Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall, you’ve come to the right place! These Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are a favorite in my kitchen, and I know they’ll become a cherished recipe in yours too. Soft, chewy, and brimming with pumpkin spice goodness, these cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy evening at home or a festive family gathering. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up—no chilling or fancy equipment required!

I love how these cookies balance the warm flavors of pumpkin with rich chocolate. They fill your home with an irresistible aroma that makes everyone eager to dive in. Trust me; once you take a bite, you’ll understand why this recipe is so special!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: No need for chilling dough or complicated steps—mix and bake in no time!
• Chewy Texture: These cookies have that perfect soft and chewy consistency that melts in your mouth.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the combo of pumpkin and chocolate; kids especially can’t resist them!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and freeze it for fresh cookies anytime.
• Fall Flavor: These cookies are the ultimate seasonal treat, celebrating all the cozy flavors of autumn.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating these delicious Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies is a breeze with simple, wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup cold unsalted butter
• 2/3 cup Libby’s Pumpkin Puree (room temperature)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar (packed)
• 2 large egg yolks (room temperature)
• 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 2/3 cup + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (See notes below for measuring)
• 2 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin spice
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1 cup finely chopped chocolate bar or chocolate chips

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it can be! Feel free to customize it to suit your taste or pantry staples. Here are some fun variations:

• Add Nuts: Throw in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Change Up the Chocolate: Use white chocolate chips or even butterscotch chips for a different flavor twist.
• Spice It Up: Add extra spices like cinnamon or nutmeg if you’re a spice lover!
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C) and lining two baking trays with parchment paper. This step ensures that your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick!

Step 2: Brown the Butter

In a large stainless steel pan, brown your cold butter over medium heat. Watch as it foams and crackles—this is normal! Stir occasionally until it turns golden brown and smells nutty. This process adds depth of flavor to your cookies. Once browned, cool it down in the fridge until it reaches around 75°F.

Step 3: Prepare the Pumpkin Puree

Spread out your pumpkin puree on a plate and press paper towels into it to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial because too much liquid could make the cookies cakey instead of chewy.

Step 4: Mix Sugars and Butter

Once your cooled butter is ready, whisk in both sugars for about one minute until combined. This creates that lovely base for your cookie dough.

Step 5: Add Egg Yolks and Vanilla

Next, whisk in your egg yolks, vanilla extract, and dried pumpkin puree until everything is well incorporated. This not only adds flavor but also helps bind all ingredients together.

Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gently fold in your flour mixture along with pumpkin spice, baking soda, salt, and chocolate chips until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; we want those tender cookies!

Step 7: Scoop the Dough

Using a cookie scoop (about three tablespoons), roll each piece of dough between your palms before placing them on the prepared trays—give them some space as they will spread while baking.

Step 8: Bake Away!

Bake one tray at a time for about 9-13 minutes or until edges are golden but centers remain slightly underbaked. This keeps them soft! As soon as they come out of the oven, use a cookie cutter to shape them nicely before cooling.

Step 9: Enjoy!

Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before indulging in their deliciousness! Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days—or freeze some dough balls for later enjoyment!

Now you’re all set to make these delightful Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies! I can’t wait for you to try them. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Making these cookies can be a delightful experience, and with a few helpful tips, you’ll achieve cookie perfection!

• Use cold butter: Starting with cold butter helps create that soft and chewy texture we all crave without making the cookies too cakey.

• Don’t skip drying the pumpkin: Removing excess moisture from the pumpkin puree ensures that the cookies won’t spread too much while baking, keeping them thick and chewy.

• Monitor baking time closely: Every oven is different! Keep an eye on your cookies during the last minutes of baking to catch them at the perfect moment—golden edges but a slightly underbaked center for optimal softness.

• Chill the dough if needed: If you live in a warm environment or want to prepare ahead, chilling the dough for 30 minutes can enhance flavor and help control spreading.

• Experiment with chocolate: Feel free to mix different types of chocolate or even add some nuts for extra crunch. Dark chocolate pairs beautifully with pumpkin spice flavors!

How to Serve Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

These pumpkin chocolate chip cookies are not just delicious; they also make for a beautiful presentation when served in various ways that suit any occasion!

Garnishes

• A sprinkle of sea salt: A light dusting of flaky sea salt right before serving enhances the sweetness of the cookies and adds a gourmet touch.

• Drizzle of melted chocolate: Melt some additional chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled cookies for an elegant finish that looks as good as it tastes.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with warm pumpkin cookies, creating a delightful contrast in textures.

• Spiced chai tea: A warm cup of spiced chai complements the cozy flavors of pumpkin spice, making for an inviting fall treat pairing.

• Caramel sauce: Serve with a small dish of caramel sauce for dipping; its rich flavor will enhance every bite of your cookies.

• Fresh fruit platter: A colorful assortment of fresh fruits like apples and pears provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the cookies.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your pumpkin chocolate chip cookies are sure to impress family and friends this fall! Enjoy baking and sharing these delightful treats.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time, ensuring you have delicious cookies ready whenever a craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days.
• If you prefer softer cookies, place a slice of bread in the container to help maintain moisture.
• For longer freshness, consider refrigerating the cookies, but they may lose some of their chewy texture.

Freezing

• Freeze cookie dough balls by placing them on a baking sheet first. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Label the bag with the date and type of cookies for easy identification later.
• Frozen cookie dough can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating

• To reheat baked cookies, place them on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, warm them in an oven preheated to 350°F (180°C) for about 5 minutes to restore their fresh-baked taste.

FAQs

If you have questions about making these delicious Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies, you’re not alone!

Can I use canned pumpkin for Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Yes! Canned pumpkin puree is perfect for this recipe. Just ensure you drain it well to avoid excess moisture.

How do I make my Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies chewier?

To achieve chewier cookies, be sure not to overmix the dough and underbake them slightly. The edges should be golden brown while the center remains soft.

What can I substitute for butter in Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use coconut oil or vegan butter as alternatives in equal amounts.

Can I add nuts to my Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in chopped walnuts or pecans along with the chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these delightful Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies! They’re not just treats; they encapsulate the warmth and coziness of fall. Whether you share them with family or savor them yourself, each bite is sure to bring a smile. Happy baking!