There’s something magical about the combination of pumpkin puree and chocolate chips—especially in the fall. These soft and chewy pumpkin chocolate chip bars are a must-try treat that perfectly blends warm spices with rich, melty chocolate. Whether you’re baking for a cozy evening at home or preparing a dessert for a gathering, these bars are guaranteed to be a hit.

Pumpkin-based desserts have been a seasonal favorite for centuries. The use of pumpkin in baking dates back to early American settlers who incorporated it into their bread and pies. Today, it remains a staple in fall treats, thanks to its moist texture and naturally sweet, earthy flavor. To learn more about how pumpkin has influenced culinary traditions, check out this Wikipedia article on pumpkin.

What makes these bars extra special? It’s the blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger—classic pumpkin spice ingredients that bring warmth and depth to every bite. If you’re a fan of fall baking, you’ll love exploring other seasonal recipes on Pinterest’s Fall Baking Recipes board. From pumpkin muffins to spice cakes, there’s no shortage of inspiration!

Would you enjoy these bars with a cup of coffee or a mug of hot cocoa? Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert, these pumpkin chocolate chip bars check all the boxes. They’re soft, chewy, and packed with fall flavors, making them a go-to treat for the season. Whether you’re new to fall baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is simple enough for anyone to master.

Reasons to Make These Bars

Quick & Easy: No complicated steps—just mix, bake, and enjoy.
Perfect Texture: A balance between chewy cookie bars and moist pumpkin cake.
Seasonal Flavors: The combination of pumpkin spice and chocolate chips is unbeatable.
Great for Gatherings: Perfect for holiday parties, bake sales, or meal prep desserts.
Kid-Friendly: A delicious way to introduce kids to pumpkin desserts.

These bars are also incredibly versatile. Want to make them healthier? Try substituting some of the butter with applesauce for a lighter texture. Prefer a richer flavor? Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet. If you’re interested in experimenting with different variations, check out Pinterest’s Easy Dessert Bars for more creative ideas!

There’s no wrong way to enjoy these pumpkin chocolate chip bars. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or pair them with your favorite pumpkin spice latte for the ultimate fall treat. Before we get to the step-by-step guide, let’s break down the essential ingredients that make this recipe so delicious.

Key Ingredients & Their Roles

The secret to making the best pumpkin chocolate chip bars lies in using the right ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in ensuring the bars turn out soft, moist, and flavorful. Let’s take a closer look at what makes these bars so irresistible.

Dry Ingredients

All-Purpose Flour – The base of the recipe, providing structure and texture. A well-measured balance ensures the bars stay chewy rather than cakey.
Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent, helping the bars rise slightly for a soft bite. Learn more about how baking soda works in baked goods by visiting Wikipedia’s article on baking soda.
Salt – Enhances the overall flavor by balancing the sweetness of the sugar and chocolate.
Cinnamon, Nutmeg, and Ginger – These warm spices bring out the signature fall flavor. If you love the aroma of pumpkin spice, you’ll enjoy experimenting with these ingredients in other fall desserts. Explore more about cinnamon and its history in baking on Wikipedia’s cinnamon page.

Wet Ingredients

Unsalted Butter (Melted) – Adds richness and moisture. Using melted butter instead of softened butter helps achieve the perfect chewy texture.
Brown Sugar – Provides a deep, caramel-like sweetness that complements the pumpkin and spices.
Granulated Sugar – Helps create a balanced sweetness and contributes to the soft texture.
Egg – Acts as a binding agent, helping hold all the ingredients together.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavors of the spices and chocolate chips, making the bars even more delicious.
Pumpkin Puree – The star ingredient! Pumpkin keeps the bars moist while adding a subtle, earthy sweetness. If you’re using homemade pumpkin puree, make sure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture. Read more about pumpkin’s culinary uses on Wikipedia’s pumpkin article.

Mix-Ins

Chocolate Chips – The best part! Melty chocolate chips add richness and contrast beautifully with the pumpkin spice flavors. Want to try different mix-ins? Visit Pinterest’s Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Recipes for inspiration!
Optional Add-Ins:
- Chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts) – For a crunchy texture.
- White chocolate chips – A sweeter, creamier alternative to semi-sweet chocolate.
- Dried cranberries – Adds a tart contrast to the sweet, spiced bars.

With the right combination of these key ingredients, you’re well on your way to making soft, chewy pumpkin chocolate chip bars that everyone will love. Now, let’s get into the step-by-step process of bringing this recipe to life!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making these pumpkin chocolate chip bars is incredibly simple. Follow these easy steps to create a soft, chewy, and perfectly spiced fall treat.

1. Preheat & Prepare

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ginger
Set aside. This blend of dry ingredients ensures a balanced texture and enhances the pumpkin spice flavor. For more tips on using spices in baking, check out Wikipedia’s article on nutmeg.

3. Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix:
- ½ cup melted unsalted butter
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
Stir until smooth. This combination of sugars adds depth to the sweetness.
Add:
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
Mix until well combined. The pumpkin puree not only provides flavor but also acts as a natural moisture booster.

4. Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently.
Be careful not to overmix—this keeps the bars soft and tender.

5. Fold in Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips.
For extra chocolate flavor, sprinkle a few additional chocolate chips on top before baking. If you love experimenting with different mix-ins, check out more ideas on Pinterest’s Homemade Treats board.

6. Bake to Perfection

Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to prevent crumbling.

7. Cool & Serve

Once cooled, slice into bars or squares.
Enjoy with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa.

Now that you’ve mastered the baking process, let’s go over some essential tips to make sure your bars turn out perfect.

Baking Tips & Tricks

To achieve the best pumpkin chocolate chip bars, follow these expert tips. These simple adjustments can make a big difference in texture, flavor, and overall baking success.

1. Avoid Overmixing

Stir the wet and dry ingredients together just until combined.
Overmixing can lead to dense and tough bars instead of the desired soft and chewy texture.

2. Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree

If using homemade pumpkin puree, ensure it’s well-drained to remove excess moisture.
Canned pumpkin is more consistent in texture, making it a reliable choice. Learn more about pumpkin’s culinary uses on Wikipedia’s pumpkin article.

3. Check for Doneness Properly

Insert a toothpick into the center of the bars. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they’re done.
Avoid overbaking, as this can dry out the bars.

4. Adjust Sweetness & Flavor

Reduce the sugar slightly if using sweetened chocolate chips.
Want a stronger spice flavor? Increase the cinnamon and nutmeg slightly. For more insight on the role of spices, visit Wikipedia’s cinnamon page.

5. Let the Bars Rest for Enhanced Flavor

These bars taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
Store in an airtight container overnight to let the spices infuse.

By following these tips, you’ll bake perfect pumpkin chocolate chip bars every time. Next, let’s explore some fun variations and ways to customize this recipe!

Variations & Customization Ideas

One of the best things about pumpkin chocolate chip bars is how versatile they are. You can easily customize them to suit different dietary preferences or flavor preferences. Try these fun variations to make the recipe your own!

1. Make It Gluten-Free

Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour blend.
Ensure your baking soda and chocolate chips are certified gluten-free.

2. Vegan Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars

Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water).
Use vegan butter or coconut oil instead of regular butter.
Choose dairy-free chocolate chips like the ones used in vegan baking.

3. Add Some Crunch

Mix in chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds for extra texture.
Toasted nuts add a warm, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with pumpkin spice.

4. Switch Up the Chocolate

Instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips, try:
- Dark chocolate chips for a richer taste.
- White chocolate chips for a creamier, sweeter variation.
- Mini chocolate chips for a more evenly distributed chocolate flavor.

5. Extra Spice for a Bolder Fall Flavor

Increase the cinnamon to 1 ½ teaspoons and add a pinch of cloves for deeper spice notes.
Love pumpkin spice? Explore more fall-inspired treats on Pinterest’s Pumpkin Spice Desserts board.

6. Healthier Version

Reduce the butter slightly and replace half with unsweetened applesauce for a lighter texture.
Use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a lower glycemic option.

These easy swaps make it possible to tailor this recipe to your taste and dietary needs. Now, let’s talk about how to store and serve these delicious bars!

Serving Suggestions & Storage Tips

Once you’ve baked these soft and chewy pumpkin chocolate chip bars, it’s time to enjoy them! Here’s how to serve and store them for the best taste and freshness.

1. Best Ways to Serve

Warm & Gooey: Microwave a bar for 10-15 seconds for a melty chocolate experience.
With a Drink: Pair with a cup of hot coffee, chai tea, or a pumpkin spice latte for the ultimate fall treat.
As a Dessert: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle with caramel sauce.
For Breakfast: Enjoy with a glass of milk or yogurt for a sweet morning treat.

2. How to Store Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars

At Room Temperature: Keep bars in an airtight container for 3 days.
In the Refrigerator: Store for up to one week in a sealed container.

3. Freezing Tips

Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Freeze for up to 3 months.
To enjoy, thaw at room temperature or microwave for 15-20 seconds.

For more storage ideas and homemade dessert inspiration, check out Pinterest’s Homemade Treats board. Now, let’s answer some common questions about these delicious bars!

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Here are answers to some common questions about making the best pumpkin chocolate chip bars.

1. Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned?

Yes! You can use homemade pumpkin puree, but make sure it’s well-drained to remove excess moisture. Canned pumpkin is thicker and more consistent, making it the best choice for baking. Learn more about the benefits of pumpkin puree on Wikipedia’s pumpkin article.

2. Can I Make This Recipe with White Chocolate Chips?

Absolutely! White chocolate chips add a sweeter, creamier flavor that pairs beautifully with the spiced pumpkin base. You can also mix dark and white chocolate chips for a balanced flavor.

3. What Can I Use Instead of Eggs?

To make these bars egg-free, try these substitutes:

Flax Egg: Mix 1 tablespoon flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons water. Let it sit for 5 minutes before adding to the batter.
Applesauce: Use ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce per egg for extra moisture.
Mashed Banana: Substitute ½ a ripe banana for a slightly different flavor.

4. Why Are My Pumpkin Bars Too Dense?

Overmixing the batter can make the bars too dense. Stir gently until just combined.
Too much pumpkin puree can add extra moisture. Stick to 1 cup for the best texture.
If your baking soda is expired, the bars may not rise properly. Learn more about baking soda’s role in baking from Wikipedia’s baking soda article.

5. How Do I Make These More Cake-Like?

For a fluffier, cake-like texture:

Add an extra egg for more structure.
Use ¾ cup butter instead of ½ cup for extra richness.
Increase baking soda to 1 ¼ teaspoons for more lift.

These tips will help you customize the recipe to match your ideal texture and taste. Now you’re all set to bake the perfect batch of pumpkin chocolate chip bars! 🎃🍫

Delicious Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars

Author: Christopher

Print Recipe

Description

These pumpkin chocolate chip bars are the ultimate fall treat! 🍂🎃 They’re soft, chewy, and packed with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, perfectly complementing the rich chocolate chips. Made with real pumpkin puree, these bars are moist and flavorful, making them an easy go-to dessert for any autumn gathering. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of coffee, a pumpkin spice latte, or a glass of milk, these bars are guaranteed to be a hit!

Perfect for holiday parties, meal prep, or a cozy night in, this recipe comes together quickly with simple pantry ingredients. Try customizing it with white chocolate chips, nuts, or dried cranberries for a fun twist!

Ingredients

Scale

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon nutmeg
½ teaspoon ginger
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
¾ cup brown sugar
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup pumpkin puree
1 cup chocolate chips

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.

In a separate large bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.

Add the egg, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree, stirring until well combined.

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.

Fold in the chocolate chips evenly throughout the batter.

Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.

Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Let cool completely before cutting into bars. Serve and enjoy.

Notes

Pumpkin Puree: Use 100% pure pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) for the best results. If using homemade pumpkin puree, make sure to drain excess liquid.
Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chocolate works great, but dark, white, or even a mix of all three will add variety.
Spices: Adjust the cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to taste. For extra spice, add a pinch of cloves or allspice.
Storage: Keep at room temperature for 3 days, refrigerate for a week, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Baking Tip: Don’t overmix the batter—this keeps the bars soft and tender.

Would you enjoy these bars with hot cocoa or chai tea? Let me know how you like to serve them! 🍪☕