Best Pumpkin Blondies Recipe: Your New Favorite Fall Dessert!

Pumpkin Blondies Recipe: As autumn leaves paint the landscape in hues of gold and crimson, there’s a particular warmth that only seasonal baking can bring. I am thrilled to share with you a dessert that perfectly encapsulates this feeling: a truly irresistible treat that combines the classic chewiness of a blondie with the comforting spices of fall.

Historically, blondies emerged as a lighter, butterscotch-flavored cousin to the rich chocolate brownie, gaining popularity for their delightful chewiness and versatility. While the traditional blondie is a stand-alone star, the addition of pumpkin elevates it into something truly special for the colder months. It’s a twist that celebrates the harvest season, bringing a touch of home and nostalgia to every bite, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to infuse their baking with autumnal charm.

Why We Love This Pumpkin Blondies Recipe

Beyond their incredibly appealing autumn aesthetic, it’s the magical combination of flavors and textures that truly captivates. Imagine a dense, fudgy, and delightfully chewy base, infused with the gentle sweetness of pumpkin purée and a harmonious blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. These blondies are not overly sweet, allowing the warm spices to truly shine, creating a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a delightful snack, a crowd-pleasing dessert for your next gathering, or simply a cozy treat to enjoy with a cup of tea, this Pumpkin Blondies Recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite. Their ease of preparation and universal appeal make them an ideal choice for bakers of all skill levels, promising a delicious reward that’s hard to resist.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

Before we dive into creating these delightful Pumpkin Blondies, let’s gather all our ingredients. Having everything measured out and ready to go (what chefs call “mise en place”) makes the baking process so much smoother and more enjoyable. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself for taking these few extra minutes.

For the Pumpkin Blondies:

• 1 cup (2 sticks or 226g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 ½ cups (300g) packed light brown sugar
• ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240g) pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling!)
• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 ½ cups (255g) white chocolate chips, dark chocolate chips, or a mix (or chopped pecans/walnuts if you prefer a nutty texture)

For the Optional Cream Cheese Glaze (Highly Recommended!):

• 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup (56g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2-3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream

Preparing for Baking

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Your Pan: First things first, let’s get that oven ready! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, choose a 9×13 inch baking pan. I like to line mine with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the longer sides. This creates a convenient “sling” that makes it incredibly easy to lift the blondies out of the pan once they’re baked and cooled, ensuring clean cuts and a beautiful presentation. If you don’t have parchment paper, you can certainly grease and flour the pan thoroughly, or use a non-stick cooking spray. Just make sure every nook and cranny is coated to prevent sticking! This careful preparation is key to ensuring your Pumpkin Blondies Recipe yields perfectly baked and easily removable treats.
2. Measure and Sift Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together your all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, and ground cloves. I always recommend whisking them really well to ensure that the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour. This prevents pockets of unmixed baking powder and ensures every bite of your pumpkin blondie is perfectly spiced and rises uniformly. Setting this aside now means it will be ready to incorporate into our wet ingredients without any last-minute scrambling, making the subsequent steps much smoother. The aroma of these spices together is just heavenly and really sets the tone for these delicious seasonal blondies.
3. Melt the Butter: Melt the unsalted butter for the blondies. You can do this in a microwave-safe bowl (in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to prevent overheating and splattering) or in a small saucepan over low heat on the stovetop. The key is to melt it completely but not to brown it unless the recipe specifically calls for browned butter. For these blondies, we want plain melted butter. Once melted, set it aside to cool slightly. You don’t want to add scorching hot butter to your other ingredients, especially the egg, as it could scramble it and affect the texture of your blondies. Aim for warm, not hot, to ensure everything emulsifies properly in the next step.

Crafting the Perfect Pumpkin Blondie Batter

4. Combine Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, pour in your slightly cooled melted butter. Add the packed light brown sugar and granulated sugar. Using a sturdy whisk or an electric mixer on medium-low speed, mix these together until they are well combined and smooth. This step is crucial because the sugars dissolve a bit into the butter, creating that characteristic chewy texture we all love in a good blondie. Mix for about 1-2 minutes until there are no dry streaks of sugar visible. The mixture will look slightly glossy and caramel-like, indicating the sugars are dissolving and binding beautifully with the butter. This provides the foundational sweetness and fudginess for our Pumpkin Blondies Recipe.
5. Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Next, add the large egg to the butter and sugar mixture. Beat it in thoroughly until it’s fully incorporated and the mixture looks cohesive and slightly lighter in color. This usually takes about 1 minute of mixing. The egg adds structure and richness. Then, stir in the pure vanilla extract, which enhances all the other flavors. Finally, add the star of the show: the pumpkin puree. Make sure you’re using 100% pure pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin pie filling has added sugars and spices that will throw off the balance of our recipe, resulting in an overly sweet or oddly spiced blondie. Mix the pumpkin puree until it’s completely combined and the batter is a uniform orange color. It should be smooth and luscious at this stage, a beautiful vibrant base for our blondies.
6. Add Dry Ingredients: Now it’s time to bring in our pre-whisked dry ingredients. Add them to the wet mixture in two additions, mixing on low speed or by hand with a spatula until just combined after each addition. The most important tip here is to not overmix! Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour too much, which can lead to tough, dry blondies instead of the tender, chewy ones we’re aiming for. Stop mixing as soon as you see no more streaks of dry flour. A few small lumps are perfectly fine and will disappear during baking. This gentle approach ensures your pumpkin blondies remain incredibly moist and soft, capturing that desired melt-in-your-mouth texture.
7. Fold in the Mix-ins: Finally, gently fold in your chosen mix-ins. For this Pumpkin Blondies Recipe, I absolutely adore white chocolate chips because their creamy sweetness complements the pumpkin and spices so wonderfully. Dark chocolate chips are also fantastic if you prefer a richer, more contrasting flavor, and a mix of both is divine! If you’re a nut lover, chopped pecans or walnuts add a delightful crunch and earthy note that pairs beautifully with pumpkin. Use a spatula to fold them in until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. You want every slice to have a good scattering of these delightful additions, adding texture and bursts of flavor.

Baking Your Delicious Pumpkin Blondies

8. Transfer Batter to Pan: Scrape the glorious blondie batter into your prepared 9×13 inch baking pan. Use your spatula to spread it evenly into all corners and smooth the top. This ensures even baking and a uniform thickness for your blondies, meaning every piece will be consistent in texture and doneness. Give the pan a gentle tap or two on the counter to release any trapped air bubbles that might create large holes in your finished blondies. This small step contributes to a beautifully dense and uniform bar.
9. Bake to Perfection: Place the pan in your preheated 350°F (175°C) oven. Bake for 25-35 minutes. Baking times can vary quite a bit depending on your oven (even between seemingly identical models), so keep a close eye on them. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are set and lightly golden brown, and the center appears just slightly firm but still a little soft when gently pressed. A classic test is inserting a toothpick into the center: it should come out with moist crumbs attached, but not wet batter. If it comes out completely clean, they might be slightly overbaked, which can make them a bit dry. We’re looking for that perfect fudgy texture, so slightly underbaked is better than overbaked for blondies! The residual heat will continue to cook them slightly as they cool.
10. Cool Completely: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool completely. This is a crucial step! Do not try to cut the blondies while they are warm, especially if you plan to glaze them. Warm blondies are very soft and delicate and will crumble if you try to cut them. Cooling allows them to set up properly, becoming wonderfully chewy and firm enough to slice cleanly. This typically takes at least 1-2 hours, or even longer, depending on your kitchen’s temperature. Patience is a virtue when it comes to perfect blondies! Rushing this step will only lead to frustration and messy pieces, so give your beautiful Pumpkin Blondies Recipe creations the time they need to set.

Optional Cream Cheese Glaze (A Must-Try Addition!)

While these Pumpkin Blondies are absolutely delicious on their own, a tangy, sweet cream cheese glaze takes them to an entirely new level. It adds a delightful creamy element that perfectly complements the spiced pumpkin flavor. If you’re looking to elevate your Pumpkin Blondies Recipe, I highly recommend this step!

11. Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and softened unsalted butter. Using an electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment), beat them together on medium speed until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, with no lumps of cream cheese remaining. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Make sure both ingredients are properly softened to room temperature, as this makes for a much smoother glaze that’s easy to spread and lump-free.
12. Add Remaining Glaze Ingredients: Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture, beating on low speed until just combined, then increasing to medium speed until smooth. Sifting the powdered sugar beforehand prevents lumps in your glaze, giving it a wonderfully silky texture. Next, beat in the pure vanilla extract, which adds another layer of warmth. Finally, add the milk or heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. You want a glaze that is thick enough to spread easily but still pourable. If it’s too thick, add a tiny bit more milk; if it’s too thin, add a little more sifted powdered sugar. The goal is a luscious, smooth glaze that complements, not overpowers, the blondies.
13. Glaze the Cooled Blondies: Once your blondies are completely cool (and I mean completely cool – otherwise, the glaze will melt right off and create a sticky mess!), carefully lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Transfer them to a cutting board or a wire rack set over a baking sheet (to catch any drips). Spread the cream cheese glaze evenly over the top of the blondies using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon. You can create decorative swirls or leave it smooth and even for a classic look. The visual appeal of this glaze truly makes these Pumpkin Blondies Recipe stand out.
14. Allow Glaze to Set: Let the glazed blondies sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes, or in the refrigerator for 5-10 minutes, allowing the glaze to set slightly before slicing. This prevents the glaze from smudging or sticking to your knife too much when you cut into them, ensuring beautiful, clean slices. This setting time is a small but important detail for presentation.

Slicing, Serving, and Storing

15. Slice and Serve: Using a sharp knife, cut the cooled and glazed blondies into squares or rectangles. I like to wipe my knife clean with a damp cloth between cuts, especially after glazing, to get really neat slices. This ensures each blondie looks as good as it tastes. Arrange them on a platter and watch them disappear! These Pumpkin Blondies are absolutely perfect for fall gatherings, a cozy afternoon treat with a cup of coffee or tea, or just a delightful dessert after dinner. The combination of warm spices, rich pumpkin, and sweet, chewy texture is simply irresistible, making this Pumpkin Blondies Recipe a true crowd-pleaser.
16. Storing Your Pumpkin Blondies: If by some miracle you have any leftover (which is a rare occurrence in my house!), store your Pumpkin Blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If they are glazed with the cream cheese frosting, I recommend storing them in the refrigerator to keep the frosting fresh and prevent it from spoiling, and they will last for up to 5 days. Just remember to bring them back to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving to ensure the blondies are soft and the glaze isn’t too firm. They also freeze beautifully for up to 2-3 months. Just wrap individual blondies tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, then thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy a little taste of autumn again. This makes them perfect for meal prepping your dessert cravings!

I genuinely hope you enjoy making and sharing this incredible Pumpkin Blondies Recipe as much as I do. It’s truly a labor of love that brings so much joy with every spiced, chewy bite. Happy baking, my friends!

Conclusion:

And there you have it, my friends! We’ve reached the sweet finale of our culinary journey, and I genuinely hope you’re as excited as I am about what we’ve discovered. This isn’t just another dessert; it’s an experience, a delightful embrace of autumn flavors that truly brightens any day. I can confidently say that this particular recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone who appreciates the comforting warmth of pumpkin, the chewy delight of a perfectly baked blondie, and the subtle dance of spices that makes every bite sing. It’s been meticulously crafted to deliver that perfect balance of moist tenderness and a slightly crisp edge, creating a textural masterpiece that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just dipping your toes into the wonderful world of homemade treats, you’ll find this recipe incredibly forgiving and rewarding. It’s more than just a sweet treat; it’s a moment of pure, unadulterated comfort wrapped in a golden, pumpkin-spiced package. The way the golden hue beckons and the aroma fills your kitchen is truly magical, setting the stage for a memorable indulgence. You’ll find yourself reaching for these blondies again and again!

Elevating Your Blondie Experience: Serving Suggestions and Creative Twists

Once your kitchen is filled with that incredible aroma and these beauties have cooled enough to handle (if you can wait that long!), the possibilities for enjoying them are endless. For an ultimate dessert experience, I highly recommend serving these blondies slightly warm, perhaps with a generous scoop of vanilla bean ice cream melting lazily over the top. The contrast of warm blondie and cold, creamy ice cream is simply divine, creating a symphony of temperatures and textures that will leave you wanting more. A delicate dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance, making them perfect for a special occasion, while a dollop of freshly whipped cream can elevate them to café-worthy status. They’re also absolutely spectacular alongside a steaming mug of your favorite coffee, a spiced chai latte, or a cozy cup of apple cider, making them the ideal companion for a relaxed afternoon or a quiet evening by the fire. Imagine curling up with a good book, a warm drink, and one of these delightful pumpkin blondies – pure bliss!

But don’t stop there! Part of the joy of baking is making a recipe truly your own, and this Pumpkin Blondies Recipe is wonderfully adaptable. If you’re a fan of nuts, consider folding in a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts with the chocolate chips for an extra layer of crunch and earthy flavor. White chocolate chips would lend a different kind of sweetness, creating a beautiful visual contrast and a creamier taste profile, while dark chocolate chunks would provide a rich, bittersweet counterpoint that many adore. For an even more decadent twist, try swirling in a spoonful of cream cheese frosting before baking – it creates a beautiful marble effect and adds a delightful tangy creaminess. A sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes or a drizzle of homemade maple glaze over the cooled blondies can also introduce exciting new dimensions of flavor and texture. And for those with dietary considerations, feel free to experiment with gluten-free flour blends or plant-based butter and egg substitutes; this recipe is resilient and often yields fantastic results even with thoughtful modifications. The versatility of these blondies truly knows no bounds!

Your Turn: Bake, Share, and Savor!

Now, it’s your turn to experience the magic! I truly hope you feel inspired to head into your kitchen and give this incredible recipe a try. It’s more than just following steps; it’s about creating something delicious with your own hands, filling your home with wonderful aromas, and sharing joy with those you love. I have no doubt that once you taste these warm, chewy, perfectly spiced pumpkin blondies, they will quickly become a cherished favorite in your baking repertoire. Don’t be shy about making them your own – add your personal flair, experiment with the suggestions I’ve shared, or come up with entirely new variations!

Please, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you add anything special? What did your family and friends think? Snap a photo of your glorious creations and share your thoughts. Your feedback and creativity inspire not just me, but other bakers too. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake some seriously delicious memories. Happy baking, everyone!