Name: Decadent Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies You’ll Crave All Fall
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (melted); 1 cup light brown sugar (packed); 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup pumpkin puree; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves; 1 cup white chocolate chips; 3/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)

As the leaves start to turn and the crisp air beckons pumpkin lovers, my kitchen becomes a haven of warmth and spice. That’s when I whip up a batch of Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies, a delightful twist on traditional dessert that captures the essence of fall. With just 15 minutes of prep time, these blondies are not only an effortless crowd-pleaser but also a fantastic way to use pumpkin puree in a uniquely delicious way. The combination of sweet white chocolate chips and a blend of aromatic spices creates a comforting treat that your family will reach for time and time again. Who can resist the joyful aroma wafting through your home as they bake? Ready to indulge your senses and elevate your dessert game? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!

Why are these Pumpkin Blondies a Must-Try?

Delightful flavors: These Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies are a fusion of warm spices and creamy white chocolate, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.

Easy to make: With just 15 minutes of prep, even novice bakers can whip up this delicious treat without stress.

Perfectly moist: The addition of pumpkin puree ensures every bite is delightfully moist and full of flavor, perfect for cozy gatherings.

Versatile crowd-pleaser: Whether served at a fall gathering or as an everyday snack, they’re sure to impress friends and family alike.

Healthy twist: Opt to leave out the white chocolate or substitute with dark chocolate for a slightly healthier option without skimping on taste!

Comforting aroma: As they bake, your kitchen will fill with the irresistible scent of autumn, inviting everyone to indulge in a slice (or two)!

Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies Ingredients

• Discover the key components behind these delightful blondies!

For the Batter

Unsalted butter – adds richness and moisture to the blondies.
Light brown sugar – provides deep caramel notes for a richer flavor.
Granulated sugar – balances sweetness, keeping the texture light.
Large eggs – act as a binder for the ingredients and support leavening.
Vanilla extract – enhances the overall flavor with a sweet aroma.
Pumpkin puree – the star of the show, giving these blondies their signature flavor.

For the Dry Mix

All-purpose flour – forms the base for their delicious, chewy texture.
Baking soda – helps the blondies rise for a light, fluffy consistency.
Salt – enhances the sweet and spicy flavors present in the blondies.
Ground cinnamon – infuses warmth and sweetness, embodying fall flavors.
Ground nutmeg – adds a hint of nuttiness that complements the spices.
Ground ginger – introduces a zesty kick that brightens the profile.
Ground cloves – brings in depth and an intriguing aromatic quality.

For the Add-Ins

White chocolate chips – provide creamy sweetness that contrasts the spices beautifully.
Chopped pecans (optional) – add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor for extra texture.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by greasing it with butter or lining it with parchment paper. This step ensures your Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies won’t stick once they’re baked, making the process smoother and cleaner.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of melted unsalted butter, 1 cup of packed light brown sugar, and ½ cup of granulated sugar. Using a whisk, mix until the ingredients are smooth and well incorporated. This creamy mixture will serve as a luscious base for your blondies, adding both flavor and moisture.

Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs and Pumpkin
Next, add 2 large eggs to the sugar-butter mixture, one at a time, whisking thoroughly after each addition. Once fully blended, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 cup of pumpkin puree. The batter should now be irresistibly smooth and fragrant, with the pumpkin adding a lovely warmth.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, ¼ teaspoon of ground ginger, and ¼ teaspoon of ground cloves. This mix of dry ingredients will add structure and flavor to your Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies.

Step 5: Merge Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually pour the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the batter should be thick and slightly lumpy, ensuring your blondies remain tender and chewy once baked.

Step 6: Fold in the Extras
Now it’s time to make your blondies extra special. Gently fold in 1 cup of white chocolate chips and, if desired, ¾ cup of chopped pecans. These delightful add-ins will create a wonderful texture contrast in your Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies, adding sweetness and crunch.

Step 7: Spread in the Baking Dish
Pour the luscious batter into your prepared baking dish, using a spatula to spread it evenly. This is where the magic begins, as you create the foundation for your delicious blondies. Make sure the batter reaches the edges for even baking.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking, ensuring they remain perfectly moist and chewy.

Step 9: Cool Before Slicing
Once baked, remove the blondies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This cooling stage allows the flavors to meld and the texture to settle, making it easier to cut your Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies into delightful squares.

Tips for the Best Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies

Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh pumpkin puree for the best flavor and texture. Avoid canned versions that may contain additives.
Don’t Overmix: Gently combine your wet and dry ingredients to prevent dense blondies. A few lumps are perfectly fine!
Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on your blondies as they bake. Remove them from the oven once a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs to ensure they stay soft and chewy.
Cooling is Key: Allow the blondies to cool completely before slicing. This helps them set and makes for cleaner, more appealing squares.
Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to swap out the white chocolate chips or pecans for your favorite mix-ins, such as dried cranberries or walnuts, to customize your Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies!

Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies Variations

Feel free to tailor these blondies to match your taste buds, and let your creativity shine!

Dairy-Free: Substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine. This simple swap doesn't compromise on that delicious texture.
Nut-Free: Omit the pecans altogether or replace them with sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch that will keep your blondies safe for nut allergies.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour for a gluten-free adaptation that keeps the moistness intact.
Pumpkin Spice Boost: Add an extra teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice to the dry ingredients for a more intense fall flavor that will envelop your kitchen in warmth.
Chocolate Swirl: For chocolate lovers, swirl in a few tablespoons of melted dark chocolate before baking, creating a lovely marbled effect.
Salted Caramel Delight: Drizzle pre-made salted caramel over the blondies right after they come out of the oven for an indulgent twist, adding a sweet and salty contrast.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the spice mix for a surprising heat that elevates the warm flavor profile.
Cranberry Addition: Fold in some dried cranberries for a burst of tartness that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the blondies. It's a great way to balance the flavors and add a pop of color!

How to Store and Freeze Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies

Room Temperature: Keep the blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.

Fridge: If you want them to last a bit longer, store the blondies in the fridge, where they can stay fresh for up to a week. Just be sure to wrap them securely!

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the blondies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating: To warm them up, microwave individual squares for about 10-15 seconds. Enjoy the comforting aroma of freshly baked Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies!

Make Ahead Options

These Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance, simply cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it. This not only saves time on busy days but also allows the flavors to deepen overnight. You can also pre-measure and mix the dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, salt, and spices) up to 3 days ahead and store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, just combine the prepped ingredients with the wet mixture, fold in the chocolate chips and pecans, and bake as directed. This way, you'll have freshly baked blondies with minimal effort, bringing comfort and joy to your home!

What to Serve with Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies

As the delightful aroma of these blondies fills your kitchen, think about pairing them with complementary flavors for a perfect fall-inspired dessert spread.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over warm blondies, enhancing their spiced flavors with cool, sweet contrast.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce adds an irresistible layer of sweetness, making each bite feel indulgent and comforting.
Coffee or Espresso: The rich bitterness of coffee pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the blondies, creating a delightful balance that coffee lovers will adore.
Chai Tea: Sip a cup of spiced chai alongside your blondies, as the aromatic spices in both will amplify the cozy fall vibes.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds lightness and a touch of sweetness, elevating the dessert to an elegant level.
Pecan Pie Bars: For a mixed dessert platter, include pecan pie bars to bring in a delightful crunch and rich, nutty flavor that complements the blondies.
Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider serves as a festive drink option, perfectly matching the autumn-inspired flavors of your blondies.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Celebrate the season with a homemade pumpkin spice latte, whose spices and creaminess go hand in hand with the pumpkin blondies.
Dark Chocolate Ganache: For those who enjoy a deeper chocolate flavor, a drizzle of silky dark chocolate ganache brings a sophisticated twist to the sweet dessert.

Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! When choosing pumpkin puree, I recommend using 100% pure pumpkin without any added sugar or spices. Look for brands that use organic pumpkins for a fresher taste. If you're using fresh pumpkin, opt for smaller, sweeter varieties like Sugar Pie or Autumn Gold, which provide the best flavor for baking.

How should I store the Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies?
To keep your blondies fresh, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their life, refrigerate them where they’ll stay good for about a week. Just make sure they're wrapped tightly to prevent them from drying out!

Can I freeze Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze these blondies! To do this, first allow them to cool completely. Then, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours before serving.

What’s the best way to reheat them?
To warm your blondies, heat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This quick method gives you that freshly-baked aroma and softness. If you prefer, you can also place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warm.

Can anyone with nut allergies enjoy these blondies?
If you're accommodating someone with nut allergies, you can easily leave out the chopped pecans or substitute them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for some added texture. Just be mindful about checking the labels of your chocolate chips, as they sometimes contain traces of nuts.

What should I do if my blondies are too dense?
Very good question! If your Spiced Baked Pumpkin Blondies turn out too dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter when combining wet and dry ingredients. Always mix gently until just combined and be sure to measure your flour accurately! If you did overmix, consider serving your blondies warm as a gooey dessert option with ice cream on top. Enjoy!