Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the warmth of autumn with the sweetness of chocolate, then look no further! These Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are an absolute favorite in my home. There’s something so comforting about biting into one of these soft, moist cookies, especially when the weather turns crisp. They’re perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, and trust me, they’ll vanish faster than you can say pumpkin spice!

What makes this recipe even more special is how simple it is to whip up. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, these cookies bring a smile to everyone’s face. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making these scrumptious treats!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This recipe comes together in just about 25 minutes, making it perfect for those last-minute sweet cravings.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike adore the combination of pumpkin and chocolate—perfect for any gathering!
• Moist & Delicious: The pumpkin puree ensures that each cookie stays wonderfully moist while delivering tons of flavor.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy these cookies as a dessert or snack; they fit any occasion beautifully!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these delicious cookies, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll gather:

For the Cookie Base

• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1 large egg (or 1/4 cup applesauce)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup + 2 Tablespoons canola oil (for extra fluffy, omit 2 tablespoons canola oil)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (or pumpkin spice)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 cups all-purpose flour

For the Chocolatey Goodness

• 1 1/3 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Variations

One of the best things about these cookies is how flexible they are! You can easily customize them to suit your taste preferences. Here are some fun variations you might enjoy:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with spices like nutmeg or ginger to give your cookies a little extra warmth.
• Make It Healthier: Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a heartier cookie.
• Dairy-Free Option: Swap out the chocolate chips for dairy-free ones if you’re avoiding dairy.

How to Make Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial because it ensures your cookies bake evenly. While the oven heats up, line your cookie sheets with parchment paper or give them a quick spray with non-stick spray.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, egg (or applesauce), both sugars, canola oil, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until everything is blended well. This mixture forms the flavorful base of our cookies, so don’t rush through this step!

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the salt, baking soda, baking powder, and flour. Once combined, gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients. Stir gently until just mixed—overmixing can lead to tough cookies!

Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips

Now it’s time for the best part! Fold in those delicious semi-sweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough. The melted pockets of chocolate will make every bite divine.

Step 5: Scoop and Bake

Using a small scoop or rounded tablespoon measure, drop about 12 mounds of dough onto each prepared cookie sheet. Remember that these cookies will spread slightly while baking.

Step 6: Bake Away!

Place your cookie sheets in the oven and bake for about 10-13 minutes until they are just set and lightly golden around the edges. Keep an eye on them; nobody likes burnt cookies!

Step 7: Cool Down

Once done, remove them from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack before diving in. The cooling process helps them firm up just right.

With this simple yet delightful recipe for Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies, you’re sure to impress friends and family alike! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Baking is all about enjoying the process, and these tips will help you achieve the best results!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Mixing warm or room temperature ingredients helps create a smoother batter and ensures even baking, leading to perfectly fluffy cookies.

• Don’t overmix: Once you’ve combined the dry and wet ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft and chewy ones.

• Chill the dough (if time allows): If you have a bit more time, chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking can improve the texture and flavor of your cookies. It helps prevent excessive spreading during baking.

• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary in temperature. Keep an eye on your cookies during the last few minutes of baking; they should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.

• Store properly: To keep your cookies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just make sure they are fully cooled before freezing!

How to Serve Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

These delightful cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive autumn celebration. Here are some creative ways to present them!

Garnishes

• Sprinkling of sea salt: A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top enhances the sweetness of the chocolate chips and adds a lovely contrast.

• Chocolate drizzle: Melt some semi-sweet chocolate chips and drizzle over the cooled cookies for an elegant touch that looks as good as it tastes.

Side Dishes

• Pumpkin Spice Latte: This seasonal favorite pairs perfectly with pumpkin chocolate chip cookies. The warm spices complement each other beautifully, making it a cozy pairing.

• Vanilla Coconut Ice Cream: A scoop of this creamy ice cream adds a delightful contrast to the warm cookies, creating a comforting dessert experience.

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with apples, pears, and citrus offers a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the cookies while bringing out their autumnal essence.

• Spiced Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai tea enhance the flavors of pumpkin and chocolate, making it a wonderful beverage choice alongside these delicious treats.

Enjoy making these Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies and savor every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time, making them a sweet treat ready whenever you want. Here’s how to store and enjoy your cookies even longer.

Storing Leftovers

• Place cooled cookies in an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For extended freshness, keep them in the refrigerator.

Freezing

• Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Layer cookies between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; label with the date for reference.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place frozen cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Enjoy fresh, soft cookies as if they were just baked!

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about these delightful cookies!

How can I make Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies healthier?

You can substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or use less sugar without sacrificing taste. Enjoy experimenting!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned in my Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Absolutely! Just ensure that your fresh pumpkin is cooked and pureed until smooth. This will yield similar results to canned pumpkin puree.

What is the best way to store Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Can I freeze Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Yes, these cookies freeze wonderfully! Just ensure they are fully cooled and layered with parchment paper before storing in a freezer-safe container.

What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?

You can use 1/4 cup of applesauce as a great egg substitute. It keeps the cookies moist while adding a hint of sweetness!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking these Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies! They carry the warmth of autumn and are sure to be a hit with family and friends alike. Baking is all about sharing love, and there’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cookies filling your home. Enjoy making these treats, and don’t hesitate to try variations that suit your taste. Happy baking!