Imagine sinking your teeth into a decadent, moist pumpkin dessert that's part cake, part magic, and entirely irresistible! These Gooey Pumpkin Cake Bars are the ultimate autumn treat that will transform your kitchen into a cozy haven of warmth and deliciousness. With a perfect blend of rich pumpkin, warm spices, and melty chocolate chips, this recipe is about to become your new seasonal obsession that'll have everyone begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 60 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper, ensuring some overhang for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs until smooth and well combined. Ensure there are no lumps in the mixture.
- In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This helps prevent clumping and ensures even distribution of spices.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bars tough.
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips, reserving a small handful to sprinkle on top for a more decorative finish.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center - it should come out with a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes. The cake will continue to set as it cools.
- Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the cake out of the pan. Cut into 16 equal bars once completely cooled.
- Optional: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with cream cheese glaze before serving for extra indulgence.
Tips
- Use Fresh Spices: Make sure your cinnamon and nutmeg are fresh for the most vibrant flavor profile.
- Don't Overmix: Gently fold ingredients to keep the bars tender and light. Overmixing can lead to tough, dense bars.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow eggs and other wet ingredients to come to room temperature for better incorporation.
- Check for Moisture: The toothpick test is crucial - a few moist crumbs are perfect, but wet batter means more baking time.
- Cool Completely: Resist the temptation to cut bars immediately. Letting them cool helps them set and makes cutting easier.
- Storage Hack: These bars stay moist for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Customize: Feel free to swap chocolate chips for nuts or add a cream cheese swirl for extra decadence!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 35mg
