Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars

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Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars are that cozy fall comfort food you crave when the leaves start turning. These bars are thick, soft, and moist with a perfect balance of warm spices and bursts of gooey chocolate. Every bite feels like a comforting hug, making them a hit for both holiday parties and weekday snacks.

What makes these bars so irresistible is how incredibly simple they are to whip up. No fancy techniques, just a one-bowl batter that turns into pumpkin spice heaven. They fill the kitchen with the warm scent of cinnamon and nutmeg while baking, drawing everyone in like a magnet.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars Recipe

These bars are the best of both worlds—a soft cake texture paired with the rich sweetness of chocolate chips. The pumpkin keeps everything tender, and the recipe is flexible enough to add your favorite nuts or even a swirl of cream cheese. It’s also great for making ahead since the flavor only gets better the next day.

Can I Use Canned or Fresh Pumpkin Puree?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin works beautifully and is super convenient, especially when you’re short on time. Just make sure you’re using plain pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling. If you prefer fresh, roasted pumpkin puree, go for it—just ensure it’s well-blended and not too watery.

Ingredients for the Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars

These ingredients come together to create a warm, sweet, and spiced batter that bakes up into a treat that feels both festive and comforting.

• Pumpkin Puree: The star ingredient that gives moisture and that signature fall flavor.
• Brown Sugar: Adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness and helps the bars stay soft.
• Granulated Sugar: Balances the flavor and supports structure.
• Melted Butter: Provides richness and that irresistible buttery taste.
• Egg: Helps bind everything together.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and enhances the pumpkin spices.
• All-Purpose Flour: Gives the bars their structure without making them dry.
• Baking Soda: For just the right lift.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves that makes these bars taste like fall.
• Salt: Balances all the sweetness.
• Chocolate Chips: The melty, sweet pockets that make these bars extra delicious.

How To Make the Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This makes it easier to remove the bars later.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a large bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and melted butter until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and stir until combined.

Sprinkle the flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt over the wet ingredients and gently fold until just combined. Don’t overmix—this keeps the bars tender.

Step 3: Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in the chocolate chips, saving a few to sprinkle on top before baking.

Step 4: Bake

Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Top with the reserved chocolate chips. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Let the bars cool in the pan before slicing. They’re even better the next day as the flavors deepen.

How to Serve and Store Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars

These bars are perfect as-is, served slightly warm or at room temperature. They make a cozy dessert, a sweet snack with coffee, or even a festive brunch treat. This recipe yields about 9 generous bars, ideal for sharing.

To store, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. They also freeze well—wrap individual bars in plastic and freeze for up to 2 months.

What to Serve With Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars?

Hot Apple Cider

A warm mug of apple cider brings out the fall spices in the bars.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Serve a bar warm with a scoop of vanilla for a dessert that’s part cookie, part pie.

Spiced Chai Tea

The aromatic spices in chai tea complement the pumpkin flavors beautifully.

Whipped Cream

A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a creamy, airy contrast.

Maple Latte

The sweet notes of maple in the coffee balance the rich chocolate and spice.

Roasted Pecans

Sprinkle on top or serve on the side for crunch and nutty warmth.

Cream Cheese Frosting

Spread a thin layer on top if you’re feeling extra indulgent.

Want More Bar Recipes That Bring a Twist?

If you’re into dessert bars with a little something special, don’t miss these:

• Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars for a chewy, nostalgic bite.
• Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Mini Pies if you’re craving candy-bar-level satisfaction.
• White Chocolate Orange Creamsicle Truffles for a bright, citrusy contrast.
• Brown Sugar Maple Cookies with deep fall flavors in every bite.
• Pumpkin Bread with Maple Cream Cheese Filling if you want more pumpkin but with a creamy surprise.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add walnuts or maybe a swirl of cream cheese? I love hearing your twists and tips.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and comfort bakes on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and find something new to cozy up with.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars are the kind of easy bake that turns into a family favorite. Whether you’re prepping them for a get-together or just need something warm and sweet on a cool day, they hit the mark. Moist, packed with flavor, and just indulgent enough, they’re a must-bake for any pumpkin season.

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