Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

The Ultimate Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe for Fall

Soft and chewy pumpkin chocolate chip cookies bring autumn’s warmest comfort right to your plate.

Sweet spices dance with rich chocolate morsels in this irresistible treat.

Crisp fall mornings call for something special that warms the kitchen and heart.

Baking these delightful cookies fills the entire home with an inviting aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg.

Each bite promises a perfect balance between earthy pumpkin and decadent chocolate chips.

Mixing this simple recipe takes just minutes, offering a quick escape into seasonal bliss.

Prepare to experience a cookie that captures the essence of cozy afternoons and nostalgic memories.

Classic Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies to Savor

  • Savor Seasonal Comfort: Enjoy the warm, cozy flavors of pumpkin and spices that make these cookies perfect for fall gatherings and cool-weather snacking.
  • Whip Up with Ease: Simple ingredients and straightforward mixing technique mean anyone can create these delicious treats, from baking novices to seasoned home cooks.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Chocolate chips add a delightful sweetness that appeals to both kids and adults, making these cookies a guaranteed hit at family events or potlucks.
  • Versatile Baking Delight: Quick to prepare and perfect for various occasions, from after-school snacks to holiday cookie exchanges, these pumpkin chocolate chip cookies bring joy to any moment.

Ingredients for Classic Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Wet Ingredients:
  • Butter: Provides rich, creamy flavor and helps create a soft cookie texture.
  • Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Sweeten the cookies and contribute to their golden color and soft consistency.
  • Egg: Helps bind the ingredients and adds structure to the cookies.
  • Pumpkin Puree: Brings moisture and signature pumpkin flavor to the recipe.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall sweetness and adds depth to the cookie's taste.
Dry Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base of the cookie and provides structure.
  • Baking Soda, Baking Powder: Help the cookies rise and create a soft, tender texture.
  • Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
Spices and Mix-Ins:
  • Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cloves: Add warm, autumnal spices that complement the pumpkin flavor.
  • Chocolate Chips: Provide bursts of sweet chocolate throughout the cookie.

Step-by-Step Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Guide

Step 1: Prepare Baking Station

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Line baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cookie removal and cleanup.

Step 2: Whip Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, blend together:
  • Softened butter
  • Granulated sugar
  • Brown sugar

Cream ingredients until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale in color.

Step 3: Add Moisture and Flavor

Mix in wet ingredients until smooth:
  • Egg
  • Pumpkin puree
  • Vanilla extract

Stir thoroughly to create a uniform consistency.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together dry components:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Baking soda
  • Baking powder
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Ground nutmeg
  • Ground cloves
  • Salt

Ensure all spices are evenly distributed.

Step 5: Merge Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually incorporate dry ingredients into wet mixture.

Stir gently until just combined, avoiding overmixing.

Step 6: Add Chocolate Goodness

Gently fold chocolate chips into the cookie dough, distributing them evenly throughout.

Step 7: Shape Cookies

Drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Slide baking sheets into preheated oven.

Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges turn golden and centers remain soft.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Let cookies rest on baking sheets for a few minutes.

Transfer to wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your homemade treat!

Tips for Chewy and Soft Pumpkin Cookies

  • Microwave butter for 10-15 seconds to achieve the ideal creamy texture for seamless mixing.
  • Use a paper towel to blot excess moisture from pumpkin puree, preventing soggy cookie dread.
  • Refrigerate the cookie dough for 30 minutes before baking to prevent excessive spreading and enhance flavor depth.
  • Adjust ground spices to taste, using fresh spices for a more vibrant and aromatic cookie experience.
  • Gently fold chocolate chips to ensure even spread throughout the cookie dough for maximum chocolate in every bite.

Variations to Change Up Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

  • Gluten-Free Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies: Replace wheat flour with almond or gluten-free blend for a celiac-friendly version.
  • Vegan Autumn Chocolate Chip Cookies: Swap butter with coconut oil, use flax egg instead of regular egg, and select dairy-free chocolate chips.
  • Healthier Low-Sugar Option: Reduce sugar content by using monk fruit sweetener or stevia, and incorporate whole wheat pastry flour for added nutrition.
  • Spiced Harvest Variation: Enhance flavor profile by adding extra warm spices like ginger and cardamom, and mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.

Serving Ideas for Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

  • Cozy Coffee Companion: Pair these warm, spiced cookies with a steaming mug of freshly brewed coffee or chai latte for a delightful autumn afternoon treat.
  • Dessert Elegance: Serve cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or drizzle with caramel sauce for an indulgent after-dinner dessert experience.
  • Festive Gift Idea: Package these homemade cookies in cute mason jars or decorative tins, tied with a rustic ribbon, for a heartwarming seasonal gift to friends and family.
  • Brunch Crowd-Pleaser: Arrange cookies on a beautiful platter with other fall-inspired pastries for a memorable weekend brunch spread that will impress your guests.

Storage Advice for Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

  • Store cookies in an airtight container lined with parchment paper between layers. Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days, maintaining their soft texture and preventing chocolate chips from melting.
  • Scoop unbaked cookie dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to freezer bags. Frozen dough can last 2-3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1-2 extra minutes to baking time.
  • Place completely cooled cookies in freezer-safe containers with wax paper between layers. Cookies will stay fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving.

FAQs

  • Can I use canned pumpkin for this recipe?

Yes, canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and is the most convenient option for this recipe. Just make sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.

  • How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

Look for slightly golden edges and soft centers. The cookies will continue to set as they cool, so don’t overbake them. They should look slightly underdone when you remove them from the oven.

  • Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! You can scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer the dough balls to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, add 2-3 extra minutes to the baking time directly from frozen.

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Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe


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4.7 from 13 reviews

  • Total Time: 27 minutes
  • Yield: 24 1x

Description

Homemade pumpkin chocolate chip cookies combine autumn’s warmest spices with rich chocolate morsels. Rich, chewy cookies deliver comforting flavors that welcome cool seasonal moments.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1.5 cups chocolate chips

Wet Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 large egg

Spices and Leavening Agents:

  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare workspace by preheating oven to 350F and lining baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. Using an electric mixer, blend butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy and aerated.
  3. Incorporate egg, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and uniform.
  4. Separately combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt in a bowl.
  5. Slowly integrate dry ingredients into wet mixture, stirring gently to maintain a soft texture.
  6. Gently fold chocolate chips throughout the cookie dough, distributing evenly.
  7. Scoop rounded tablespoon-sized portions onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.
  8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, ensuring edges turn golden and centers remain slightly soft.
  9. Rest cookies on baking sheet for 3-4 minutes to set structure, then transfer to wire rack for complete cooling.

Notes

  • Soften butter completely at room temperature for smoother, more even mixing and better cookie texture.
  • Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to prevent excessive spreading and create thicker, chewier cookies.
  • Use pumpkin pie spice instead of individual spices for a more balanced, quick flavor shortcut if you’re short on time.
  • For gluten-free option, swap all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend to maintain the same delicious cookie consistency.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 24
  • Calories: 105 kcal
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 85 mg
  • Fat: 5 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 15 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 18 mg
Mia Thompson

Mia Thompson

Pastry Chef & Content Creator

Expertise

  • Creating wholesome, seasonal desserts with a focus on nutrition.
  • Developing recipes on healthy baking alternatives.
  • Experimenting with plant-based and gluten-free recipes.​

Education

Portland Community College – Baking and Pastry Arts Program
Specialized in artisanal bread, seasonal desserts, and sustainable baking methods.

National University of Natural Medicine – Bachelor of Science in Nutrition (BScN)
Focused on “Food as Medicine” philosophy, with core threads in nutrition.


Mia’s love affair with baking began in her grandmother’s kitchen, where sneaking spoonfuls of batter first sparked her curiosity. She refined her skills through Portland Community College’s Baking and Pastry Arts Program and her expertise at the National University of Natural Medicine, earning a B.Sc. in Nutrition.
At The Scrumptious Pumpkin, Mia reimagines classics with effortless seasonal treats, healthier twists on old favorites, and playful confections that feel like pure joy. Beyond the oven, she nurtures her urban garden, forages local ingredients around Portland, and leads hands‑on nutrition workshops for her community.

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