Healthy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
Healthy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful fall treat that everyone can enjoy. These cookies combine the rich flavors of pumpkin and chocolate without using processed or refined sugars, making them a wholesome choice for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or simply craving a sweet snack, these cookies are sure to please. The unique feature of this recipe is the use of coconut sugar and coconut oil, which adds flavor and nutrition.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy Ingredients: Made with whole ingredients, these cookies are a guilt-free indulgence.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps make this recipe perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Versatile Treat: Ideal for parties, snacks, or as a cozy dessert on chilly evenings.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and chocolate creates a warm, delicious flavor profile.
- No Processed Sugar: Enjoy sweetness from natural sources without compromising your health goals.
Tools and Preparation
To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these Healthy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or baking mat
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or electric mixer
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Provides ample space to combine ingredients thoroughly for even flavor.
- Baking sheet: Ensures proper heat distribution while baking your cookies to perfection.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Guarantees accurate ingredient amounts for consistent results every time.
Ingredients
Healthy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are a decadent fall treat made with whole ingredients and no processed or refined sugar and no butter!
Ingredients:
– 1 Cup Canned Pumpkin
– 1 Cup Coconut Sugar
– 1/2 Cup Coconut Oil
– 1 Egg
– 1 tbsp Vanilla Extract
– 2 Cups White Whole Wheat Flour
– 2 tsp Baking Powder
– 1 Tsp Ground Cinnamon
– 1/2 Tsp Pumpkin Pie Spice
– 1/2 Tsp Fine Sea Salt
– 1 1/2 Cups Chocolate Chips
How to Make Healthy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a baking mat to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl:
1. Add canned pumpkin, coconut sugar, coconut oil, vanilla extract, and egg.
2. Mix until smooth using a whisk or electric mixer.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl:
1. Stir together white whole wheat flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and fine sea salt.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Add the dry mixture to the wet mixture:
1. Mix just until combined to avoid over-mixing.
2. Stir in the chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed.
Step 5: Shape Cookies
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet:
1. Space them about 2 inches apart.
2. Optionally, add extra chocolate chips on top.
Step 6: Bake Cookies
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-11 minutes:
1. The cookies are done when a toothpick comes out clean.
2. Allow them to cool on the pan for 2 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
Enjoy your freshly baked Healthy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies!
How to Serve Healthy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
Serving Healthy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies is a delightful experience that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or simply indulging at home, these cookies can be paired with various accompaniments for an even more enjoyable treat.
With Milk
- Pair your cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic combination that enhances the flavors of both.
On a Dessert Platter
- Arrange the cookies on a colorful dessert platter with other autumn treats like mini pies or caramel apples for a seasonal display.
As Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Sandwich a scoop of vanilla or pumpkin ice cream between two cookies for a delicious twist on the traditional cookie experience.
With Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy these cookies with your favorite coffee or herbal tea to create a cozy afternoon snack.
Topped with Nut Butter
- Spread almond or peanut butter on top of each cookie for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition.
How to Perfect Healthy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
Perfecting your Healthy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies is essential for achieving that ideal texture and flavor. Here are some tips to help you bake the best cookies possible.
- Use fresh pumpkin: Fresh pumpkin puree enhances the flavor compared to canned options.
- Chill the dough: Letting the dough chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes can improve the texture and prevent spreading.
- Check baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies during baking; they should be soft in the center when pulled from the oven.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust spices like cinnamon and nutmeg to suit your taste preferences.
- Store properly: Keep any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Add nuts: Incorporating walnuts or pecans can add crunch and additional flavor dimensions.
Best Side Dishes for Healthy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
Pairing side dishes with your Healthy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies can elevate your snack time. Here are some great options that complement these delicious treats perfectly.
- Apple Slices: Crisp apple slices provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
- Cheese Platter: A mix of cheeses like brie and cheddar adds savory notes that balance the flavors.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling some warm caramel sauce over the cookies makes them even more decadent.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: This seasonal drink pairs perfectly, enhancing the pumpkin flavors in your cookies.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fruits for a nutritious side that complements sweet treats.
- Roasted Nuts: A small bowl of roasted almonds or pecans adds crunch and health benefits alongside your cookies.
- Hot Cocoa: Make a cozy pairing by serving these cookies with a cup of rich hot cocoa, perfect for chilly days.
- Chili Soup: For something savory, serve these alongside a warm bowl of chili as part of an autumn meal experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Healthy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Skipping the Parchment Paper: Not lining your baking sheet can lead to cookies sticking. Always use parchment paper for easy removal.
- Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can create tough cookies. Stir just until combined to keep them soft and chewy.
- Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Using incorrect amounts of flour or sugar can ruin the texture. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
- Baking at the Wrong Temperature: An oven that’s too hot can burn cookies. Always preheat to 350°F as specified in the recipe.
- Ignoring Cooling Time: Letting cookies cool on the pan too long can make them soggy. Transfer them to a cooling rack after 2 minutes.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for about 5 days.
Freezing Healthy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Place cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Healthy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat cookies for 5-7 minutes for best results.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, cover, and warm the cookies for 1-2 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make Healthy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies vegan?
You can substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for a vegan option.
Can I use different types of flour?
Yes, you may use almond flour or gluten-free flour blends if you’re looking for alternatives to white whole wheat flour.
Are these cookies suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! These Healthy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are great for meal prep and can be stored easily.
How do I add more spices to my Healthy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Feel free to add additional spices like nutmeg or ginger for extra flavor!
Final Thoughts
These Healthy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding nuts or dried fruit. Try this recipe today; it’s sure to become a seasonal favorite!
Healthy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Total Time: 26 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Healthy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are the perfect fall treat that balances delicious flavor with wholesome nutrition. These cookies combine the warmth of pumpkin and the sweetness of chocolate without any processed sugars or butter, making them a guilt-free indulgence. With fiber-rich whole wheat flour and natural sweeteners like coconut sugar, you can enjoy these soft, chewy delights at any occasion, from cozy evenings to festive gatherings. Easy to make and packed with flavor, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to embrace the comforting essence of autumn in a dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 Cup Canned Pumpkin
- 1 Cup Coconut Sugar
- 1/2 Cup Coconut Oil
- 1 Egg
- 1 tbsp Vanilla Extract
- 2 Cups White Whole Wheat Flour
- 2 tsp Baking Powder
- 1 Tsp Ground Cinnamon
- 1/2 Tsp Pumpkin Pie Spice
- 1/2 Tsp Fine Sea Salt
- 1 1/2 Cups Chocolate Chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix canned pumpkin, coconut sugar, coconut oil, vanilla extract, and egg until smooth.
- In another bowl, combine white whole wheat flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and fine sea salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined; fold in chocolate chips.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-11 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow cooling on the pan for two minutes before transferring to a rack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
