Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that captures the essence of fall, then you’re going to adore these Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies! They’re moist, delicious, and bursting with flavors that remind you of pumpkin spice lattes and crisp autumn days. This recipe is a family favorite in my house—perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings when you want to whip up something special without too much fuss. Trust me, once you try these cookies, they’ll become a staple in your baking repertoire!

Baking these cookies is not just about enjoying a delightful dessert; it’s about creating warm memories with loved ones. The sweet aroma of pumpkin and chocolate wafting from your oven will have everyone flocking to the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have fresh cookies in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the combination of pumpkin and chocolate—these cookies are sure to please all ages!
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and bake them fresh whenever the craving hits.
• Deliciously Moist: Thanks to the pumpkin puree, these cookies stay soft and tender even after cooling.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything you need for these delightful cookies!

For the Cookies

• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1 large egg (or 1/4 cup applesauce)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup + 2 Tablespoons canola oil (for extra fluffy, omit 2 tablespoons canola oil)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (or pumpkin spice)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 cups all purpose flour
• 1 1/3 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative based on what you have or what flavors you love.

• Add Nuts: Stir in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Spice It Up: Mix in some ginger or nutmeg for an extra layer of warmth.
• Make It Vegan: Substitute the egg with additional applesauce and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
• Frost Them: Once cooled, top with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and almond milk for a sweet finish.

How to Make Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your cookies bake perfectly from the moment they hit the oven.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, egg (or applesauce), granulated sugar, brown sugar, canola oil, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Mixing these ingredients well is key to achieving that lovely moist texture we all crave in a cookie!

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the salt, baking soda, baking powder, and flour. Be sure to mix them thoroughly before adding them to your wet mixture. This helps distribute the leavening agents evenly so your cookies rise beautifully.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Don’t overmix! A few lumps are okay—this helps keep those cookies soft and chewy.

Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips

Now comes the best part! Stir in those semi-sweet chocolate chips until they’re evenly distributed throughout your cookie dough.

Step 6: Scoop onto Baking Sheets

Using a small scoop or rounded tablespoon measure, drop dough onto prepared cookie sheets—aim for about 12 cookies per sheet. Remember that these cookies will spread a little as they bake.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place your cookie sheets in the oven and bake for 10-13 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be slightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.

Step 8: Cool Down

Once baked, remove them from the tray and let cool on a wire rack. This step allows them to firm up just right while staying wonderfully moist inside.

Now you’re ready to enjoy these Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies! They make great treats for sharing or savoring all by yourself with a cozy cup of tea or coffee. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Baking is both an art and a science, so here are some pro tips to ensure your pumpkin chocolate chip cookies turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your egg and pumpkin puree to room temperature helps them mix more smoothly with the other ingredients, resulting in a better texture.

• Don’t overmix the dough: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft and chewy ones.

• Chill the dough (optional): If you have time, chill the cookie dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the flavors meld and can prevent excessive spreading.

• Check for doneness: Since ovens can vary, start checking your cookies at 10 minutes. They’re done when the edges are set but the centers still look slightly soft; they will firm up as they cool.

• Store properly: To maintain freshness, store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper.

How to Serve Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

These delightful cookies aren’t just a treat on their own; they can be served in various ways that enhance their deliciousness!

Garnishes

• Sprinkling of sea salt: A light dusting of flaky sea salt right before serving can elevate the sweet and savory notes of these cookies.
• Chocolate drizzle: Melt some extra semi-sweet chocolate chips and drizzle over the cooled cookies for an elegant touch.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla almond milk: The nutty flavor of almond milk pairs beautifully with these cookies, adding a refreshing contrast.
• Apple cider: A warm cup of apple cider complements the fall spices in your cookies and creates a cozy atmosphere.
• Fresh fruit platter: Serve alongside a colorful array of fresh fruits like sliced apples or pears for a refreshing crunch that balances the sweetness.
• Pumpkin spice latte: For an ultimate seasonal treat, enjoy your cookies with this classic fall beverage that echoes their warm flavors.

These serving suggestions will not only enhance your cookie experience but also impress your family and friends during gatherings or celebrations! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious treat any time of the week. You can easily make a batch ahead of time and store or freeze them to keep those pumpkin flavors fresh!

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• If you have many cookies, consider layering them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the cookies cool completely.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer into a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just label the bag with the date!

Reheating

• To enjoy warm cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have while making these delightful cookies!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned for Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Absolutely! Just make sure to cook and puree the pumpkin until smooth before measuring out one cup.

How do I make Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it’s a 1:1 ratio blend for best results.

Are Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies healthy?

While they are still a treat, using canned pumpkin adds moisture and nutrients! You can also reduce sugar or use alternative sweeteners if desired.

Can I add nuts to Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Yes! Chopped walnuts or pecans would be delicious additions. Just fold them in along with the chocolate chips.

What makes these Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies so special?

The combination of warm spices and rich chocolate creates a comforting flavor that’s perfect for fall or anytime you need a cozy treat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking these Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies! Their soft, chewy texture combined with hints of cinnamon and rich chocolate makes them truly special. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or sharing them with friends, these cookies are sure to bring smiles. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with warmth and laughter!