As the autumn breeze carries the scent of fallen leaves and cozy sweaters, I find myself longing for a sweet treat that captures the season’s essence. Enter my Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies—soft, chewy squares that are an absolute must for any fall gathering. With just 15 minutes of prep time, these blondies come together effortlessly, making them perfect for busy home chefs craving a homemade dessert. Packed with warm pumpkin flavor and rich white chocolate chips, they are not just delicious but also a delightful way to embrace the spirit of fall. Whether served alongside a warm cup of tea or as the centerpiece of a potluck, these blondies will surely be a hit. So, ready for a slice of autumn bliss? Let’s dive into this easy recipe!
Why Are These Blondies So Irresistible?
Simplicity: With only 15 minutes of prep, you’ll have these delicious treats in no time!
Warm Fall Flavors: The blend of pumpkin puree and spices creates a soothing, seasonal taste that evokes memories of cozy nights.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, these blondies will impress friends and family alike, leaving them craving more.
Versatile: Customize easily by substituting white chocolate with dark chocolate or adding in your favorite nuts or dried fruits!
Mouthwatering Texture: Soft and chewy, these blondies are like a warm hug—making them perfect for those cooler days.
Want more delightful treats? Check out our fall recipes to explore seasonal favorites!
Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies Ingredients
• Get ready to bake with these essential ingredients!
For the Batter
- Unsalted Butter – Provides rich flavor and creates a tender texture. Melted unsalted butter is preferred for even distribution throughout the batter.
- Light Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and caramel-like sweetness, enhancing the overall taste. Can be substituted with dark brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
- Granulated Sugar – Balances the brown sugar’s richness, helping to create lift. Use coconut sugar for a refined sugar-free option.
- Large Eggs – Act as a binder for the ingredients while contributing moisture and richness. Room temperature eggs mix better into the batter.
- Vanilla Extract – Infuses additional flavor that complements the spices. Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.
- Pumpkin Puree – The main ingredient providing moisture, vibrant color, and earthy sweetness. Do not substitute with pumpkin pie filling, as it contains added sugars and spices.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and body to the blondies while keeping them chewy. For gluten-free, consider using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Baking Soda – Serves as a leavening agent for a slight rise. Ensure it’s fresh for maximum effectiveness.
- Salt – Enhances flavors and balances sweetness. Sea salt can add extra flavor dimension.
- Ground Cinnamon – Offers warm, aromatic flavor that pairs well with pumpkin. Substitute with pumpkin pie spice if preferred.
- Ground Nutmeg – Adds a fragrant depth to the spice profile. A pinch of fresh-grated nutmeg can elevate the dish.
- Ground Ginger – Brings a zesty kick that brightens the flavor. Dried ginger can be swapped for fresh ginger—use more in the recipe.
- Ground Cloves – Infuses a cozy warmth to the batter. Use sparingly, as it can be overpowering.
- White Chocolate Chips – Melt into creamy pockets of sweetness offering contrast to the warm spices. Can be replaced with dark or butterscotch chips.
- Chopped Pecans (optional) – Adds delightful crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing texture. Omit for a nut-free option or swap with walnuts.
These delightful Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies are just waiting to come together in your kitchen!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish by greasing it lightly with butter or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal. This will ensure your Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies come out perfectly shaped and won’t stick.
Step 2: Mix Sugars and Butter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together ½ cup of melted unsalted butter, 1 cup of light brown sugar, and ½ cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. This step creates the rich base for your blondies, infusing them with that warm sweetness that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Flavor
Add 2 large eggs into the sugar and butter mixture, one at a time, whisking thoroughly after each addition to ensure everything is well combined. Then, stir in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract and 1 cup of pumpkin puree until the batter is uniform. You’ll notice that the mixture takes on a beautiful orange hue, embodying the essence of fall.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, ½ teaspoon of ground ginger, and a pinch of ground cloves. This spice blend is crucial to achieving the cozy flavor characteristic of these Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies and will elevate the dessert.
Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet batter, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain that soft and chewy texture that you want from your blondies. You’ll notice the distinct scent of pumpkin and spices filling the air.
Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips and Nuts
Gently fold in 1 cup of white chocolate chips and, if you desire, about ½ cup of chopped pecans. The white chocolate will create sweet pockets within your blondies, while the pecans add a delightful crunch. Ensure they’re evenly distributed, but be gentle to keep the batter fluffy.
Step 7: Spread and Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking.
Step 8: Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let the blondies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This might take about 30 minutes. Once cooled, cut the Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies into 24 squares for serving. This cooling period is vital to avoid crumbling as you slice them.
Expert Tips for Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies
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Measure Accurately: Properly measuring ingredients is key to achieving the perfect texture. Use kitchen scales or measuring cups to avoid missteps.
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Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter until just combined when adding dry ingredients; overmixing can make your blondies tough instead of soft and chewy.
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Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick around the 30-minute mark. A few moist crumbs sticking to it means they’re perfectly baked and not dry.
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Cooling Is Crucial: Let the blondies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing to prevent them from crumbling apart.
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Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment! Swap white chocolate with dark chocolate or add dried cranberries for a delightful twist to your Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies.
Make Ahead Options
These Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy their deliciousness with minimal last-minute effort! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps maintain the blondies’ texture and flavor. To bake, simply remove the batter from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes for easy mixing, and then follow the usual baking instructions. This way, you can have freshly baked treats on hand for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings, making your life just a little sweeter!
How to Store and Freeze Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies
Room Temperature: Store blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their soft and chewy texture.
Fridge: For a longer duration, keep them in the fridge for up to 1 week; just ensure they’re wrapped tightly to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Freeze your Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies for up to 3 months. Slice them before freezing and layer with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, microwave individual squares for 10-15 seconds, or warm in an oven set at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes.
Variations & Substitutions for Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies
Feel free to explore these delightful twists on your Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies for a new take on this beloved recipe!
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Chocolate Swap: Substitute white chocolate chips with dark or milk chocolate chips for a rich flavor contrast. This switch brings a more intense chocolatey taste that enhances the warm spices.
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Fruit Burst: Add dried cranberries or raisins for a pop of tartness and chewiness. The combination of sweet pumpkin and fruity notes creates a joyful explosion in every bite!
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Nutty Delight: Experiment with various nuts like walnuts or almond slices instead of pecans. You can also leave out nuts altogether for a nut-free variation that ensures everyone can enjoy them.
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Spice It Up: Elevate the flavor profile by adding a pinch of cardamom or allspice to your spice mix. These spices bring another layer of aromatic warmth that dances on the palate.
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Texture Variation: For a crunchier bite, fold in a handful of granola or crushed graham crackers. The addition of these ingredients introduces a fun texture that complements the chewy blondies beautifully.
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Maple Sweetness: Replace half of the granulated sugar with maple syrup for a unique sweetness. This swap infuses a lovely maple flavor that aligns perfectly with the fall vibes!
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Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free treat that everyone can enjoy. Just ensure that your baking powder is also gluten-free to maintain the integrity of your dessert.
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Spicy Kick: For those who like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes. This surprising twist adds a warmth that enhances the overall flavor without overwhelming the dessert.
These variations can open doors to new culinary adventures while keeping the spirit of the original Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies alive! Give some of these ideas a try, and let me know what delightful combinations you come up with! And for more seasonal delights, check out our pumpkin-based desserts.
What to Serve With Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies
Looking to create a cozy, memorable meal alongside these autumnal treats? Pairing delightful sides can elevate your experience to new heights.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery goodness of mashed potatoes complements the sweet pumpkin flavor beautifully, making for a comforting duo.
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Apple Cider: A warm glass of spiced apple cider brings a fruity, aromatic balance that echoes the blondies’ fall spices, delighting your palate.
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Spiced Chai Latte: Cozy up with a cup of spiced chai latte; its warming spices will harmonize perfectly with the rich flavors of the blondies.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized bites add a savory crunch that contrasts well with the blondies’ sweetness, creating a balanced plate.
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Whipped Cream Topping: Serve the blondies with a dollop of whipped cream for added creaminess, enhancing each decadent bite with cloud-like delight.
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Salted Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the blondies for an indulgent touch that provides a gooey texture and a pop of flavor.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold creaminess of vanilla ice cream paired with warm blondies is a classic that delivers the ultimate comfort dessert experience.
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Chopped Nuts: A sprinkle of toasted walnuts or pecans can boost the texture and add rich flavors, enhancing the overall enjoyment of your meal.
Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe pumpkins for pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! When choosing a pumpkin for making puree, look for one that feels heavy for its size, has a smooth skin, and is free of blemishes. A good indicator of ripeness is the color; it should be a deep orange. If you see any dark spots or soft areas, steer clear!
How should I store Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies, and how long will they last?
You can keep your blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to extend their life, they can be refrigerated for about 1 week. Just make sure to wrap them well to keep them from drying out.
Can I freeze Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies, and what’s the best way to do it?
Yes, you can freeze them for up to 3 months! To do this, slice the blondies first, then layer them with parchment paper in an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag. This helps prevent them from sticking together. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them at room temperature or warm them up in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that fresh-baked taste.
What can I do if my blondies turn out too dry?
If you find your blondies are dry, it may be due to overbaking or incorrect measurements. To help avoid this in future bakes, make sure to check for doneness around the 30-minute mark—look for a few moist crumbs on the toothpick. If you want to rescue already dry blondies, you can drizzle them with a simple syrup or serve them warm with a scoop of ice cream!
Are these blondies safe for pets, and do they contain common allergens?
While these Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies are a delicious fall treat for humans, they include ingredients like sugar and chocolate that are not safe for pets—particularly dogs. As for allergens, note that they contain eggs, butter, and gluten from the flour. If you’re concerned about allergies, be sure to label these treats or opt for nut-free and gluten-free alternatives.
Can I make substitutions for dietary restrictions?
The more the merrier! If you need to cater to specific dietary preferences, you can easily make substitutions. Use coconut flour or a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free option, swap white chocolate chips for dark chocolate to reduce sugar, or substitute coconut sugar for a refined-sugar-free alternative. These little tweaks will help you enjoy delicious blondies while respecting dietary needs!
These FAQs will set you up for a successful bake of your Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies. Happy baking!
Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies: Soft, Sweet Fall Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by greasing it lightly with butter or lining it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together ½ cup of melted unsalted butter, 1 cup of light brown sugar, and ½ cup of granulated sugar until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
- Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, whisking thoroughly after each addition. Stir in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract and 1 cup of pumpkin puree until the batter is uniform.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, ½ teaspoon of ground ginger, and a pinch of ground cloves.
- Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet batter, stirring gently until just combined.
- Fold in 1 cup of white chocolate chips and, if desired, about ½ cup of chopped pecans.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Let the blondies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack for about 30 minutes before slicing them into 24 squares.
