Description of this recipe These Spiced Vegan Pumpkin Blondies are a delightful twist on the classic blondie, infused with the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin and spice. Perfect for fall gatherings, holiday treats, or simply a cozy afternoon snack, these blondies are incredibly moist, chewy, and packed with delicious flavors. They’re also vegan, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions or preferences. The combination of pumpkin puree, aromatic spices, and optional vegan chocolate chips and nuts creates a truly irresistible treat that everyone will love.
Why you will love this recipe You will absolutely adore these Spiced Vegan Pumpkin Blondies for several compelling reasons. First and foremost, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort and ingredients. The recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. Secondly, the flavor profile is outstanding. The pumpkin puree adds a moistness and subtle sweetness, while the blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves creates a warm, comforting spice that perfectly complements the pumpkin. The addition of vegan chocolate chips and nuts adds a delightful textural contrast and enhances the overall taste experience. Furthermore, these blondies are vegan, meaning they are free from dairy and eggs, making them a healthier and more inclusive option for those with dietary restrictions or preferences. They’re also incredibly versatile; you can easily customize them with different types of nuts, spices, or even add a swirl of pumpkin butter on top for an extra touch of indulgence. Finally, these blondies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual get-together, a holiday celebration, or simply a cozy night in. Their delicious flavor and satisfying texture will leave you craving more every time.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1⁄2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1⁄2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1⁄4 tsp ground ginger
- 1⁄4 tsp ground cloves
- 1⁄4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup melted coconut oil
- 1 cup packed organic brown sugar
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup almond milk or any plant-based milk
- 1/2 cup vegan chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan by greasing it thoroughly with coconut oil or lining it with parchment paper, ensuring the paper overhangs the sides for easy removal of the blondies. This step is crucial to prevent the blondies from sticking to the pan and ensures a clean release once they are cooled.
Step 2: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine all the dry ingredients. This includes 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger, 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Whisk these ingredients together vigorously until they are thoroughly combined. This ensures that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour, which will result in a uniform flavor in the final product.
Step 3: In a separate, larger mixing bowl, combine the wet ingredients. This includes 1/2 cup of melted coconut oil and 1 cup of packed brown sugar. Mix these ingredients together using a whisk or a hand mixer until they are well combined and the mixture is smooth. The coconut oil and brown sugar will create a rich, caramel-like base for the blondies. Be sure to pack the brown sugar when measuring it to ensure the correct amount is used.
Step 4: Add 1/2 cup of canned pumpkin puree and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the wet ingredients. Stir these ingredients into the coconut oil and brown sugar mixture until everything is well combined and the batter is smooth and uniform in color. The pumpkin puree adds moisture and a subtle pumpkin flavor to the blondies, while the vanilla extract enhances the overall sweetness and aroma.
Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with 1/3 cup of almond milk (or any plant-based milk). Begin by adding about one-third of the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Then, add half of the almond milk and stir again until just combined. Repeat this process, alternating between the dry ingredients and the almond milk, until all the ingredients are incorporated. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in tough blondies.
Step 6: Fold in 1/2 cup of vegan chocolate chips and 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts (if using). These ingredients add texture and flavor to the blondies. Gently fold them into the batter until they are evenly distributed.
Step 7: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread the batter evenly across the bottom of the pan, ensuring that it reaches all corners. This will help the blondies bake evenly.
Step 8: Bake the blondies in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so it’s important to check the blondies periodically to prevent them from overbaking.
Step 9: Once the blondies are done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help the blondies set and prevent them from crumbling when you cut them.
Step 10: Once the blondies are completely cooled, cut them into squares using a sharp knife. Serve and enjoy!
COOKING Rating: Easy
Serving Suggestions: These Spiced Vegan Pumpkin Blondies are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. For a simple yet satisfying treat, serve them as is with a glass of almond milk or a cup of coffee. For a more decadent experience, warm them slightly in the microwave and top with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of maple syrup. They also pair wonderfully with a dollop of vegan whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. For a festive touch, consider adding a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted vegan white chocolate. These blondies are also a fantastic addition to any dessert platter or potluck gathering.
Tips:
- To ensure the blondies are perfectly moist, avoid overbaking them. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
- For a more intense pumpkin flavor, consider adding 1/4 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice in addition to the individual spices.
- If you don’t have almond milk on hand, any plant-based milk such as soy milk, oat milk, or cashew milk will work well.
- To prevent the nuts from sinking to the bottom of the blondies, toss them with a tablespoon of flour before folding them into the batter.
- For a richer, more decadent blondie, consider using dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar.
- If you want to add a glaze to the blondies, whisk together powdered sugar with a tablespoon or two of almond milk until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled blondies and let it set before cutting into squares.
- Store the blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- These blondies can also be frozen for longer storage. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be thawed at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.)
Calories: Approximately 250-300 per blondie
Protein: Approximately 3-4 grams per blondie
Sodium: Approximately 100-150mg per blondie
Conclusion These Spiced Vegan Pumpkin Blondies are a delightful and easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a comforting fall dessert, a vegan-friendly option for a gathering, or simply a delicious snack to enjoy at home, these blondies are sure to satisfy your cravings. The combination of pumpkin puree, warm spices, and optional chocolate chips and nuts creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and irresistible. With their moist, chewy texture and easy preparation, these blondies are a must-try for any baking enthusiast. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a batch of these delectable Spiced Vegan Pumpkin Blondies!
Five Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
Question 1: Can I use a different type of flour for these blondies?
Answer: While all-purpose flour is recommended for the best texture, you can substitute it with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version. Keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different, and you may need to adjust the amount of liquid accordingly. Almond flour or oat flour are not recommended as direct substitutes, as they will significantly alter the texture and structure of the blondies.
Question 2: What can I use instead of coconut oil?
Answer: If you prefer not to use coconut oil, you can substitute it with another neutral-flavored oil such as canola oil, vegetable oil, or melted vegan butter. The key is to use an oil that doesn’t have a strong flavor that will overpower the other ingredients. Make sure the oil is melted before using it to ensure it mixes evenly with the other wet ingredients.
Question 3: Can I make these blondies without chocolate chips or nuts?
Answer: Absolutely! The vegan chocolate chips and nuts are optional additions and can be omitted if you prefer. If you’re not a fan of chocolate or nuts, you can leave them out altogether without affecting the overall structure or flavor of the blondies. Alternatively, you can substitute them with other mix-ins such as dried cranberries, chopped dates, or a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds.
Question 4: How do I prevent the blondies from becoming too dry?
Answer: To prevent the blondies from becoming too dry, it’s important to measure the ingredients accurately and avoid overbaking them. Use a light hand when mixing the batter and stop as soon as the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tougher, drier blondie. Also, be sure to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
Question 5: Can I double the recipe to make a larger batch?
Answer: Yes, you can easily double the recipe to make a larger batch of blondies. Simply double all the ingredients and bake the blondies in a larger baking pan, such as a 9×13-inch pan. Keep in mind that the baking time may need to be adjusted, so be sure to check for doneness periodically.
