These pumpkin chocolate chip bars are a cozy treat that combines the flavors of fall with sweet chocolate. They’re soft, moist, and super easy to make!
I love how these bars make my kitchen smell amazing while they bake. Plus, they’re perfect for sharing—or for sneaking a few bites all by yourself! 🎃🍫
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin puree is super convenient, but you can also use homemade if you have fresh pumpkin. Just roast and puree it until smooth!
Butter: Unsalted butter is best to control the salt levels in your bars. If you’re dairy-free, consider using coconut oil or vegan butter instead.
Brown Sugar: I love using packed brown sugar for its rich flavor. If you’re out, you can substitute it with granulated sugar, but the flavor will be less deep.
Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger add great warmth. You can substitute with pumpkin pie spice if you have it on hand—typically a mix of those spices.
Chocolate Chips: Semisweet chocolate chips bring sweetness, but you can use dark chocolate for a richer taste. Milk chocolate will also work for a sweeter bar.
How Do I Ensure My Pumpkin Bars Turn Out Moist and Delicious?
Getting the perfect moisture in your pumpkin bars is key. Here are some important steps:
- Use the right amount of pumpkin puree—too much can make bars soggy.
- Don’t overmix the batter; mix just until combined for fluffy bars.
- Check doneness at the 25-minute mark. A toothpick should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter!
Letting the bars cool completely will also help them set nicely, making them easier to cut and enjoy. Happy baking!
How to Make Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Batter:
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips (plus extra for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. You’ll want to allow some time for the bars to cool down completely before cutting them. In total, expect around 45 minutes to an hour before they’re ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’s nice and hot when you pop the bars in! Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it so the bars will come out easily.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, melted butter, and packed brown sugar. Whisk these together until everything is smooth and blended. Next, add in the egg and vanilla extract and beat until everything is well mixed.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. This will be your dry mix and will add all those lovely spices to your bars!
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix just until combined—don’t overmix, or your bars might get tough! It should look slightly lumpy, which is perfect.
5. Fold in the Chocolate Chips:
Gently fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. Feel free to add a few extra on top for a delicious appearance!
6. Bake the Bars:
Spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan. Bake in the oven for about 25-30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cool, slice them into squares and enjoy your delightful, moist pumpkin chocolate chip bars!
These bars are the perfect treat for fall, with warm spices and rich chocolate in every bite!
Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh pumpkin, simply roast and puree it until smooth. You’ll need about 1 cup of freshly cooked pumpkin, making sure to strain any excess moisture for the best texture.
Can I Make These Bars Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can easily make these bars gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture!
How Do I Store Leftover Bars?
Store any leftover pumpkin chocolate chip bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for about a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage—just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
What Should I Serve With Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars?
These bars are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a cozy touch, you might serve them with a warm beverage like chai tea or hot cocoa!
