When the air turns crisp and the leaves start to fall, there’s nothing that calls me to the kitchen faster than the thought of baking Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars. They remind me of the first time I baked with my kids on a rainy October afternoon — flour on our cheeks, chocolate smudges on our fingers, and the warm scent of cinnamon filling the house. These bars capture that perfect blend of pumpkin spice comfort and rich, melty chocolate.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love Making These Bars
What makes them special is their versatility. While they’re the ultimate autumn bake, they taste just as amazing in spring with a cup of coffee or as a summer picnic treat. The moist pumpkin base pairs beautifully with bursts of chocolate, creating a snack that feels indulgent yet wholesome. If you love that spiced pumpkin goodness, you’ll probably also fall for my Pumpkin Streusel Bread — a soft, crumbly loaf that’s equally irresistible.
First, they’re incredibly easy. With simple pantry staples and a straightforward method, you can whip them up in under an hour, start to finish. Second, the flavor is unbeatable: pumpkin brings natural sweetness and moisture, while cinnamon, ginger, and cloves add a warming depth. Third, they store beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep or holiday gifting.
If you’re a fan of cozy bakes with a twist, you might also want to try my Pumpkin Cottage Cheese Bake — it’s creamy, protein-packed, and just as comforting. Together, these recipes create the kind of baking memories that stick around long after the last crumb is gone.
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Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars: A Cozy Treat for Any Season
Moist, spiced pumpkin bars packed with rich chocolate chips – a cozy dessert for any season.
- Total Time: 50 mins
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon
¾ teaspoon ginger
½ teaspoon allspice
½ teaspoon ground cloves
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
½ cup brown sugar
¾ cup white sugar
1 large egg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup pumpkin puree
2 cups chocolate chips, divided
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk flour, cinnamon, ginger, allspice, cloves, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a stand mixer, cream butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until fluffy.
4. Add egg, vanilla, and pumpkin puree; mix until smooth.
5. Fold dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined.
6. Stir in 1 ½ cups chocolate chips.
7. Spread batter into greased 13×9-inch pan.
8. Sprinkle remaining chocolate chips on top.
9. Bake for 30–35 minutes until edges are golden and a toothpick has moist crumbs.
10. Cool completely before slicing.
Notes
For best results, avoid overmixing the batter.
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze individually wrapped bars for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 245
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 135mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Ingredients & Baking Tips for Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars
Key Ingredients That Make These Bars Irresistible
Every great batch of Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars starts with the right ingredients. All-purpose flour forms the structure, while a blend of cinnamon, ginger, allspice, and cloves gives that warm, unmistakable pumpkin spice flavor. Pumpkin puree is the star — canned pumpkin ensures consistent moisture and flavor, but fresh puree can be just as good if you have the time to prepare it.
Butter adds richness, and the combination of brown and white sugar creates the ideal balance of flavor and texture. Brown sugar brings a subtle molasses depth that pairs beautifully with pumpkin, while white sugar adds a clean sweetness. And of course, the chocolate chips — two generous cups — provide melty, chocolatey bursts in every bite.
If you love moist, chocolate-infused baked goods, my Chocolate Zucchini Bread Recipe is another treat worth adding to your list. For an extra decadent option, my Zucchini Brownies with Chocolate Glaze Recipe offers a rich, fudgy texture you’ll crave again and again.
Tips for Perfectly Soft, Moist Bars
The secret to tender Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars is in the mixing. Whisking the dry ingredients first helps the spices distribute evenly. When combining the wet and dry mixtures, stir only until just blended — overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of the soft crumb you’re aiming for.
Baking time is equally important. Begin checking at the 30-minute mark; the edges should be lightly golden, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs. Let the bars cool completely before slicing to keep the structure intact and achieve neat, bakery-style squares.
Step-by-Step Baking Guide for Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars
Mixing the Batter
Making Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars is easy when you follow the right order of steps. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F so it’s ready when the batter is complete. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, ginger, allspice, cloves, baking soda, and salt. This ensures the spices are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
In a stand mixer, cream the room-temperature butter with both brown and white sugars until light and fluffy — this creates a smooth base and helps the bars bake up soft. Add in the egg, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree, mixing until the wet ingredients are fully combined. Gradually fold in the dry mixture, being careful not to overmix. Stir in 1 ½ cups of chocolate chips, saving the remaining ½ cup for topping.
If you enjoy rich chocolate bakes, my Double Chocolate Zucchini Muffins are another simple recipe with a deep cocoa flavor. For a lighter yet equally satisfying option, try my Chocolate Chip Zucchini Muffins — perfect for breakfast or snacks.
Baking & Cooling for Best Flavor
Lightly spray a 13×9-inch baking dish with nonstick baking spray. Spread the batter evenly in the pan and sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips over the top for that extra indulgent touch. Bake for 30–35 minutes, checking at 30 minutes to prevent overbaking. The bars are ready when the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing. This step helps them set properly and ensures clean, neat pieces with gooey pockets of chocolate in every bite.
Serving, Storing & Variations for Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars
Serving Ideas for Every Season
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars are one of those desserts that fit in anywhere — from casual afternoon snacks to festive holiday platters. Serve them slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a cozy fall dessert, or alongside a cup of coffee for a quick breakfast treat. During the holidays, wrap slices in parchment and tie them with ribbon for an easy, homemade gift.
If you like citrusy twists in your baking, my Luscious Lemon Zucchini Bread offers a bright, refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate and spice in these bars. And for a wholesome option that still satisfies a sweet tooth, my Banana Zucchini Muffins are perfect for meal prep.
Creative Variations to Try
There are so many ways to make Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars your own. Swap the semi-sweet chocolate chips for white chocolate or dark chocolate for a different flavor profile. Add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch, or drizzle with salted caramel for a bakery-worthy finish. If you’re feeling adventurous, fold in dried cranberries or toffee bits to give each bite a surprise twist.
These variations not only keep the recipe exciting but also let you tailor it to the season or occasion. No matter how you customize them, the combination of pumpkin spice and chocolate always delivers that perfect balance of cozy and indulgent.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars
Can I make Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the bars up to two days in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature, and they’ll stay soft and flavorful. If you want them warm, pop them in the microwave for 10–15 seconds before serving.
Can I freeze Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars?
Absolutely. Once cooled, cut the bars into squares and wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
You can. Just make sure your fresh pumpkin puree is well-drained to prevent excess moisture, which could make the bars soggy. Canned pumpkin tends to be more consistent, but fresh works beautifully when prepared correctly.
How do I keep my bars from being dry?
Avoid overmixing the batter, and check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested bake time. Removing them when a toothpick shows a few moist crumbs ensures they stay soft and tender.
Conclusion
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars are proof that simple recipes can deliver big flavor. With a moist pumpkin base, warm spices, and rich chocolate chips, they’re perfect for any occasion — from cozy fall afternoons to holiday dessert spreads.
Easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and always delicious, these bars are sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Bake a batch, share them with loved ones, and enjoy a treat that’s as comforting as it is irresistible.
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