There’s something truly magical about the aroma of freshly baked Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies wafting through the kitchen, isn’t there? I remember the first time I made these cookies; it was a crisp autumn afternoon, and the leaves were just starting to turn. I was experimenting with pumpkin puree and chocolate chips, and let me tell you, it was love at first bite! The soft texture and rich flavor of these cookies are simply irresistible, making them the perfect treat for cozy gatherings, festive holidays, or just because you want to indulge yourself. Trust me, once you taste these delightful gems, you’ll be reaching for seconds — and maybe even thirds!
So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this easy and delightful recipe. You’ll be so glad you did!
Why You’ll Love Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
Oh, where do I even begin? First off, these Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are just bursting with flavor! The combination of warm pumpkin spice and decadent chocolate creates a taste sensation that’s both cozy and comforting. Each bite melts in your mouth, thanks to that soft, cake-like texture that’s simply to die for. Imagine sinking your teeth into a cookie that’s perfectly chewy on the outside and soft in the middle — pure bliss!
But that’s not all! These cookies are incredibly versatile. You can whip them up in no time, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or cozy nights in. Plus, they’re a hit with kids and adults alike, making them a fantastic treat for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating the fall season, hosting a holiday party, or just craving something sweet, these cookies will be the star of the show. Trust me, once you bake a batch, you’ll have everyone coming back for more!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Alright, let’s gather all the goodies you’ll need to whip up these delicious Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies! Having everything prepped and ready to go makes the process so much smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup cold unsalted butter – Make sure it’s really cold; it’ll help give the cookies that perfect soft texture!
- 2/3 cup Libby’s Pumpkin Puree, room temperature – I swear by this brand for its rich flavor, but feel free to use your favorite!
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar – Just the right amount of sweetness to balance the pumpkin.
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed – This adds a lovely depth of flavor and moisture.
- 2 large egg yolks, room temperature – Bring them to room temp for easier mixing.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Because who doesn’t love a little vanilla to enhance the flavors?
- 1 2/3 cups + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour – Be sure to measure correctly for the best results — spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off!
- 2 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin spice – This is where the magic happens; it’s like a hug in cookie form!
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – This will help your cookies rise beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt – Just a pinch to elevate all those flavors.
- 1 cup finely chopped chocolate bar or chocolate chips – Use whatever chocolate you love; dark chocolate is my personal fave!
Once you have all these ingredients ready, you’re all set to make some cookie magic happen!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
Prepping Your Ingredients
Before we dive into the mixing, let’s talk about prepping those ingredients! This part is super important because it sets you up for success. First, take that cold unsalted butter out of the fridge and let it chill for just a few minutes on the counter. We want it cold but not rock-hard! Next, make sure your Libby’s pumpkin puree is at room temperature. This will help everything blend together beautifully.
And don’t forget about measuring your flour! It’s a little trickier than it sounds. Instead of scooping directly from the bag, grab a spoon and fluff up the flour first. Then, spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This way, you won’t end up with dense cookies!
Mixing the Wet Ingredients
Now that we’ve got everything prepped, let’s start mixing! In a large mixing bowl, cream together your cold butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. I usually use an electric mixer for this part, but you can totally do it by hand if you’re feeling strong! You want to mix until it’s light and fluffy — about 2-3 minutes should do the trick. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the dough, which helps your cookies stay soft.
Once that’s done, it’s time to add in your pumpkin puree, egg yolks, and vanilla extract. Mix it all together until you have a nice, smooth mixture. This is where the magic happens, and the rich, warm aromas start filling your kitchen. Trust me, you’ll want to stop and take a moment to enjoy that smell!
Combining Dry Ingredients
Now it’s time to whip up the dry ingredients! In a separate bowl, whisk together your all-purpose flour, pumpkin spice, baking soda, and sea salt. Make sure everything is well combined; this step is key to ensuring your cookies have a consistent texture. Once you’ve got that done, it’s time to bring the two mixtures together!
Bringing It All Together
Here’s where your cookies really start to come to life! Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. I like to do this in parts, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want those cookies to stay light and fluffy! Once you’ve got a nice dough, it’s time for the fun part — folding in the chocolate! Whether you’re using chopped chocolate or chocolate chips, gently fold them into the dough. This is where you can really get creative and make sure every bite is packed with chocolatey goodness.
Baking the Cookies
Alright, we’re almost there! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you haven’t already — that’s the sweet spot for baking these beauties. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking, and then use a spoon or cookie scoop to drop spoonfuls of dough onto the sheet. Don’t worry about making them perfect; a little rustic charm is part of the cookie experience!
Pop those cookies in the oven and let them bake for 12-15 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are golden brown but the centers still look a little soft. It’s okay if they seem underbaked — they’ll continue to firm up as they cool! Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. And there you have it — delicious, warm Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies ready to be devoured!
Variations of Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
Now, let’s get a little creative! One of the best things about these Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies is how easily they can be customized to suit your taste or the season. If you’re a fan of nuts, consider folding in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that pairs perfectly with the soft texture of the cookies. Trust me, the added nutty flavor is divine!
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not switch up the chocolate? Instead of using regular chocolate chips, try white chocolate for a sweet twist that complements the pumpkin beautifully. Or how about a mix of semi-sweet and dark chocolate? Oh, the possibilities are endless!
And for those who want to amp up the spice factor, you can add a pinch of ground ginger or nutmeg to the dough for an extra kick of warmth. You could even experiment with different types of pumpkin spice blends or add a splash of maple syrup for a hint of maple flavor. Each variation will give you a unique cookie experience, so don’t hesitate to play around and find your perfect combo!
Serving and Storage Tips
Now that your Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are baked to perfection, let’s talk about how to serve and store them to keep that deliciousness going! These cookies are best enjoyed warm, fresh out of the oven, paired with a cozy cup of coffee or a tall glass of cold milk. Seriously, there’s nothing quite like sinking your teeth into a soft, warm cookie while sipping your favorite beverage. If you’re feeling fancy, a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top transforms your cookie into an indulgent dessert that everyone will rave about!
As for storage, make sure to let your cookies cool completely before you tuck them away. Once they’re cool, store them in an airtight container at room temperature — they’ll stay fresh for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies. Just pop them in a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag, and they’ll last up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just let them thaw at room temperature or warm them up in the microwave for a few seconds. Trust me, even frozen, these cookies are a delightful treat that brings a smile to your face!
Helpful Notes for Perfect Cookies
Alright, let’s make sure you nail these Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies! First and foremost, measuring your flour correctly is crucial. If you scoop directly from the bag, you might end up with too much flour, leading to dense cookies. Instead, fluff up the flour with a spoon, spoon it into your measuring cup, and level it off with a knife. This will ensure you have just the right amount!
If you’re looking to make these cookies a bit healthier, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and extra fiber. You could also use coconut sugar in place of granulated sugar for a lower glycemic index option. And for those with dietary restrictions, feel free to swap the butter for a dairy-free alternative and make sure your chocolate chips are dairy-free as well. Happy baking!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I freeze these Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Absolutely! These cookies freeze beautifully. Just let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. They’ll last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up!
2. What if I don’t have Libby’s Pumpkin Puree?
No worries! You can use any brand of pumpkin puree you like, or even homemade pumpkin puree if you have it. Just make sure it’s pure pumpkin without any added spices or sugar for the best flavor in your cookies.
3. Can I use whole eggs instead of just egg yolks?
While I love using just the yolks for a richer flavor and softer texture, you can use one large egg instead of the two yolks. Just keep in mind it might slightly alter the texture, making it a bit less rich.
4. How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
Great question! The edges should be golden brown while the centers still look a little soft. They’ll firm up as they cool on the baking sheet, so don’t worry if they seem underbaked when you take them out. Trust your instincts!
5. Can I add nuts to the cookie dough?
Of course! Chopped walnuts or pecans make a fantastic addition. Just fold them in along with the chocolate chips for a delightful crunch in every bite!
Final Thoughts on Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
So there you have it — the ultimate recipe for Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies that will fill your kitchen with warmth and joy! I can’t wait for you to try these out and experience that delightful combination of pumpkin and chocolate melting in your mouth. Baking is more than just a way to satisfy a sweet tooth; it’s a way to create memories, share joy, and bring loved ones together. Whether you’re making these for a special occasion or just because you want something sweet, I promise you’ll love every bite!
So roll up your sleeves, get those ingredients together, and let the baking adventure begin! And don’t forget to share your cookie creations and experiences with me — I’d love to hear how they turn out for you. Happy baking!
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Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies: Irresistible Fall Treats
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious pumpkin chocolate chip cookies with a soft texture and rich flavor.
Ingredients
- 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
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, cream the cold butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar.
- Add pumpkin puree, egg yolks, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, pumpkin spice, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
- Fold in the chopped chocolate or chocolate chips.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are golden.
- Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
- Measure flour correctly for best results.
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies