If you’re ready to savor the taste of fall, you’ve come to the right place! My Pumpkin Cream Cheese Blondies are a sweet twist on a classic treat. Packed with rich pumpkin flavor and creamy swirls, these bars are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or simply craving a dessert, this recipe has you covered. Let’s dive into the delicious details so you can make your own batch today!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– 1 tablespoon milk
– 1/2 cup pecans or walnuts, chopped (optional)
Measurements and Substitutions
Use unsalted butter for the best flavor. If you want a dairy-free option, substitute with coconut oil. You can swap brown sugar with coconut sugar for a healthier choice. If you don’t have pumpkin puree, use mashed bananas or applesauce instead.
Optional Add-ins and Toppings
You can add chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for a crunchy bite. For a fun twist, try adding chocolate chips or white chocolate chips. For a festive touch, sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top before baking. Dust with powdered sugar after baking for a nice finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
To start, gather all your ingredients. You’ll need:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– 1 tablespoon milk
– 1/2 cup pecans or walnuts, chopped (optional)
Now, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. Line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang. This helps with easy removal later.
In a large bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Stir until it looks smooth. Next, add pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat this mixture until it is fully combined.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Slowly mix this into the wet ingredients. Be careful not to over-mix. If you like nuts, fold in the chopped pecans or walnuts now.
Baking Instructions
In a small bowl, prepare the cream cheese swirl. Beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk until it is smooth and creamy.
Pour half of the blondie batter into your prepared pan. Spread it evenly. Then, drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the batter. Use a knife or toothpick to swirl it gently. It should look marbled.
Pour the remaining blondie batter over the cream cheese layer. Spread it gently to cover everything.
Bake in your preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes. Check with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, your blondies are ready!
Cooling and Serving Tips
Once baked, take the pan out of the oven. Let it cool for about 10 minutes. Use the parchment overhang to lift the blondies onto a wire rack. Let them cool completely.
When cooled, slice the blondies into squares. To make them extra special, dust the tops with powdered sugar. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream on the side. Enjoy every bite!
Tips & Tricks
Baking Tips for Perfect Blondies
To bake the best pumpkin cream cheese blondies, follow these tips:
– Use room temperature butter. This helps blend the sugars smoothly.
– Measure flour correctly. Spoon flour into the measuring cup and level it off. Too much flour makes blondies dry.
– Don’t over-mix the batter. Mix until just combined for a soft texture.
– Check your oven temperature. Use an oven thermometer if needed. This ensures even cooking.
How to Achieve the Best Cream Cheese Swirl
Creating a lovely cream cheese swirl is key to these blondies. Here’s how:
– Soften the cream cheese. It should be at room temperature for easy mixing.
– Beat until smooth. Mix the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk until creamy. This helps spread it easily.
– Drop spoonfuls evenly. Add dollops of the cream cheese mixture on top of the batter.
– Swirl gently. Use a knife or toothpick to create a marbled effect. Don’t mix too much, or it will blend in.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your blondies turn out perfect, avoid these mistakes:
– Using cold ingredients. Cold butter or eggs can lead to uneven mixing.
– Overbaking. Keep an eye on the baking time. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs.
– Skipping the parchment paper. This helps remove the blondies easily from the pan.
– Not cooling before cutting. Let them cool completely for cleaner slices.
Variations
Alternative Flavors and Ingredients
You can change up the pumpkin cream cheese blondies for fun. Try adding different spices like ginger or cloves for a warm twist. You might also swap pumpkin for sweet potato puree for a unique flavor. If you want a bit of tang, mix in some lemon zest.
Gluten-Free Options
You can make these blondies gluten-free with a few simple swaps. Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Make sure the blend has xanthan gum for better texture. This way, everyone can enjoy these sweet treats without worry.
Vegan Substitutions
To make the blondies vegan, you can replace the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. Use flax eggs instead of regular eggs. Just mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water for each egg. For the cream cheese, try a vegan cream cheese option. These swaps keep the flavor while making it friendly for all diets.
Storage Info
How to Store Pumpkin Cream Cheese Blondies
To keep your pumpkin cream cheese blondies fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place a layer of parchment paper between the layers of blondies to prevent sticking. You can keep them at room temperature for up to three days. If you live in a warm area, store them in the fridge for better flavor and texture.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze these blondies to enjoy later. First, let them 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. They will stay fresh for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat them, just take out what you need.
Reheating Tips
To reheat your blondies, simply remove them from the fridge or freezer. If frozen, let them thaw for a bit. You can warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. If you want a crispier edge, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes. Enjoy them warm for a lovely treat!
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Just make sure to cook and puree it first. Fresh pumpkin has a different flavor and texture than canned. This can change your blondies a bit. If you use fresh, choose a sweet variety like sugar pumpkin.
How can I tell when the blondies are done baking?
Check the blondies after 30 minutes. Insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, they are done. If it has wet batter on it, bake for a few more minutes. The edges should look set and slightly golden.
What are the best ways to decorate or serve these blondies?
You can dust the tops with powdered sugar for a sweet touch. A dollop of whipped cream adds a nice creaminess. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a special treat. Adding chopped nuts on top can give extra crunch and flavor.
You’ve learned everything you need to bake delicious pumpkin cream cheese blondies. From gathering ingredients to perfecting baking techniques, each step counts. Remember the tips to avoid common mistakes and explore fun variations. Store your blondies well for longer enjoyment, and don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors. I hope you feel ready and inspired to make this sweet treat. Enjoy sharing your blondies with family and friends!
