pumpkin chocolate chip cookies

There’s something truly magical about a warm, spiced cookie. My recipe for pumpkin chocolate chip cookies brings you that cozy, autumn feeling any time of year. These treats are wonderfully moist and packed with those classic fall spices we all adore.

They are perfect with a steaming mug of tea. Plus, they store beautifully for a few days, making them ideal for afternoon snacks! Everyone always asks for the recipe.

Why I Love This Recipe

These pumpkin chocolate chip cookies are my go-to for good reason.

They are remarkably easy to whip up. You get fantastic flavor quickly. They’re always a crowd-pleaser. Homemade goodness is so comforting. They bake up soft and chewy. Truly, the best of fall in every bite!

What makes these pumpkin chocolate chip cookies so special? It’s the harmonious blend of warming spices and sweet chocolate. They create a cookie that’s both comforting and deliciously decadent.

Let’s look at what goes into these delightful autumn treats. Of course, you’ll need the star: pumpkin puree. This makes them wonderfully moist. All-purpose flour provides the perfect structure. Baking soda helps them rise just right. Cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger bring that classic fall aroma. Salt balances the sweetness. Unsalted butter and both granulated and brown sugars create that tender, chewy texture. Eggs bind everything together. Vanilla extract adds a touch of warmth. And finally, semi-sweet chocolate chips are essential for that chocolatey burst in every bite. Remember, you can find the exact amounts in the printable recipe card at the very end!

Substitutions and Tips

• No pumpkin puree? You can try unsweetened applesauce. It’s a decent swap for moisture.
• White chocolate chips are a lovely alternative. Try them for a different flavor profile.
• For a spiced kick, add a pinch of cloves or allspice. It really enhances the fall flavor.
• Don’t have all the spices? Just use more cinnamon. It’s the primary flavor driver.
• Store leftover dough wrapped well. You can also freeze it for later batches.

How to Make pumpkin chocolate chip cookies

Making these perfect pumpkin chocolate chip cookies is a breeze. We’ll walk through it step-by-step. You’ll have warm, spiced cookies before you know it. Follow these simple instructions.

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Station

First, preheat your oven. Set it to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets. Parchment paper makes cleanup easy. This is a crucial first step.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

Grab a medium bowl. Whisk together your flour and leavening agents. Add the spices like cinnamon. Don’t forget the nutmeg and ginger. A little salt balances sweetness. Whisk until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, work your magic. Use an electric mixer. Beat softened butter until creamy. Add granulated sugar next. Then, beat in packed brown sugar. Cream them until the mixture is light and fluffy. This creates a tender cookie base.

Step 4: Incorporate Wet Ingredients

Now for the pumpkin! Beat in the pumpkin puree. Add your large egg. A splash of vanilla extract enhances flavor. Mix until just combined. Don’t worry if it looks a bit separated. This is normal for pumpkin dough.

Step 5: Mix Dough Together

Gradually add the dry flour mix. Add it to the wet pumpkin mixture. Mix on low speed. Stop mixing when it’s just combined. Don’t overmix the dough. Overmixing can make cookies tough.

Step 6: Add the Chocolatey Goodness

Time for the best part! Fold in the chocolate chips. Use a spatula for this. Gently mix them throughout the dough. Ensure they are evenly distributed for maximum chocolatey impact.

Step 7: Shape the Cookies

Drop rounded tablespoons of dough. Place them onto the prepared baking sheets. Leave about 2 inches between each cookie. These fall cookies don’t spread much. You want to give them space to bake evenly.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 15 to 18 minutes. Watch for firm edges. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. This indicates they are perfectly baked. Avoid overbaking for best texture.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet. Do this for a few minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack. Let them cool completely. Enjoy your delicious pumpkin chocolate chip cookies!

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How to Store pumpkin chocolate chip cookies

Once your delightful pumpkin chocolate chip cookies have cooled completely, storing them is key. This keeps them tasting fresh. You can store them in an airtight container. A cookie tin works well too. Store them at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about 3 days. If you plan on keeping them longer, the refrigerator is an option. Though this might make them a bit firmer. You can also freeze them. Place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to 3 months. Simply thaw them on the counter when you crave a treat. These spiced cookies are perfect for impromptu gatherings.

Tips for Success

• Use good quality pumpkin puree. Avoid pumpkin pie filling.
• Don’t skip chilling the dough. It helps prevent excessive spreading.
• Ensure your butter is softened, not melted. This aids creaminess.
• Measure flour correctly. Spoon it into the cup, then level it.
• Bake one sheet at a time for even heat. This ensures perfectly baked pumpkin chocolate chip cookies.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Large and medium mixing bowls for ingredients.
• Electric mixer for creaming butter and sugar.
• Whisk for dry ingredients.
• Spatula for folding in chips.
• Baking sheets for cookies.
• Parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Wire rack for cooling.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair these pumpkin chocolate chip cookies with a glass of cold milk.
• Enjoy them with a warm cup of spiced apple cider.
• Serve them as a delightful dessert after a fall meal.
• They are perfect for an afternoon tea or coffee break.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the pumpkin chocolate chip cookies dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough for these pumpkin chocolate chip cookies up to 2 days in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. This actually helps the flavors meld even more!

What kind of pumpkin puree should I use for these cookies?

Reach for pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. The pie filling has added spices and sugar. Pure pumpkin puree gives you the best control over flavor. It ensures your spiced cookies have the perfect taste.

Why did my pumpkin chocolate chip cookies not spread?

These fall cookies are designed to be thicker cookies. They don’t spread much naturally. Ensure your butter is softened correctly. Also, avoid over-flouring the dough. This helps maintain a good texture.

How can I make my pumpkin chocolate chip cookies chewier?

For chewier chocolate chip cookies, try reducing the baking time slightly. Bake them until the edges are just set. They will continue to firm up as they cool. Using brown sugar also contributes to a chewier texture.