Name: Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 26 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup butter (softened); ¾ cup brown sugar; ¼ cup cane sugar; 6 tbsp pumpkin; 1 tsp vanilla; 1 ⅓ cup + 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking soda; ½ tsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice; 1 tsp cinnamon; ⅔ cup chocolate chips

Jump to Recipe · Leave a Review

These soft-baked Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are more than just a seasonal treat; they’re a delightful experience for your senses. Imagine the warm aroma of spices wafting through your kitchen as you scoop your cookie dough onto a baking sheet. The vibrant orange hue of the pumpkin splashed into the mix adds a cozy, festive feel that instantly brightens any chilly autumn day. Each bite invites you into a world of soft, chewy goodness, where melty chocolate chips meet the comforting warmth of pumpkin and fall spices. This recipe brings to mind my childhood memories of baking with my grandmother, who always said cookies should be as sweet as the love shared with family. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering or just an afternoon snack, these cookies are bound to create new memories and joy.

Table of Contents

Why This Is The Best Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
Tips for Success
Serve It With
How To Store & Reheat Leftovers
Tips & Variations
Recipe FAQs
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Perfect for celebrating the cozy months of fall, these cookies symbolize all that is comforting and heartwarming. If you’re looking for a recipe that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and spiced, let me introduce you to this delectable variation that seamlessly combines pumpkin and chocolate in the most delightful way possible. Trust me, after your first bite, you’ll find it hard to resist going back for another!

Why This Is The Best Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

When it comes to baking, nothing beats simplicity and flavor — and this recipe checks both boxes beautifully! In just about 25 minutes, from prep to baking, you can have a warm batch of cookies that’s sure to impress everyone. The flavor profile is incredibly inviting; think creamy pumpkin beautifully complemented by a hint of spice, all laced with gooey, melted chocolate. And let’s not forget, they’re pleasing to the eye, making them an inviting addition to any table. These cookies are versatile too — whether you want them for breakfast, a sweet afternoon snack, or dessert after dinner, they perfectly fit any occasion. Plus, they can easily be adapted for dietary needs, making them a go-to for family gatherings!

Ingredients You’ll Need

½ cup butter (softened): Using softened butter helps create a wonderfully creamy base for the cookies, ensuring they’re easy to mix and yielding that tender texture we crave.
¾ cup brown sugar: The molasses in brown sugar adds richness and moisture, enhancing the cookies’ overall flavor and creating a slight chewiness.
¼ cup cane sugar: This adds a bit of crunch and sweetness, perfectly balancing the rich flavor of the brown sugar.
6 tbsp pumpkin: Always opt for pure pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling. The puree is pure pumpkin goodness that brings moisture and a subtle flavor.
1 tsp vanilla: The warm, sweet notes of vanilla enhance the cookie’s flavor profile, rounding it out beautifully.
1 ⅓ cup + 2 tbsp all-purpose flour: Flour provides structure to your cookies. If you want a gluten-free option, almond flour works well, but you may need to adjust the amount.
1 tsp baking soda: This leavener gives the cookies a nice lift, helping them to rise as they bake.
½ tsp baking powder: Works in tandem with the baking soda for an extra boost in fluffiness.
½ tsp salt: Salt amplifies all the flavors, making every taste pop and balancing out the sweetness.
2 tsp pumpkin pie spice: This blend of spices (typically cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice) captures the essence of fall in every bite.
1 tsp cinnamon: A touch more cinnamon adds warmth and richness, making the cookies extra flavorful.
⅔ cup chocolate chips: Use semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for the perfect touch of sweetness that contrasts the pumpkin flavor. You can also try milk chocolate for a sweeter treat.

How to Make Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and to ensure they bake evenly. This simple step is crucial; not only does it save on cleanup, but it helps maintain the cookies’ shape.

Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and cane sugar using an electric mixer. Mix until creamy and fluffy — typically about 2-3 minutes. This process incorporates air into the batter, resulting in lighter cookies that won’t become dense after baking. Once combined, add in the pumpkin and vanilla, and stir until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and slightly fluffy, with a beautiful golden hue.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon. This step ensures that the leaveners and spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour. Gradually pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. It’s essential not to overmix at this stage; a few specks of flour left in the batter are okay.

Fold in the Chocolate Chips

With a gentle hand, add the chocolate chips into the cookie dough using a spatula or spoon. This ensures the chocolate is evenly distributed throughout the mixture without breaking any chips apart. Take a moment to admire the colorful flecks of chocolate peeking through the rich pumpkin dough; it’s the best part!

Shape the Cookies

Use your hands to roll the dough into 18 evenly-sized balls, spacing them at least two inches apart on your baking sheet. Depending on the size of your sheet and your oven, you might need to bake the cookies in batches. Be careful not to overcrowd, as this can impact how they spread during baking.

Bake Until Golden

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10-11 minutes, or until they start to look set and the edges are just a light golden brown. As soon as they come out of the oven, lift the pan about one inch above the counter and drop it down gently. You’ll want to repeat this 3-4 times; this is known as the pan-banging method, which helps flatten the cookies slightly while crunching the edges characteristic of great cookies.

Cool and Enjoy

Allow your Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies to cool on the baking sheet for just a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This will help maintain their shape while they cool completely and allows the flavor to develop further. Once they’re cool, they’re ready to enjoy!

Tips for Success

Check for fresh ingredients: Make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh for the best rise.
Use room temperature butter: This helps to cream effectively, leading to a better texture in your cookies.
Do not overmix: This can create a tough cookie. Mix until just combined!
Monitor your baking time: All ovens are different; keep an eye on your cookies to prevent overbaking!
Chill the dough (optional): If time allows, refrigerating the dough for 30 minutes can enhance the flavors and help the cookies maintain their shape.
Adjust sweetness: Feel free to add more or less sugar according to your sweetness preference.

Serve It With

These cookies shine on their own, but they could be even better with a few embellishments. Serve them warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra touch of indulgence. For an added twist, try pairing them with freshly brewed coffee or a chai latte to enhance those cozy fall flavors. Consider placing a few on a cute dessert platter alongside your favorite fall fruits, like slices of crisp apples or juicy pears for a lovely brunch spread.

How To Store & Reheat Leftovers

Room Temperature: Your cookies can stay out for about 2 days in an airtight container. They’ll remain soft, perfect for afternoon snacking.
Refrigeration: For longer freshness, store in the fridge for up to a week in a sealed container.
Freezing: These cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top bag. Just remember to label the bag!
Reheating: To refresh from frozen, let them thaw in the fridge and then pop in a 350°F oven for about 5-10 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 15 seconds for a quick treat.
Quality Notes: Be aware that freezing can change the texture slightly, but reheating helps bring back some of that gooey goodness.

Tips & Variations

There are plenty of ways to put your unique spin on these Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies! For a nutty twist, consider adding pecans or walnuts for extra crunch. If you’re feeling adventurous, try substituting the pumpkin pie spice with chai spice for a different kick. For a healthier alternative, you can use a sugar substitute or almond flour for gluten-free cookies. Explore seasonal variations by adding dried cranberries for a pop of red or even white chocolate chips for a sweeter flavor. All variations maintain that core love for fall, so feel free to experiment!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you’re using fresh pumpkin, be sure to cook it down and puree it until it’s smooth. Dehydrated or overly watery pumpkin might affect the dough’s consistency, so it’s important to get it just right.

Can I make these cookies vegan?
You can substitute the butter for a plant-based alternative and use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water equals one egg). These substitutions work well, and the flavor remains delightful!

Why did my cookies turn out cakey instead of chewy?
If your cookies come out cakey, it could be due to over-mixing the dough or incorporating too much flour. To achieve that soft and chewy texture, mix until just combined and be careful with measuring flour accurately.

Can I add other mix-ins?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative — add in white chocolate chips, toffee bits, or even crushed graham crackers for a unique adaptation. Just keep in mind that changing the ingredients may slightly impact baking time or texture.

In summary, this recipe for Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies beautifully captures the essence of autumn with its comforting flavors, appealing appearance, and delightful aroma. I encourage you to embrace your creativity and experiment with this versatile recipe. Whether enjoyed on a cozy night in or shared with loved ones, may these cookies create lasting memories and flavorful moments. Happy baking!

More Desserts & Appetizers Recipes

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card