Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Bread & Muffin Mix is a seasonal fan favorite, but did you know you can easily upgrade it into rich, brownie-like pumpkin bars? This hack takes the traditional pumpkin bread mix and turns it into an indulgent, fudgy treat that’s perfect for fall. Read on!
Why We Love This
This pumpkin bread mix hack is the perfect way to combine the comforting warmth of pumpkin spice with the decadence of brownies. With a few simple tweaks, you can create a dessert that’s rich, moist, and full of fall flavors, without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s the best of both worlds—pumpkin spice and chocolatey goodness—all from one box!
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 12g
- Carbs: 40g
- Sugar: 25g
- Protein: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to transform your Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Bread Mix into irresistible brownie bars:
- 1 box Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Bread & Muffin Mix
- 1/2 cup melted butter or vegetable oil
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder (for a rich, chocolate flavor)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional for extra fudginess)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice (optional, for an extra fall spice kick)
Preparation Instructions
- Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Mix the batter: In a large bowl, combine the Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Bread Mix, melted butter, eggs, and water. Stir until just combined.
- Add the cocoa: Stir in the cocoa powder to give the mix that rich, chocolatey flavor. If you love extra indulgence, fold in some chocolate chips and a teaspoon of vanilla extract for added depth.
- Spice it up: For a more pronounced fall flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. The brownies should have a moist, fudgy texture.
- Cool and enjoy: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares. Serve as-is, or top with whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Versatility
These brownie-like pumpkin bars are perfect for just about any fall occasion. Serve them as a dessert at a Thanksgiving gathering, bring them to a fall bake sale, or enjoy them as a weeknight treat with a cup of hot cocoa or spiced tea. You can even freeze them for later, making them a convenient grab-and-go snack.
What Customers Say
Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Bread Mix has long been a fan favorite for its ease of use and comforting fall flavors. Many who have tried this brownie hack rave about how it combines the perfect amount of sweetness with pumpkin spice goodness.
Customers love the rich texture and the fact that it’s an easy upgrade for an already great product. “I didn’t think Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Bread Mix could get any better, but these brownie bars are a game-changer,” says one fan. Another shopper commented, “The chocolate and pumpkin spice combo is absolutely addictive!”
Conclusion/Final Say
If you’re a pumpkin spice lover or simply a fan of quick and easy dessert hacks, this Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Bread Mix upgrade is a must-try. By adding a little cocoa and some chocolate chips, you can transform a beloved fall staple into fudgy pumpkin brownie bars that will impress any crowd.
Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or just yourself, this dessert hack is guaranteed to become your new favorite fall treat!
