Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings the warmth of fall into your kitchen, you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe: Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies! These cookies are not only moist and delicious, but they also fill your home with an inviting aroma that makes it hard to resist sneaking just one more. They’re great for busy weeknights when you want a little something special or perfect for family gatherings where everyone can enjoy a sweet bite.

What I love most about these cookies is how easy they are to make. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch in no time. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to use that canned pumpkin you have tucked away in your pantry!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: You’ll be enjoying warm cookies in less than an hour!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the combination of pumpkin and chocolate.
• Make-ahead convenience: These cookies store well, making them perfect for snacks throughout the week.
• Versatile flavors: With just a few tweaks, you can customize them to suit your taste!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create these delicious cookies! Most of these items are probably already in your kitchen, which makes this recipe even more appealing. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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! You can easily adapt it to fit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
• Switch up the spices: Try adding nutmeg or ginger for a different flavor profile.
• Use different chocolate: Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark or even white chocolate chips!

How to Make Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial because it ensures that your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly fluffy.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, egg (or applesauce), granulated sugar, brown sugar, canola oil, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until everything is blended well. This mixture serves as the flavorful base of your cookies.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the salt, baking soda, baking powder, and flour. Mixing these dry ingredients separately helps evenly distribute the leavening agents before combining with the wet mixture.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined—overmixing can lead to tough cookies.

Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in those delicious semi-sweet chocolate chips. The more chocolate, the better if you ask me!

Step 6: Scoop onto Cookie Sheets

Using a small scoop or rounded tablespoon measure, drop dough onto prepared cookie sheets. Aim for about 12 cookies per sheet since they will spread a little while baking.

Step 7: Bake!

Place the cookie sheets in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-13 minutes until golden brown. When done, let them cool on wire racks before indulging in their soft goodness.

And there you have it! Now you’re ready to enjoy these Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies with family and friends—or keep them all for yourself! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Baking these delightful cookies is a joy, and with a few simple tips, you can make them even more scrumptious!

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: While canned pumpkin is convenient, using freshly roasted pumpkin can enhance the flavor and texture of your cookies.
• Chill the dough: If time allows, refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps develop the flavors and prevents excessive spreading during baking.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined ensures your cookies remain soft and tender rather than dense.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add nutmeg or ginger for an extra kick of fall flavor that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
• Check for doneness: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your cookies around the 10-minute mark. They should be slightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.

How to Serve Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

These cookies are perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some creative ways to serve them.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness to your cookies.
• Chocolate drizzle: Melt some chocolate chips and drizzle over cooled cookies for an extra indulgent treat.

Side Dishes

• Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices in chai beautifully complement the flavors of your pumpkin chocolate chip cookies, creating a cozy pairing perfect for chilly days.
• Apple Cider: A glass of sweet apple cider pairs wonderfully with these cookies, enhancing that autumn vibe while balancing their sweetness.
• Vanilla Soy Milk: A refreshing glass of vanilla soy milk provides a creamy contrast to the cookie’s texture and richness.
• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits like pears and pomegranates offers a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the cookies.

Enjoy serving these Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies at your next gathering or as a special treat for yourself!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time, ensuring you always have a delicious treat on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for about a week.

Freezing

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be stored in the freezer 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 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave each cookie for about 10-15 seconds for a quick treat!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making these delightful cookies.

Can I make Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies without eggs?

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

How do I store Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate them for about a week. For longer storage, freezing is also an excellent option!

What can I use instead of chocolate chips?

If you’re looking for alternatives, try using butterscotch chips or chopped nuts. You can also mix in dried fruits like cranberries for an added twist!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Yes! If you want to use fresh pumpkin, just cook and puree it until smooth. Be sure to drain any excess moisture to avoid overly wet dough.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies! They embody the warmth and nostalgia of fall treats while being easy enough to whip up anytime you crave something sweet. Enjoy sharing them with friends and family—or keep them all to yourself! Either way, happy baking!