Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan, then line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal later.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, stirring frequently until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma. Allow it to cool slightly.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the brown butter and light brown sugar, mixing until they are well incorporated.
4. Add the egg, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract to the bowl, stirring until smooth.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves.
6. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. If desired, fold in the white chocolate chips or nuts at this stage.
7. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares and serving.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

These Brown Butter Pumpkin Blondies are delectable on their own, but you can elevate the experience further. Serve them warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. Pair with a spiced chai or a pumpkin spice latte to set the fall mood. You could even drizzle with caramel sauce or sprinkle with sea salt to enhance the flavors.

How to Store & Freeze

To keep your Brown Butter Pumpkin Blondies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before enjoying. Always remember to practice safe food handling and ensure leftovers remain sealed to minimize contamination.

Tricks for Success

• Be patient while browning the butter; keep stirring to prevent it from burning.
• Let the butter cool slightly before mixing it with the sugar to avoid cooking the egg.
• If you prefer a chewy texture over a cakey one, avoid overmixing the batter once the dry ingredients are added.
• Sprinkling a pinch of sea salt on top before baking can enhance the flavor beautifully.

Creative Twists

Feel free to customize these blondies! Consider adding nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch, or swapping out spices to include allspice or cardamom for a unique flavor. You can also experiment with mix-ins like dried cranberries or coconut to switch up the taste profile. For a gluten-free version, substitute flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.

FAQs

How long does it take to prepare and bake these blondies?
Prep time is about 15 minutes, and baking takes 25-30 minutes. Overall, you’ll have delicious blondies ready in under an hour!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just ensure that you properly cook and puree the pumpkin, as canned is often more convenient.

How should I reheat leftovers?
You can microwave a square for about 10-15 seconds to enjoy them warm. Just be careful not to overheat, as they can become tough.

Are these blondies freezer friendly?
Yes, these blondies freeze beautifully! Wrap them tightly and store them for up to 2 months.