Irresistible Fudgy Pumpkin Spice Blondies: Your Ultimate Fall Dessert with Chocolate Chips & Pecans

Craving the comforting flavors of pumpkin pie but yearning for a simpler, less intimidating baking project? Look no further! These incredible Pumpkin Spice Blondies are precisely what you need. Imagine the rich, spiced essence of your favorite fall pie, transformed into a fudgy, moist, and utterly delightful bar. Each bite is a symphony of warm pumpkin spice, studded generously with melty chocolate chips and crunchy pecans, making them an instant classic for any autumn occasion. Say goodbye to the stress of flaky pie crusts and cracked surfaces; these blondies deliver pure pumpkin perfection in an effortlessly delicious form.

The Magic of These Easy Pumpkin Blondies with Chocolate Chips and Pecans

These pumpkin spice blondies are more than just a dessert; they’re a celebration of autumn’s quintessential flavors in a convenient, shareable bar form. They taste remarkably like a comforting slice of pumpkin pie, but with the added texture and richness of a classic blondie. Their portable nature makes them absolutely perfect for any fall gathering – from cozy family dinners to festive holiday potlucks. Or, simply enjoy one as a delightful pick-me-up during a busy afternoon, perhaps alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea to help you power through those endless Zoom meetings!

The foundation of these outstanding pumpkin treats is a carefully adapted version of my beloved basic blondie recipe, which has proven its versatility in popular creations like my matcha Oreo blondies and vibrant raspberry blondies. To perfectly complement the natural moisture and sweetness of pumpkin purée, I’ve subtly reduced the butter and sugar content. This thoughtful adjustment results in a texture that’s a touch lighter and even more fudgy than traditional chewy blondies, while still being incredibly rich and satisfying. The slight reduction in fat and sugar ensures that the distinct pumpkin and spice notes truly shine through, creating a balanced flavor profile that is simply super delicious!

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Pumpkin Blondies

Crafting the perfect batch of fudgy pumpkin blondies starts with understanding each ingredient and its role. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why:

• Pumpkin Purée: This is the star of our show, providing the signature flavor and incredible moisture. It’s absolutely crucial to use pure pumpkin purée for this recipe. Carefully check the label to ensure it says “Pure Pumpkin” and not “Pumpkin Pie Filling,” as pie filling contains added sugars and spices that will drastically alter the flavor and consistency of your blondies. Pure pumpkin delivers that wholesome, earthy pumpkin taste we all love.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: A non-negotiable blend for authentic fall flavor! This warm, aromatic mix brings all the cozy vibes to these pumpkin blondies. If you don’t have a pre-made blend on hand, don’t worry! You can easily create your own by combining 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg, ½ teaspoon ground ginger, and a dash (about ¼ teaspoon) of ground clove. This homemade blend will infuse your blondies with that unmistakable autumn aroma.
• Light Brown Sugar: The secret to both moisture and depth of flavor! Light brown sugar hits that perfect sweet spot between the deeper molasses notes and moisture retention of dark brown sugar, and the lighter texture of granulated sugar. It contributes to the blondies’ characteristic chewy, fudgy texture. If you’re out of light brown sugar, a good substitute is a blend of ½ cup (100g) dark brown sugar and ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar, ensuring you retain both moisture and sweetness.
• Egg Yolk: You’ll be using one whole large egg plus an additional egg yolk. The extra egg yolk is a game-changer! It’s rich in fat and protein, which adds an incredible amount of richness, chewiness, and a beautiful golden color to the blondies, enhancing their overall fudgy texture without making them overly cakey.
• Unsalted Butter: The fat component, melted, contributes to the blondies’ tender crumb and decadent mouthfeel. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the salt content precisely. (See notes below for a dairy-free alternative!)
• All-Purpose Flour: The primary dry ingredient, providing structure. For a beautifully balanced blondie, proper measurement of flour is key – spoon and level rather than scooping directly from the bag. (Don’t miss the gluten-free option in the section below!)
• Baking Powder: A leavening agent that gives these blondies a slight lift, ensuring they’re not too dense but still wonderfully fudgy.
• Fine Sea Salt: A pinch of salt is crucial for balancing the sweetness and enhancing all the other flavors, making them pop.
• Vanilla Extract: A classic enhancer, vanilla extract adds a layer of warmth and complexity that beautifully complements the pumpkin and spices. Use a good quality pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.
• Chocolate Chips: I initially designed this recipe using mini chocolate chips, which distribute wonderfully throughout the bars. However, regular chocolate chips or even chopped chocolate chunks work beautifully too! Since the blondies themselves aren’t excessively sweet, I recommend sticking to chocolate with less than 60% cacao to maintain a balanced flavor, unless you’re a true dark chocolate aficionado.
• Pecans: Oh, pecans! Their buttery crunch and slightly nutty flavor are an absolute dream paired with pumpkin and pumpkin pie spice. They add a delightful textural contrast. While you can certainly swap them for walnuts or omit them entirely if nuts aren’t your thing, I wholeheartedly recommend including them for that extra layer of fall indulgence!

Customizing Your Blondies: Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Options

Dietary restrictions shouldn’t stop anyone from enjoying these delightful pumpkin spice blondies! This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, making it accessible to more people.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Absolutely! Transforming these easy pumpkin blondies into a gluten-free treat is surprisingly straightforward. Simply substitute the all-purpose wheat flour with an equal amount of your favorite gluten-free 1:1 all-purpose flour blend. It’s vital to ensure that the blend you choose already includes xanthan gum, as this ingredient is crucial for providing structure and elasticity that gluten typically offers. Without it, your blondies might be crumbly.

One pro tip if you opt for the gluten-free version: after mixing your batter, let it rest for a crucial 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to bake. This resting period is not just a suggestion; it’s essential! It allows the gluten-free flour to properly hydrate, preventing the gritty, sandy texture that can sometimes plague gluten-free baked goods. While your batter rests, you can conveniently preheat your oven, making the waiting time productive.

Can I make them dairy-free?

Yes, indeed! Making these pumpkin blondies dairy-free is just as simple. The primary dairy ingredient in this recipe is butter. To make them dairy-free, use a high-quality vegan butter substitute in place of traditional dairy butter. Many excellent brands of vegan butter are available that perform beautifully in baking. Additionally, remember to use dairy-free chocolate chips to ensure your entire batch is free from dairy. With these simple swaps, you’ll have wonderfully rich and fudgy dairy-free pumpkin blondies that everyone can enjoy!

Step-by-Step Guide to Baking Perfect Pumpkin Spice Blondies

Get ready to fill your kitchen with the irresistible aromas of fall! These pumpkin blondies are incredibly straightforward to make, proving that amazing homemade treats don’t require complicated steps. Follow these simple instructions for fudgy, moist perfection:

1. Preparation is Key: Begin by preheating your oven to 340°F (170°C). Then, prepare an 8-inch square baking pan by greasing it lightly and lining it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides. This parchment “sling” will make it incredibly easy to lift your baked blondies out of the pan for clean cutting. Set it aside.
2. Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend), fine sea salt, baking powder, and pumpkin pie spice. Whisking ensures these dry ingredients are evenly distributed, preventing pockets of unmixed spice or leavener. Set this mixture aside.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, light brown sugar, one whole large egg, one extra egg yolk, pure pumpkin purée, and vanilla extract. Stir these ingredients thoroughly until they are well combined and smooth. The mixture should be beautifully cohesive before moving on to the next step.
4. Bring it All Together: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can develop the gluten in wheat flour, leading to tough blondies. Gently fold in the chopped pecans and chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
5. A Crucial Gluten-Free Step: If you’re using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, this next step is vital! Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let your batter rest for 30 minutes. This resting time allows the gluten-free flour to properly hydrate, ensuring your blondies achieve a soft, smooth, non-gritty texture. You can let your oven continue preheating during this rest period.
6. Bake to Perfection: Pour the prepared batter evenly into your parchment-lined 8-inch square pan. For an extra touch of visual appeal and flavor, sprinkle an additional tablespoon or two of chocolate chips and pecans over the top of the batter before baking. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The blondies are ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. Avoid overbaking, as this can lead to dry blondies.
7. Cool Completely: This step requires patience but is non-negotiable for perfectly fudgy bars! Let the blondies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before attempting to cut them. Cooling allows them to set properly, intensify their flavors, and become perfectly fudgy and easy to slice without crumbling. Once cool, use the parchment overhang to lift them out, place them on a cutting board, and slice into squares.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

Once your Pumpkin Spice Blondies have cooled, they are ready to be devoured! These bars are delightful on their own, but can also be elevated with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra touch of indulgence. They pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, a soothing herbal tea, or a festive mug of apple cider, making them the perfect companion for a chilly autumn evening or a holiday brunch.

To keep your blondies fresh and fudgy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. If you’d like to prepare them ahead of time or save some for later, these blondies freeze wonderfully. Wrap individual bars or the entire slab tightly in plastic wrap, then again in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving for a taste as fresh as the day they were baked.

Troubleshooting Common Blondie Issues

Even the most experienced bakers can run into snags. Here are a few common issues you might encounter with blondies and how to troubleshoot them:

• Blondies are Too Dry or Crumbly: This is often a sign of overbaking. Keep a close eye on your oven; ovens can vary significantly. Start checking for doneness at the lower end of the suggested baking time (25 minutes). A few moist crumbs on the toothpick are perfect; a completely clean toothpick usually means they’re slightly overdone for maximum fudginess.
• Blondies are Too Wet or Undercooked in the Center: If the edges look done but the center is still wobbly, it might need a few more minutes. Ensure your oven temperature is accurate (an oven thermometer can be very helpful). Also, make sure your pumpkin purée isn’t excessively watery. If it seems too thin, you can gently blot it with a paper towel before adding it to the batter.
• Lack of Flavor: If your blondies taste bland, check the freshness of your pumpkin pie spice. Spices lose potency over time. Also, ensure you’re using pure pumpkin purée, not pie filling, which can have an artificial taste. Don’t skip the vanilla extract or the salt, as they enhance all the other flavors.
• Texture is Cakey, Not Fudgy: Overmixing the batter, especially after adding flour, can lead to a more cake-like texture. Mix until just combined. Also, ensuring your butter is melted but not hot, and your sugar is properly dissolved in the wet ingredients, helps achieve that desired fudgy chew.

More Delightful Pumpkin Recipes to Explore

If you’ve fallen in love with these pumpkin spice blondies, you’re in for a treat! Pumpkin is an incredibly versatile ingredient, and I have a treasure trove of other delicious pumpkin-infused recipes waiting for you. Whether you prefer sweet or savory, there’s something here to satisfy every craving and make the most of pumpkin season:

• If you’re still in the mood for another incredible bar dessert, you absolutely must try my Pumpkin Cheesecake Swirl Brownies or my classic Pumpkin Bars! Both options are wonderfully moist, perfectly spiced, and wonderfully easy to prepare, offering different textural experiences while keeping that beloved pumpkin flavor front and center.
• For a tender, moist, and utterly comforting baked good, this Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bread recipe is an absolute winner. It makes for a fantastic snack, breakfast, or dessert, especially when paired with a fresh cup of coffee or a soothing mug of tea.
• Are you, like me, a devoted pumpkin pie lover? I’ve got you covered with both a fantastic recipe for Dairy-Free Pumpkin Pie and an equally impressive one for Vegan Pumpkin Pie. Both recipes promise a deliciously creamy yet perfectly sliceable filling, all nestled in a crisp, delightful crust that will impress even the most discerning pie enthusiasts!
• If your palate is craving something savory, don’t miss out on this rich and creamy Vegan Pumpkin Soup or these unexpectedly delicious Pumpkin Sandwiches! They offer a wonderful balance to all the sweet pumpkin treats and make for hearty, satisfying meals.

With their irresistible fudgy texture, warm pumpkin spice flavor, and delightful mix-ins, these easy pumpkin blondies are set to become a treasured addition to your fall baking repertoire. They offer all the beloved tastes of the season in a simple, satisfying bar that’s perfect for sharing, gifting, or simply enjoying as a well-deserved treat. So go ahead, embrace the cozy flavors of autumn and bake up a batch of these truly magical pumpkin spice blondies today!