These delightful Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars are an autumn treat that's sure to please. With a moist pumpkin base and rich semisweet chocolate chips, they're the perfect blend of seasonal spices and comforting, chocolaty sweetness.
The majority of the ingredients for this recipe are common pantry items, but you may need to pick up pumpkin puree and spices like nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Ensure to purchase pure pumpkin puree not pumpkin pie filling, which has added sweeteners and spices.
Ingredients for the Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars
Butter: The base for our bars, which adds richness and a creamy texture.
Sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the flavors.
Brown sugar: Provides a deeper, molasses-like sweetness.
Egg: Binds the ingredients together.
Vanilla extract: Gives our bars an extra dimension of flavor.
Pumpkin puree: The star of the show, adds moisture and a distinct autumnal flavor.
Flour: The main dry ingredient that gives structure to our bars.
Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Ginger, Cloves: These spices create a warm, comforting flavor profile.
Baking soda: Helps our bars rise and become light and fluffy.
Salt: Enhances all the other flavors.
Semi sweet chocolate chips: For a rich, chocolatey punch in every bite.
One reader, Hamilton Stauffer says:
These pumpkin chocolate chip bars are a game-changer! The combination of pumpkin and chocolate is simply divine. The bars are moist, flavorful, and the perfect treat for fall. They're a hit with my family and friends, and I can't wait to make them again!
Essential Techniques for Making Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars
Preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and spray an 8x8-inch baking pan with baking spray.
Mixing the batter: Add the butter, sugar, and brown sugar to a stand mixer on medium-high speed for 1 to 2 minutes until light and fluffy. Then, add in the egg, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree until smooth.
Sifting dry ingredients: Sift the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, baking soda, and salt together.
Incorporating dry ingredients: Add the dry ingredients to the stand mixer and mix until just combined on low speed. Then, fold in the chocolate chips.
Baking the bars: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 30 to 35 minutes.
How To Make Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars
These pumpkin chocolate chip bars are soft and moist like cake and flavored like a pumpkin and chocolate cookie. They’re easy & quick to make like brownies.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1cupunsalted butter,softened
- ⅔cupsugar
- ⅓cupbrown sugar,packed
- 1egg,large
- 2tspvanilla extract
- 8ozpumpkin puree
- 2cupsflour
- 2tspcinnamon
- ½tspnutmeg
- ½tspginger
- ¼tspcloves
- 1tspbaking soda
- ½tspsalt
- 2cupssemi sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F and spray an 8×8-inch baking pan with baking spray.
-
Add butter, sugar and brown sugar to a stand mixer on medium-high speed for 1 to 2 minutes until light and fluffy.
-
Add in the egg, vanilla extract and pumpkin puree until smooth.
-
Sift the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, baking soda and salt.
-
Add the dry ingredients to the stand mixer until just combined on low speed then fold in the chocolate chips.
-
Pour the batter into the baking pan and bake for 30 to 35 minutes.
Nutrition
- Calories: 317.61kcal
- Fat: 18.48g
- Saturated Fat: 11.28g
- Trans Fat: 0.47g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 5.26g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.76g
- Carbohydrates: 38.61g
- Fiber: 2.31g
- Sugar: 23.64g
- Protein: 3.16g
- Cholesterol: 40.50mg
- Sodium: 161.23mg
- Calcium: 24.15mg
- Potassium: 139.18mg
- Iron: 1.17mg
- Vitamin A: 211.68µg
- Vitamin C: 0.61mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars
When folding in the chocolate chips into the batter, be sure not to overmix. Overmixing can result in a denser, tougher texture in your pumpkin chocolate chip bars. Instead, gently stir the chocolate chips until they are just distributed throughout the batter. This will ensure your bars have a tender, moist crumb and the chocolate chips are evenly dispersed.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Recipe
Prep ahead: Prepare the dry ingredients the night before and store them in an airtight container. This will save time and make the baking process more efficient.
Use canned pumpkin: Instead of making your own pumpkin puree, use canned pumpkin for convenience and to save time during preparation.
One-bowl method: Utilize a single bowl for mixing the ingredients to minimize cleanup and streamline the baking process.
Room temperature ingredients: Ensure that the butter, egg, and pumpkin puree are at room temperature before starting the recipe to expedite the mixing process.
Chill the dough: After mixing the batter, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to make it easier to handle and cut into bars.
Substitute Ingredients For Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars Recipe
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can provide a similar richness and moisture to the bars, and it also adds a hint of coconut flavor to complement the pumpkin and chocolate.
sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can add a rich, caramel-like sweetness to the bars, and it also complements the flavors of pumpkin and chocolate.
brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a similar caramel-like flavor to brown sugar and can provide a rich sweetness to the bars.
egg - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can act as a binding agent and add moisture to the bars, similar to eggs.
pumpkin puree - Substitute with butternut squash puree: Butternut squash puree has a similar texture and flavor profile to pumpkin puree, making it a suitable substitute in this recipe.
flour - Substitute with almond flour: Almond flour can add a nutty flavor and a slightly denser texture to the bars, which can complement the pumpkin and chocolate.
cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: Pumpkin pie spice contains cinnamon along with other warm spices, providing a convenient substitute for individual spices.
nutmeg - Substitute with allspice: Allspice can provide a warm, slightly peppery flavor similar to nutmeg, making it a suitable substitute in this recipe.
ginger - Substitute with cardamom: Cardamom can add a warm, citrusy flavor to the bars, similar to ginger, and complement the other spices and flavors.
cloves - Substitute with ground mace: Ground mace has a similar warm and slightly spicy flavor to cloves, making it a suitable substitute in this recipe.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Baking powder can help the bars rise and provide a similar leavening effect as baking soda.
semi sweet chocolate chips - Substitute with dark chocolate chips: Dark chocolate chips can provide a richer, slightly less sweet flavor compared to semi-sweet chocolate chips, complementing the pumpkin flavor.
How to Beautifully Present These Fall-Inspired Bars
Elevate the plating: When presenting the pumpkin chocolate chip bars, ensure that the plating is elegant and visually appealing. Use clean lines and minimalistic design to highlight the beauty of the bars.
Incorporate seasonal garnishes: Add a touch of seasonal flair to the presentation by incorporating edible flowers or candied pumpkin seeds as a garnish. This adds a pop of color and texture to the dish.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the pumpkin chocolate chip bars to stand out. This creates a visually striking presentation that draws attention to the dessert.
Artful drizzling: Consider artfully drizzling a chocolate ganache or a caramel sauce on the plate to add a touch of sophistication and decadence to the overall presentation.
Play with height: Experiment with creating varying heights on the plate by stacking the bars or incorporating a quenelle of whipped cream to add dimension to the presentation.
Use elegant serving ware: Select elegant and refined serving ware that complements the aesthetic of the pumpkin chocolate chip bars, such as sleek dessert plates or artisanal platters.
Attention to detail: Pay close attention to the finer details, such as wiping the edges of the plate for a clean presentation and ensuring that each element is meticulously placed.
Balance of colors: Strive for a harmonious balance of colors on the plate, considering the warm tones of the pumpkin and the rich hues of the chocolate, to create a visually appealing composition.
Essential Tools for Making Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars
- Stand mixer: A stand mixer is a kitchen appliance used for mixing, beating, and whipping ingredients. It typically comes with various attachments for different tasks such as mixing dough, whisking eggs, and creaming butter.
- Sifter: A sifter is a handheld or mechanical tool used to aerate and break up clumps in dry ingredients such as flour, cocoa, and spices. It helps to ensure a smooth and uniform texture in the final product.
- Baking pan: A baking pan is a rectangular or square metal or glass pan used for baking and cooking a variety of dishes, including bars, brownies, and cakes. It provides a stable and heat-conductive surface for even baking.
- Spatula: A spatula is a kitchen tool with a broad, flat, and flexible blade. It is used for lifting, flipping, and spreading ingredients, as well as scraping the sides of bowls and pans to ensure all the mixture is incorporated.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Measuring cups and spoons are essential for accurately measuring dry and liquid ingredients. They come in various sizes and are used to ensure precision in baking and cooking recipes.
- Baking spray: Baking spray is a convenient cooking spray specifically designed for baking. It typically contains a blend of oil and flour, which helps to prevent baked goods from sticking to the pan, ensuring easy release after baking.
The Best Methods to Store and Freeze These Bars
- Allow the pumpkin chocolate chip bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting and storing.
- Cut the bars into desired sizes and shapes.
- Place the cut bars in an airtight container, separating each layer with a piece of parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Store the container in a cool, dry place for up to 5 days at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- To freeze the bars, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference.
- Freeze the pumpkin chocolate chip bars for up to 3 months.
- To thaw, remove the desired number of bars from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about an hour or in the refrigerator overnight.
- For a quick thaw, unwrap a frozen bar and microwave it for 10-15 seconds or until softened to your liking.
- Enjoy the thawed pumpkin chocolate chip bars within 2-3 days for the best texture and flavor.
The Best Ways to Reheat Leftover Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars
The best way to reheat leftover pumpkin chocolate chip bars is to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the bars on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and the chocolate chips are melted and gooey. This method will help restore the bars' texture and bring out the flavors of the pumpkin and warm spices.
If you're short on time, you can also reheat the bars in the microwave. Place a single bar on a microwave-safe plate and heat it in 15-second intervals until warm and the chocolate is melted. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the bars to become tough or rubbery.
For a crispy exterior and a soft, warm interior, try reheating the bars in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the bars in the basket, ensuring they aren't touching each other. Heat for 2-3 minutes, or until warmed through and the edges are slightly crispy.
If you want to enjoy your leftover pumpkin chocolate chip bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, try warming them up in a skillet. Melt a small amount of butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat, then add the bars and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until heated through and slightly crispy. Serve immediately with a scoop of ice cream for a decadent treat.
Interesting Trivia About Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars
Pumpkin chocolate chip bars are a delicious and easy-to-make treat that combines the flavors of pumpkin and chocolate. These bars are a perfect dessert for fall gatherings or as a sweet snack.
Is Making Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars at Home Cost-Effective?
This pumpkin chocolate chip bars recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens, and the recipe yields a generous amount. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$15, making it a budget-friendly treat. The combination of pumpkin and chocolate chips creates a delightful flavor profile, and the bars are versatile for various occasions. I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability and delicious outcome.
Are Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars Healthy or Unhealthy?
This pumpkin chocolate chip bars recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:
- The recipe contains a significant amount of butter and sugar, which are high in calories and can contribute to weight gain and other health issues if consumed in excess.
- The use of all-purpose flour means the bars are lacking in fiber and other nutrients that could be provided by healthier flour alternatives.
- Chocolate chips, though delicious, add extra sugar and calories to the recipe.
However, there are some redeeming qualities:
- Pumpkin puree is a good source of vitamin A, which supports eye health and immune function.
- The recipe includes a variety of warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, which can provide some antioxidant benefits.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Reduce the amount of butter and sugar used, or replace some of the butter with a healthier alternative like Greek yogurt or mashed avocado.
- Swap out half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat pastry flour or almond flour to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
- Cut back on the amount of chocolate chips used, or opt for dark chocolate chips, which contain less sugar and more antioxidants than semi-sweet chips.
- Add in some chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, to provide healthy fats and extra texture.
- Experiment with natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey in place of some of the refined sugar.
Editor's Opinion on These Delightful Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars
The combination of pumpkin and chocolate in this recipe creates a delightful blend of flavors. The use of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger adds warmth and depth to the bars. The texture is moist and tender, and the chocolate chips provide bursts of sweetness in every bite. The recipe is simple to follow and yields a delicious treat that is perfect for autumn gatherings or as a sweet indulgence any time of the year.
Enhance Your Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars Recipe:
This recipe is a delightful fusion of pumpkin puree and chocolate chips, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The use of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves infuses warm, aromatic notes, elevating the overall taste. The incorporation of unsalted butter ensures a rich and indulgent base, while the addition of vanilla extract enhances the depth of flavor. The careful combination of these ingredients guarantees a delectable treat that will surely tantalize the taste buds.
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