Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that captures the essence of fall, you’ve come to the right place! These Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are the perfect balance of soft, moist pumpkin goodness and rich chocolatey delight. They are great for busy weeknights when you need a little something sweet or for family gatherings when you want to impress your loved ones with minimal effort.

What makes these cookies so special is their simplicity. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can whip up a batch that will fill your home with the warm aromas of cinnamon and baked pumpkin. Trust me; they won’t last long once your family gets a taste!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The steps are straightforward, making this recipe perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike adore the combination of pumpkin and chocolate.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough in advance and bake them fresh when needed!
• Perfectly Moist: Thanks to the pumpkin puree, these cookies have an irresistible texture.
• Versatile Flavors: Enjoy them as-is or switch things up with fun variations!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make our delicious cookies. You might already have many of these items in your pantry!

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to mix things up:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
• Spice it Up: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of flavor.
• Use Different Chips: Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate or even white chocolate.
• Make it Healthier: Substitute half of the flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition.

How to Make Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F. This step is crucial because it ensures that your cookies bake evenly. While the oven heats up, line your cookie sheets with parchment paper or give them a light spray with non-stick spray.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, use a whisk to combine the pumpkin puree, egg (or applesauce), both sugars, canola oil, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Whisking these together helps incorporate air into the mixture, which is key for fluffy cookies!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the salt, baking soda, baking powder, and flour. Once they’re well combined, gently add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Be careful not to overmix; we want just enough blending so that everything is combined without losing that tender texture.

Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips

Now it’s time for the star of the show—chocolate chips! Fold them into your dough gently until they’re evenly distributed. This step adds those delightful pockets of melty chocolaty goodness that everyone loves.

Step 5: Scoop and Bake

Using a small scoop or rounded tablespoon measure, drop about 12 cookie mounds per baking sheet. Don’t worry if they look a bit spaced out; they will spread slightly while baking. Pop them into your preheated oven and let them bake for about 10-13 minutes.

Step 6: Cool Down

Once they’re golden brown around the edges but still soft in the center, remove them from the oven. Let them cool on wire racks before diving in—if you can resist! This cooling step allows them to firm up just right while still keeping that lovely moist texture.

Now you’re ready to enjoy some amazing Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies! Perfect for sharing… or indulging all by yourself!

Pro Tips for Making Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Baking cookies can be a delightful experience, and with these simple tips, you’ll ensure your pumpkin chocolate chip cookies turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your egg (or applesauce) and pumpkin puree to room temperature helps them blend more easily, resulting in a smoother batter and a better texture.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing just until combined gives you soft and chewy cookies. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies as it develops the gluten in the flour.

• Chill the dough: If you have time, chilling your dough for about 30 minutes can enhance the flavor and help prevent excessive spreading while baking.

• Experiment with spices: While cinnamon works great, adding nutmeg or ginger can give your cookies a unique twist that complements the pumpkin flavor beautifully.

• Check for doneness early: Ovens can vary in temperature; start checking your cookies at around 10 minutes. They should be lightly golden at the edges but still soft in the middle when done.

How to Serve Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

These delicious cookies are perfect for any gathering or cozy night in. Present them warmly on a decorative platter or in a cute cookie jar for an inviting touch!

Garnishes

• Dust with powdered sugar: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
• Drizzle with melted chocolate: A drizzle of semi-sweet chocolate over the cooled cookies not only looks beautiful but adds an extra layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla non-dairy ice cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with warm cookies, creating a delightful contrast.
• Spiced apple cider: A warm cup of spiced apple cider complements the flavors of pumpkin and brings fall vibes to your dessert table.
• Fresh fruit platter: Serve with slices of apples, pears, or grapes for a refreshing palate cleanser that balances the sweetness of the cookies.
• Coffee or tea: An aromatic cup of coffee or herbal tea pairs perfectly with these cookies, enhancing their rich flavors and making them an ideal afternoon snack.

Make Ahead and Storage

One of the best things about these Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies is how perfect they are for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time, making them a delightful treat to have on hand for busy days or unexpected guests.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For added freshness, you can place a slice of bread in the container to help keep them soft.

Freezing

• Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer frozen cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating

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

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making these delicious cookies:

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

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin! Just make sure to cook it down and puree it until smooth. This will give your cookies a fresh flavor.

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

The combination of pumpkin puree and oil keeps these cookies moist and chewy, while the right balance of baking powder ensures they rise perfectly!

Can I substitute other types of chocolate chips in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to use dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even butterscotch chips based on your preference.

How do I know when my Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are done baking?

Cookies should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the wire rack.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies! They embody the warmth of fall with every bite and are perfect for sharing with loved ones. Don’t hesitate to get creative with add-ins or spices that you love. Enjoy every moment spent baking—and eating—these delightful treats!