Get ready for an autumn delight! My Spiced Pumpkin Pecan Blondies are the perfect fall treat. They blend warm spices, creamy pumpkin, and crunchy pecans in one delicious bite. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these blondies will warm your heart. In this guide, I’ll walk you through every step, from gathering ingredients to perfect baking tips. Let’s dive into this enticing recipe and savor the flavors of fall together!
Ingredients
List of Required Ingredients
To make spiced pumpkin pecan blondies, gather these key ingredients:
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped pecans
Optional Ingredients
You can add more fun with these optional ingredients:
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
Substitute Ideas
If you need substitutes, here are some ideas:
– Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
– Swap brown sugar for coconut sugar for a healthier choice.
– Almond flour can replace all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.
– Use chopped walnuts if you don’t have pecans.
These ingredients and substitutes help create a tasty treat that fits your needs. Each ingredient plays a role in making these blondies soft, sweet, and full of flavor. Enjoy the process and get ready for a delightful fall dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. This makes it easy to lift the blondies out later. In a large bowl, mix the melted butter, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Make sure to blend these well. Next, whisk in the eggs, one at a time. Add the vanilla extract and stir until the mixture is smooth.
In a different bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. This helps to combine the dry ingredients evenly. Gradually fold the dry mix into the wet mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Finally, gently fold in the chopped pecans and white chocolate chips if you choose to add them.
Baking Process
Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top. Place the pan in your preheated oven. Bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know they are done when the edges turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary.
Cooling and Cutting
After baking, let the blondies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This helps them set up nicely. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once they are cool, cut them into squares. I recommend using a sharp knife for clean edges. For a lovely touch, serve them on a rustic wooden board. Dust with powdered sugar and add some whole pecans and pumpkin seeds for decoration. Enjoy with a warm drink for the perfect fall treat!
Tips & Tricks
How to Avoid Overmixing
Overmixing can ruin the texture of your blondies. When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, fold them together gently. Use a spatula rather than a whisk. Stop mixing as soon as you see no flour streaks. This keeps your blondies soft and chewy.
Perfecting Texture and Flavor
The key to great texture lies in the right balance of ingredients. Use fresh pumpkin puree for rich flavor. If possible, measure your flour by spooning it into the cup. This prevents packing and keeps the blondies light. Adding chopped pecans gives a nice crunch. Consider white chocolate chips for a sweet contrast.
Serving Suggestions
For a lovely presentation, cut the blondies into squares and place them on a rustic wooden board. Dust with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness. Garnish with whole pecans and pumpkin seeds for added flair. Pair these blondies with a warm drink like cider or coffee. This makes for the perfect cozy fall treat!
Variations
Chocolate Chip Addition
You can make your spiced pumpkin pecan blondies even more delightful by adding chocolate chips. Chocolate pairs well with pumpkin and spices. You can use white, dark, or milk chocolate chips. Just fold in about half a cup when mixing in the pecans. This small change adds a rich flavor and creamy texture.
Nut Alternatives
If you want to switch up the nuts, try using walnuts or hazelnuts instead of pecans. Both options give a different taste and crunch. You can also skip the nuts for a nut-free version. Just make sure to adjust the baking time slightly. This allows for a soft and tasty blondie without nuts.
Gluten-Free Version
To make these blondies gluten-free, simply swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Look for a blend that includes xanthan gum. This helps keep the blondies moist and chewy. Follow the same steps and baking times, and you’ll still enjoy a delicious fall treat.
Storage Info
Best Storage Practices
To keep your spiced pumpkin pecan blondies fresh, store them in an airtight container. This will help maintain their soft texture and rich flavor. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers of blondies to prevent sticking. Store them at room temperature for easy access. If you want to keep them for longer, try refrigerating them.
Freezing Instructions
If you have leftovers or want to make a batch ahead of time, freezing is a great option. First, let the blondies cool completely. Then, cut them into squares. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped blondies in a freezer-safe bag or container. These can stay in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds.
Shelf Life for Freshness
Fresh blondies will last about five days at room temperature. If stored in the fridge, they can last up to a week. Just remember to check for any changes in texture or smell. If they start to dry out or harden, it’s time to let them go. Keeping track of their shelf life ensures you enjoy them at their best.
FAQs
How can I make these blondies more chocolatey?
You can add chocolate chips to the batter. Use about 1/2 cup of dark or milk chocolate chips. Fold them in with the pecans. This addition gives a nice balance to the pumpkin flavor. You can also drizzle melted chocolate over the top once they cool. That adds a nice finish and extra flavor.
Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?
I recommend sticking with pumpkin puree. Pumpkin pie filling has added spices and sugar. This can change the taste and texture of your blondies. If you do use it, cut back on the brown sugar and spices. This keeps your blondies tasty and true to the recipe.
What’s the best way to tell when blondies are done baking?
The edges of the blondies should be golden brown. Check with a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. If it’s wet with batter, give them a few more minutes. Don’t overbake, or they will dry out.
This article guides you through making delicious blondies. We covered key ingredients, step-by-step baking instructions, and helpful tips. You learned about tasty variations, storage options, and answers to common questions. With these insights, you can bake the best blondies ever. Have fun experimenting with swaps and flavors. Enjoy the satisfying process of baking and sharing your treats with friends!
