Blondies, the wonderful counterpart to brownies, are a dessert not to be overlooked. This variation - which I call blondie(ish) because even with its ingredients, it tastes surprisingly more like a blondie than something overly pumpkiny or nutty - is vegan, gluten-free, grain-free, paleo and refined sugar-free. And and though it does have nuts, it is free of other major allergens. But for all that's not in it, it is full of so much -- rich deliciousness, healthy fats, just enough sweetness, moist texture.Sweet enough for dessert, but packing a nutritious punch. Cut the finished product into small squares for a bite-sized healthy treat (and don't be surprised if you can't help but eat a few) that does the trick morning, noon or night. Serve warm with your favorite non-dairy vanilla ice cream, or some banana "ice cream", or chill in the fridge or freezer for a fudgier texture (and for these to keep longer).
Recipe: One-Bowl Pumpkin Blondie(ish) Bars
Ingredients
2/3 cup pumpkin puree
1 medium banana (the riper, the better), well mashed
3/4 cup almond or blended nut butter (try Nuttzo brand)
1/4 cup coconut flour
1/4 cup pure maple syrup
1/2 tbsp vanilla extract
2 tsp pumpkin pie spice, plus a few shakes of cinnamon
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp baking powder
big pinch of himalayan salt
large handful of mini dark/vegan chocolate chips
Instructions
Preheat oven to 365F.
Grease an 8x8in square baking dish with coconut oil or vegan butter; you can also line with parchment.
Combine all ingredients except chocolate chips into a bowl, and stir until well-combined and smooth. If the mixture is dry, add a little non-dairy milk 1/2 tbsp at a time. If it's too liquid, add a little more coconut flour, 1/2 tbsp at a time.
Fold in chocolate chips.
Pour batter into baking dish as evenly as possible, smoothing with a spoon or spatula.
Bake for 30-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Remove from oven once done, and let cool for at least 30 minute in the tray.
Cut into small squares (it will be a bit soft/gooey) and devour!
After 1 day, store any leftovers in the fridge. Also great frozen.
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