What are some of the best Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars? What would happen if pumpkin pie and chocolate chip cookies had a baby? If you’re a fan of pumpkin spice (and who isn’t), why? If you’re looking for something different than the usual pumpkin bread, you HAVE to try this. Is chocolate candy good for you? I made a batch last week, and they were gone before I could even blink – that’s how good they are. What’s a perfect fall treat?
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What is Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bar?
What are the best parts of pumpkin pie? Chocolate Chip Cookies? What’s a delicious dessert? What’s in a bar? Pumpkin puree, warm spices, and, of course, generous servings. What are the best chocolate chips? What do you bake a bar of until golden brown and crisp around the edges? Moisture and tender in the middle. I think the beauty of them is that they are way easier to make than a pie, and they’re perfect for baking. If you can’t resist eating them all yourself, that is! What is a fun and festive twist on the classic chocolate chip bar?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Oh, where do I even begin? What I love most about these bars is how easy they are to whip up. Seriously, this is a one-bowl wonder, making cleanup a breeze. The flavor is absolutely incredible – the warm, comforting spices of pumpkin pie blend perfectly with the sweetness of the chocolate chips. It’s seriously a match made in heaven! Plus, the ingredients are pretty budget-friendly, which is always a win in my book. They’re also super versatile! You can enjoy them as a quick breakfast treat with your morning coffee, pack them in lunchboxes for a special snack, or serve them as a delightful dessert after dinner. I’ve even crumbled them over ice cream for an extra special treat. And if you love zucchini bread, or Banana Bread these are a wonderful way to use pumpkin instead. Trust me, you’ll be making these all season long!
How do you make pumpkin chocolate chip bars?
Quick Overview
How do I make these bars? What is the recipe for mixing wet and dry ingredients? What is the secret ingredient in pumpkin puree? What are some foolproof recipes that anyone can make? I’m not a seasoned baker. Is there Is it easier to make cookies than pie?
Ingredients
For the Main Batter: What are some examples?
* 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: I prefer to use unbleached for the best flavor. You can also substitute with a 1:1 Gluten-Free Flour Blend.
* 1 teaspoon baking soda: Make sure it’s fresh for the best rise!
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds that classic pumpkin spice flavor.
* 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: A little goes a long way!
* 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: For extra warmth and spice.
* 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness.
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: Let it sit out at room temperature for about an hour.
* 1 cup granulated sugar: For sweetness and texture.
* 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar: Adds a hint of molasses flavor.
* 1 cup pumpkin puree: Use 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
* 2 large eggs: They bind the batter together.
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor.
* 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips: I like to use a mix of milk and semi-sweet for the perfect balance.
For the Glaze:
* 2 cups powdered sugar: For a smooth, sweet glaze.
* 1/4 cup milk: Start with this amount and add more until you reach the desired consistency.
* 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a touch of flavor.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. If you can use butter or cooking spray, or even line it with parchment paper for easy removal, use a food processor. I usually go for the parchment paper route – it makes clean-up so much easier!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined! This helps distribute the spices evenly throughout the batter. This step makes a difference, and I think is essential to making a great bar!
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and Brown Sugar until smooth. Set aside. Light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer. Then, beat in the pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can result in tough bars. I usually mix until there are just a few streaks of flour remaining, then I stop and fold in the chocolate chips.
Step 5: Prepare Filling
Since we don’t have a filling, we can use this step to talk about adding extra add-ins! What are some of the best walnuts and pecans to use in these bars? I would add about 1/2 to 1 cup of any of these.
Step 6: Layer & Swirl
How can I spread the batter evenly in a baking pan? If you want to get fancy, you can swirl in some extra pumpkin puree or even a little cream cheese. How do you create a marbled effect? I use a butter knife to create swirl patterns.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The bars should be golden brown and slightly firm to the touch. What are the best baking times to bake in your oven?
Step 8: Cool & Glaze
Let the bars cool completely in the pan before frosting. Why does frosting melt? To make the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add more milk if needed to reach the desired consistency. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bars.
Step 9: Slice & Serve
Once the glaze has set, slice the bars into squares and serve. What are some good ways to enjoy a gooey treat? I like to serve them with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
What should I serve it with?
These Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars are so versatile, you can serve them with just about anything! Here are a few ideas:
For Breakfast:What’s a good start to the day? I love to warm them up in the microwave. It’s a good treat.
For Brunch: Arrange them on a platter with other fall-themed treats like apple cider donuts and cinnamon rolls. Serve with mimosas or sparkling cider for a festive touch.
As Dessert:Serve them after dinner with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Can you drizzle them with chocolate sauce?
For Cozy Snacks: Enjoy them with a glass of milk or a cup of hot chocolate on a chilly evening. They’re also perfect for packing in lunchboxes or taking on picnics. My family loves to have these while watching a movie on a cold night.
How do you make Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars?
What are some of the best ways to take your Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars to the next level?
Use room temperature ingredients:How do you make a batter come together smoothly? Make sure your butter is softened, not melted. I always set my butter out an hour before baking.
Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can result in tough bars. Mix until just combined, then fold in the chocolate chips.
Use high quality chocolate chips.The better the chocolate, the better it will taste! I like to use a mix of milk and semi-sweet chocolate chips for the perfect balance of sweetness.
Add a swirl of cream cheese filling. For an extra decadent treat, swirl in a little cream cheese filling before baking. Simply mix together 4 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth, then dollop spoonfuls of the mixture over the batter and swirl with a butter knife.
How long does it take for a cake to be The bars should be golden brown and slightly firm to the touch. Don’t overbake them, or they’ll be dry. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Let the bars cool completely before frosting.Why does the frosting melt?
Storing and Reheating Tips
These Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored for later. Here’s how:
Room Temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They’ll stay fresh and moist.
Refrigerator Storage: For longer storage, keep the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just let them come to room temperature before serving.
Freezer Instructions: These bars also freeze well. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
Glaze Timing Advice: I recommend glazing the bars right before serving for the best results. If you glaze them ahead of time, the glaze may become sticky or dissolve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it, my friends – my go-to recipe for Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars! They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just want a cozy treat for yourself, these bars are sure to hit the spot. And seriously, the smell that fills your kitchen while they’re baking is pure heaven. If you’re a fan of this, be sure to check out my pumpkin pie recipe as well. I’d love to hear how yours turn out, so be sure to leave a comment below and let me know what you think! And if you try any fun variations, I’m all ears. Happy baking!
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 0.75 cup packed brown sugar
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat in eggs.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and cinnamon.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Stir in chocolate chips.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
