Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings the warmth of fall right into your kitchen, then these Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are just the ticket! Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie that bursts with the cozy flavors of pumpkin and warm spices, all complemented by the rich sweetness of chocolate chips. This beloved recipe has been a family favorite for years, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings with loved ones. The best part? They are easy to whip up and will fill your home with an irresistible aroma!

These cookies are not just tasty; they also bring a sense of nostalgia and comfort. Whether you’re baking them for a cozy night in or sharing them with friends at a gathering, they’re sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: You don’t need any fancy equipment or techniques—just mix everything in one bowl!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love helping out in the kitchen, and these cookies are perfect for little hands to scoop and drop.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer for later baking.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of pumpkin, chocolate, and spices creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for these Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies is a breeze! These are simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry.

For the Cookie Base

• 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 cookies, 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

For the Chocolate Chips

• 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 on hand or your personal taste preferences.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch!
• Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger for added warmth.
• Make Them Vegan: Substitute the egg with an additional 1/4 cup of applesauce to make them vegan-friendly.
• Use Different Chips: Swap out semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate or even white chocolate for a fun twist.

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 step is crucial as it ensures even baking, giving your cookies that perfect golden-brown finish.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, use a whisk to blend together the pumpkin puree, egg (or applesauce), granulated sugar, brown sugar, canola oil, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Mixing these ingredients well ensures that every bite of your cookie is bursting with flavor!

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, combine salt, baking soda, baking powder, and flour. Adding these dry ingredients separately helps maintain an even distribution in your cookie dough.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture. Mix until just combined—overmixing can lead to tough cookies!

Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips

Now comes the fun part! Gently fold in those semi-sweet chocolate chips. They will melt slightly during baking and create gooey pockets of deliciousness.

Step 6: Scoop Onto Baking Sheets

Using a small scoop or rounded tablespoon measure, drop dough onto parchment-lined cookie sheets. Make sure to space them out since they will spread while baking.

Step 7: Bake and Cool

Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for about 10-13 minutes. Keep an eye on them—they should look set but still soft. Once baked, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy each bite of these yummy cookies!

Pro Tips for Making Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Baking these delightful cookies is a joy, and a few simple tips can take your pumpkin chocolate chip cookies to the next level!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Starting with room temperature egg or applesauce helps create a smoother batter that combines more evenly, resulting in fluffy cookies.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing just until combined will keep your cookies tender. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies as it develops gluten in the flour.

• Chill the dough (optional): If you have the time, refrigerating the dough for 30 minutes before baking can enhance the flavors and prevent excessive spreading while baking.

• Swap chocolate chips for your favorites: Consider using dark chocolate chips or even white chocolate chips for a fun twist. This adds variety and personalizes the flavor profile.

• Store properly: Keep 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 charming cookies are perfect for any occasion! Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive holiday party, presenting them nicely can make all the difference.

Garnishes

• A sprinkle of sea salt: Just a pinch on top before baking enhances the sweetness and provides a lovely contrast.
• Drizzle of melted chocolate: A light drizzle of melted semi-sweet chocolate over cooled cookies makes them look extra special.

Side Dishes

• Coffee: The rich flavors of coffee complement these sweet treats perfectly, creating a delightful afternoon pick-me-up.
• Spiced apple cider: This warm drink pairs beautifully with pumpkin flavors, enhancing the fall-inspired vibe.
• Vanilla almond milk: For a lighter option, this dairy-free alternative offers creaminess that balances out the sweetness of the cookies.
• Fruit salad: A fresh fruit salad adds a refreshing touch and contrasts nicely with the rich flavors of pumpkin and chocolate.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy your Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies in style! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and store them for later, ensuring you always have a delicious treat on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For added freshness, place a slice of bread in the container; it helps keep the cookies moist.

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, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen 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 warm for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, microwave individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

If you have questions about these delightful cookies, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

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 and puree it until smooth. Drain any excess moisture to avoid soggy cookies.

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

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum.

What can I substitute for chocolate chips in Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies?

You can use butterscotch chips, white chocolate chips, or even nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture.

Can I omit the egg in Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Yes! You can replace one egg with 1/4 cup of applesauce, which will keep your cookies moist and delicious.

Final Thoughts

These Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are not just a treat; they’re a cozy hug in cookie form! With their soft texture and rich chocolatey goodness, they’re sure to become a favorite in your home. I hope you enjoy making them as much as I do. Happy baking!