Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
The Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe is the ultimate Autumn treat, blending classic chocolate chip cookies with the warm flavors of pumpkin and spice. These cookies are perfect for cozy gatherings, festive parties, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea. The addition of pumpkin puree not only enhances flavor but also gives these cookies a delightful soft texture, making them a standout dessert for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and chocolate chips creates a unique taste that’s both comforting and indulgent.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Versatile Treat: Ideal for Thanksgiving, Halloween parties, or just a sweet snack at home.
- Soft Texture: Pumpkin puree keeps these cookies moist and chewy, ensuring they stay fresh longer.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With 50 servings in one batch, these cookies are sure to satisfy friends and family alike!
Tools and Preparation
To make your baking experience smooth, gather the essential tools you’ll need before starting. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating delicious Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies without interruption.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Whisk
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients efficiently without spills.
- Electric mixer: Helps achieve the perfect creamy texture when blending butter and sugars.
- Parchment paper: Prevents cookies from sticking to the baking sheets for easy cleanup.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 Tbsp pumpkin pie spice
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Add-ins
- 1 ½ cups chocolate chips
How to Make Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F. While it’s heating up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prepare for your cookie dough.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until combined.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
Using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Add in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract. Beat again until everything is well combined.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix just until smooth; do not overmix.
Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 7: Portion Dough
Drop 1 Tbsp of cookie dough onto each prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart. For an extra treat, top each with a few additional chocolate chips.
Step 8: Bake
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until they are golden brown around the edges. Let them cool slightly before transferring them to a cooling rack.
Enjoy your warm Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies as an irresistible Autumn delight!
How to Serve Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
These delicious Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive holiday party, serving them right can elevate the experience.
With a Glass of Milk
- A classic pairing, the creaminess of milk complements the rich flavors of the cookies perfectly.
On a Dessert Platter
- Arrange the cookies on a beautiful platter with seasonal decorations for an eye-catching display at your next gathering.
As a Snack with Coffee
- Enjoy these cookies alongside your favorite coffee or latte for a delightful afternoon treat.
Gift in a Jar
- Layer cookies in a mason jar with ribbon for a charming homemade gift that friends and family will love.
Warmed with Ice Cream
- Heat the cookies slightly and top them with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert that combines warm and cold sensations.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
To ensure your Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies turn out just right, follow these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree – Opt for fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned for a richer flavor.
- Don’t Overmix – Mix until just combined to keep the cookies soft and chewy.
- Chill the Dough – Letting the dough chill for about 30 minutes can enhance texture and flavor.
- Add Extra Spices – Consider adding cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra kick of autumn flavor.
- Adjust Baking Time – Keep an eye on them; they’re perfect when slightly golden around the edges.
- Store Properly – Keep cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies can be complemented nicely with various side dishes. Here are some tasty options to consider:
- Apple Cider – The sweet and tangy taste of apple cider pairs well with pumpkin flavors.
- Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses can balance the sweetness of the cookies, providing diverse flavors.
- Roasted Nuts – Salted roasted nuts add crunch and contrast, enhancing the overall snacking experience.
- Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad brings freshness and acidity that offsets the richness of the cookies.
- Caramel Sauce – Serve alongside warm caramel sauce for dipping, turning each bite into a decadent treat.
- Hot Cocoa – For colder days, hot cocoa serves as a cozy drink that complements the seasonal spices in the cookies.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte – Enhance those pumpkin flavors by pairing your cookies with this beloved fall beverage.
- Vanilla Yogurt – Creamy yogurt adds a refreshing touch while balancing out sweetness when enjoyed together.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:
- Using cold butter: Cold butter can lead to dense cookies. Always use softened butter for a light and fluffy texture.
- Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can toughen your cookies. Mix just until ingredients are combined for the best results.
- Skipping the parchment paper: Not using parchment can cause sticking. Always line your baking sheets for easy removal and cleanup.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Incorrect measurements can alter the cookie’s texture. Use a spoon to fluff up the flour before scooping it into your measuring cup.
- Baking at the wrong temperature: Oven temperatures vary. Always preheat your oven and consider an oven thermometer for accuracy.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- They will keep well for up to 5 days in the fridge.
Freezing Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 5 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet on low heat, cover, and warm for a couple of minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies:
How do I make my Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies soft?
To ensure soft cookies, avoid overbaking them. Take them out when they’re slightly underdone; they will continue to cook as they cool.
Can I substitute fresh pumpkin for pumpkin puree?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin, but make sure it is pureed and not too watery. Drain excess moisture if necessary.
What chocolate chips work best in these cookies?
Semi-sweet chocolate chips are most commonly used, but you can also try dark or milk chocolate chips based on your preference.
How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
To prevent spreading, chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps firm up the butter.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Absolutely! Walnuts or pecans pair wonderfully with Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies. Feel free to get creative with other mix-ins like dried cranberries.
Final Thoughts
These Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful blend of flavors that perfectly capture the essence of Autumn. They are incredibly versatile—feel free to customize them with nuts or different types of chocolate chips! It’s time to bring warmth and joy into your kitchen by trying this recipe today.
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the warmth of Autumn with these delectable Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies. This delightful recipe combines the rich flavors of pumpkin puree and chocolate chips, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Ideal for cozy gatherings or festive celebrations, these cookies are easy to make and sure to impress your family and friends. With their soft, chewy texture and inviting aroma, they are the ultimate seasonal treat that will leave everyone wanting more!
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 Tbsp pumpkin pie spice
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy.
- Mix in pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract until combined.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just mixed; fold in chocolate chips.
- Drop tablespoon-sized dough onto prepared sheets about two inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden around the edges; cool slightly before transferring to a rack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
