for anyone looking to spice up their baking game.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of pumpkin and Nutella creates a perfect balance of flavors that’s both unique and irresistible.
- Using canned pumpkin puree ensures a moist and tender blondie every time, without the hassle of preparing fresh pumpkin.
- The surprise Nutella center adds a gooey, chocolatey twist that elevates the classic pumpkin blondie to new heights.
- This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for various substitutions and additions to suit any taste.
- Perfect for any occasion, from Halloween parties to Thanksgiving dinners, these blondies are sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup Nutella
Equipment Needed
- 8×8 inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. This step ensures your blondies don’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg. This blend of spices will give your blondies that signature fall flavor.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter and 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar until well combined. Add 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/2 cup pumpkin puree, stirring until smooth. The pumpkin puree adds moisture and a beautiful orange hue.
Fold and Layer
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan. Dollop 1/2 cup Nutella over the batter, then cover with the remaining batter. Use a knife to swirl the Nutella slightly for a marbled effect.
Bake to Perfection
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This patience ensures the perfect texture.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra Nutella kick, drizzle some on top of the cooled blondies before serving. If you’re out of pumpkin puree, sweet potato puree makes a great substitute. To make these blondies even more indulgent, add a handful of chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the batter. Remember, the key to perfect blondies is not overbaking them; they should be slightly soft in the center when you take them out of the oven.
Recipe Variations
- Swap Nutella for peanut butter or almond butter for a different flavor profile.
- Add white chocolate chips or pecans to the batter for extra texture.
- For a gluten-free version, use your favorite gluten-free flour blend.
- Make it vegan by substituting the egg with a flax egg and using dairy-free butter.
- Top with a cream cheese frosting for a decadent dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer using fresh pumpkin, you’ll need about 1/2 cup of pureed pumpkin. Just make sure it’s smooth and free of excess moisture to keep the blondies from becoming too wet.
How should I store these blondies?
Store them 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; just thaw at room temperature before serving.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13 inch pan. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as it may need a few extra minutes.
Summary
These Nutella Stuffed Pumpkin Blondies are the perfect fall treat, combining the warmth of pumpkin spices with the creamy delight of Nutella. Easy to make and even easier to love, they’re sure to become a seasonal favorite.
