Pumpkin chocolate chip cookies bring together the best of fall flavors—warm spices and rich, melty chocolate. Whether you’re looking for a chewy cookie or prefer a cakier texture, these cookies are perfect for chilly autumn days. Let’s explore the recipe, along with some pro tips and variations to make these cookies a hit for every occasion.
Why Pumpkin and Chocolate Are a Match Made in Heaven
Pumpkin adds moisture and a mild sweetness to baked goods, making it a great companion to semi-sweet chocolate chips. The combination of these two ingredients results in a rich, balanced flavor that’s perfect for fall. The warmth from spices like cinnamon and nutmeg further enhances the flavor profile of these cookies, making them an irresistible treat.
For more fall-inspired recipes, you might also enjoy this delightful Pumpkin Banana Loaf, another seasonal favorite that pairs the rich flavors of pumpkin with the subtle sweetness of banana.
Ingredients You Need for Perfect Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
To make these cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Pumpkin Puree: Adds moisture and flavor. Be sure to blot it with a paper towel to remove excess moisture and prevent overly cakey cookies.
- Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chocolate chips provide the perfect balance, but feel free to experiment with dark or white chocolate.
- Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger create that signature fall flavor.
- Butter: Use melted butter for chewier cookies. For a vegan version, try substituting with vegan butter.
- Flour: All-purpose flour works well, but for those interested in gluten-free alternatives, there are plenty of options available.
For a unique twist, check out this Earl Grey Cookies recipe, which offers a sophisticated blend of tea-infused flavors, perfect for a different kind of cookie experience.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how you can make your own batch of pumpkin chocolate chip cookies:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Blot the Pumpkin: Using a paper towel, blot the pumpkin puree to remove excess moisture.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Combine flour, baking soda, spices, and salt in a bowl.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix melted butter, pumpkin puree, and sugar until smooth.
- Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and fold in the chocolate chips.
- Bake: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a lined baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Cool and Enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Chewy vs. Cakey Cookies
Want your pumpkin chocolate chip cookies to be chewy rather than cakey? Here are some tips:
- For Chewy Cookies: Use melted butter and omit the egg for a denser, chewier texture.
- For Cakey Cookies: Add an extra egg and use a little more flour to give the cookies a lighter, fluffier feel.
Vegan and Gluten-Free Options
If you’re catering to dietary restrictions, don’t worry! You can easily modify this recipe to suit vegan and gluten-free preferences.
Vegan Version
- Replace eggs with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water).
- Use vegan butter instead of regular butter.
- Ensure the chocolate chips are dairy-free.
Gluten-Free Version
- Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Add a bit of xanthan gum if your flour blend doesn’t already include it, to help with structure.
FAQs About Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
Can I freeze pumpkin chocolate chip cookies?
Yes, you can freeze both the dough and baked cookies. Simply wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
How do I make my cookies chewier?
Use melted butter and omit the egg for a chewier texture. Blot the pumpkin puree to reduce moisture, which also helps with chewiness.
Can I make these cookies sugar-free?
Yes! Replace sugar with a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener to make a low-sugar version.
Conclusion: Try Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Today
With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, pumpkin chocolate chip cookies are the perfect fall treat. Whether you’re making them chewy, cakey, vegan, or gluten-free, there’s a version for everyone to enjoy. Want more seasonal treats? Be sure to try the Pumpkin Banana Loaf or explore other fall-inspired desserts on the site. Happy baking!
Print
Best Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 52 minute
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Pumpkin chocolate chip cookies bring together the best of fall flavors—warm spices and rich, melty chocolate. Whether you’re looking for a chewy cookie or prefer a cakier texture, these cookies are perfect for chilly autumn days. Let’s explore the recipe, along with some pro tips and variations to make these cookies a hit for every occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (blotted to remove excess moisture)
- 1/2 cup melted butter (or vegan butter for a vegan option)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for gluten-free option)
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or dairy-free for vegan option)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Blot the pumpkin puree with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter, pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine dry and wet ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips.
- Scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet using a cookie scoop or spoon.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden brown.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, pumpkin chocolate chip cookies are the perfect fall treat. Whether you’re making them chewy, cakey, vegan, or gluten-free, there’s a version for everyone to enjoy. Want more seasonal treats? Be sure to try the Pumpkin Banana Loaf or explore other fall-inspired desserts on the site. Happy baking!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: pumpkin chocolate chip cookies, chewy pumpkin cookies, cakey pumpkin cookies, vegan pumpkin cookies, gluten-free pumpkin cookies, easy fall cookie recipe, best pumpkin cookies, fall desserts