There’s something special about baking, isn’t there? It’s a way to show love to our family and friends, to bring everyone together over a warm, delicious treat. When the fall season rolls around, I can’t help but think of these Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bars. They are the perfect blend of cozy and sweet, making them a favorite in our home.
As a busy mom, I appreciate recipes that are simple yet rewarding. These bars are quick to whip up, taking only about 35 minutes from start to finish, but they always disappear faster than I can make them! I remember the first time I baked them for my kids; their faces lit up as the sweet aroma filled the house. They’re just as happy devouring them as they are helping me in the kitchen, and that’s what it’s all about.
This recipe has become a staple for our family gatherings and holiday celebrations. The combination of pumpkin and chocolate is simply irresistible, and they’re so versatile—you can serve them as a dessert or a sweet snack during the day. Plus, they make great gifts for neighbors during the holidays!
So, if you’re looking for a delightful treat to share with your loved ones, I highly recommend giving these Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bars a try. I promise they will become a cherished recipe in your home, just like they are in ours!
How to Prepare Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bars
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Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, very soft
- 1/3 cup canola oil or any mild oil
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup white granulated sugar
- 15 oz can pumpkin puree
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin spice mix
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 12 oz milk chocolate morsels
Directions
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 13×9-inch baking dish by greasing it lightly.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, canola oil, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Add the pumpkin puree, egg, vanilla extract, sea salt, pumpkin spice, and baking soda to the bowl. Stir well until everything is evenly incorporated.
Gradually sift in the flour, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Gently fold in the chocolate morsels, reserving about 1/4 cup to sprinkle on top before baking.
Transfer the batter into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the reserved chocolate morsels over the top. Bake in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Let the bars cool in the dish before cutting them into squares. For best results, store them covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate them for a week.
Storing Suggestion
To keep these delicious bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them, where they will stay fresh for up to a week. Just make sure to bring them back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor!
Cooking Tips
If you’re looking to enhance the flavors of these bars, consider adding a handful of chopped nuts or dried fruits to the batter. You can also replace the pumpkin puree with sweet potato puree for a slightly different flavor profile. Experimenting with spices can give your bars a unique twist, so feel free to adjust the amount of pumpkin spice or even add some cinnamon!
Serving Suggestions
These bars are delightful on their own, but they can also be served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a decadent dessert. Consider pairing them with a hot cup of spiced chai or a cold glass of milk for a comforting treat. You might also dust them with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch!
Ingredient Substitutions
If you find yourself without pumpkin puree, you can use applesauce or mashed bananas as a substitute, though the flavor will vary slightly. For those avoiding gluten, consider using a gluten-free flour blend. You can also swap out the chocolate morsels for white chocolate or dark chocolate chips based on your preference.
Seasonal Variations
In the fall, fresh spices like nutmeg or ginger can be added for a more robust flavor. During the winter holidays, adding cranberries or walnuts can give these bars a festive twist. In the summer, try using fresh berries in place of the chocolate for a fruity version!
Allergen Information
This recipe contains common allergens such as wheat (from flour), dairy (from butter), and eggs. For those with gluten allergies, be sure to use gluten-free flour. If you are dairy-free, you can substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative and omit the egg, using flaxseed meal or a commercial egg replacer instead.
FAQ
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If the toothpick has wet batter on it, they need more time in the oven.
Can I freeze these pumpkin bars?
Yes! These bars freeze well. Just make sure to let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months.
What can I use instead of chocolate morsels?
If you’re not a fan of chocolate, consider using dried fruits like raisins or cranberries, or even nuts like pecans or walnuts. You could also leave them out altogether for a simple pumpkin bar.
Can I make these bars vegan?
Yes! To make this recipe vegan, substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal mixed with water or use a store-bought egg replacer. Additionally, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative.
How should I store leftover bars?
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but you can reheat them in the microwave if you prefer them warm.
Can I add frosting to these bars?
Absolutely! A simple cream cheese frosting or a chocolate ganache would pair beautifully with these pumpkin bars. Just let them cool completely before spreading on any frosting.
Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bars
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter very soft
- 1/3 cup canola oil or any mild oil
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup white granulated sugar
- 15 oz pumpkin puree canned
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin spice mix
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 12 oz milk chocolate morsels
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a large bowl, combine the softened butter, oil, both sugars, and pumpkin. Mix until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Incorporate the egg, vanilla extract, salt, pumpkin spice, and baking soda. Stir until evenly mixed.
- Gradually add the flour and continue mixing until everything is combined.
- Fold in the chocolate morsels, saving about 1/4 cup to sprinkle on top.
- Pour the batter into a greased 13x9-inch baking dish and scatter the reserved chocolate morsels on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the bars to cool before cutting. Store them covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
