chocolate pumpkin bars.

These chocolatey pumpkin bars have long been one of my family's favorite snacks. They're perfect for a mid-afternoon snack or for any celebration. The last time I made them was for my friend's birthday...they're her favorite, too.

chocolate pumpkin bars
(recipe adapted from Nick Jr. Family magazine...ha!)

Ingredients:
1 cup all purpose flour
1 cup whole wheat flour
3/4 cup sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 large eggs, beaten
1 can (15 oz) pumpkin
1/2 cup canola oil
1/4 cup low-fat milk
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

Note: The recipe originally calls for 1 cup of pecans (very finely chopped) so you can add that in during the second step if you wish, but I personally like them better without nuts.

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Lightly oil a 15-inch-by-10-inch-by-1-inch rimmed baking pan with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
2. Whisk together flours, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, combine eggs, pumpkin, canola oil, and milk. Add to the dry mixture along with the chocolate chips and stir.
4. Spread batter evenly in the prepared pan and bake for 25 minutes, or until a wooden toothpick inserted in the center of the batter comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack. Cut into squares.

Enjoy!

Kendall