Why Make This Recipe
If you’re looking for a delicious way to celebrate fall, these Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect. They combine the warm spices of pumpkin pie with the rich sweetness of chocolate chips. These cookies are not only tasty but also incredibly easy to make, which is ideal for both novice bakers and seasoned pros.
The mix of soft, spiced pumpkin with gooey chocolate makes these cookies irresistible. Enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or even an afternoon treat. They are perfect for sharing with family and friends or enjoying during cozy nights at home.
Equipment Needed for Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
To make Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies, you will need some basic kitchen equipment. A mixing bowl and a whisk are essential for combining your ingredients. Additionally, you’ll need a baking sheet and parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
Having measuring cups and spoons handy will make portioning your ingredients easier. A spatula will help in mixing and transferring the cookie dough. Lastly, an oven is obviously needed to bake these delightful cookies to perfection.
What You Need to Make Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
- 1 cup granulated sugar (200 g)
- 1/2 cup oil (vegetable or canola oil) (120 ml)
- 1 teaspoon milk (5 ml)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5 ml)
- 1 cup canned pumpkin
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (250 g)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (3 g)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (3 g)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder (8 g)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda (5 g)
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or milk chocolate) (260 g)
How to Cook Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Step by Step
Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). This ensures that your cookies will bake evenly. Prepare a cookie sheet by lining it with parchment paper, or you can lightly spray it with non-stick cooking spray if preferred.
In a mixing bowl, add the granulated sugar and oil. Mix them together until they are well combined. Next, crack the egg into the bowl and add milk, the canned pumpkin, and vanilla extract. Mix these ingredients until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
In a separate bowl, gather your dry ingredients. Combine all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Stir them together to blend well. Next, add the dry ingredients into the bowl with the wet ingredients. Also, add the chocolate chips at this point. Gently stir everything together until it is just incorporated—don’t overmix.
Using a large spoon or cookie scoop, drop scoops of the dough onto the prepared cookie sheet, leaving some space between each scoop to allow for spreading during baking. Make sure the cookie dough is evenly divided so that all cookies bake uniformly.
Place the sheet in your preheated oven and bake at 375 degrees F for about 10 to 12 minutes. The exact baking time may vary depending on the size of your cookies. Watch for the cookies to lose their glossy appearance on top, which indicates they’re cooked through.
Once they are done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool on the sheet for a few minutes. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
These delicious cookies can be served warm or at room temperature. They are great on their own, but you can also consider pairing them with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee. This combination enhances their rich flavor and creates a delightful experience.
For a fun twist, consider serving them with some whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The combination of warm cookies and cold ice cream is often a crowd-pleaser, especially on cool autumn evenings.
What to Serve with Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies can be served alongside various items to create an enjoyable experience. Pair them with a glass of apple cider or hot chocolate for a comforting fall treat.
You could even make a cookie platter that includes a variety of cookies alongside your pumpkin ones. This setup works well for gatherings, parties, or family dinners. Additionally, consider serving them with simple snacks like nuts or fruit to provide some balance.
How to Store Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
These cookies can be stored easily. After baking and cooling, place them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for about a week. If you want to keep them fresh for a longer period, consider refrigerating them.
For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies. Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe container. They will stay fresh in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them up in the microwave for a few seconds.
Tips to Make Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
For the best results, use pumpkin puree instead of pumpkin pie filling as the latter contains added sugars and spices. It’s also essential to measure your ingredients accurately. Spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife for precision.
Feel free to tweak the recipe according to your taste. You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture. If you love spices, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to enhance the flavor profile.
Variation
If you want to mix things up, consider adding coconut flakes or dried cranberries. These additions can give the cookies a unique flavor and texture. You can also try different types of chocolate chips, like dark chocolate, for a richer taste.
For a healthier version, try replacing half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. You can also substitute some of the sugar with a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey, though this may change the texture.
Best Time to Make Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
These cookies are particularly enjoyable during the fall season, especially around Halloween and Thanksgiving. However, they can be made anytime for a cozy treat.
If you’re hosting a gathering, making these cookies in advance will save you time during busy days. Baking them in batches can also create a fantastic aroma in your home, making it feel warm and inviting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overmixing the batter after adding the dry ingredients. This can lead to dense cookies rather than the desired soft and fluffy texture.
Also, ensure that you are not using canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pureed pumpkin. Another point to keep in mind is to not skip the cooling step after baking, as this helps the cookies maintain their shape and texture.
Nutritional Notes
These cookies are a delightful treat, combining the nutritional benefits of pumpkin with the sweetness of chocolate. Pumpkin provides vitamins A and C, as well as fiber, while chocolate chips bring a touch of indulgence. However, remember that these cookies still contain sugar and fat, so enjoy them as part of a balanced diet.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Just be sure to roast and puree it before using it in the recipe.
How can I tell when the cookies are done baking?
Look for a slight firmness on the top and a non-glossy appearance. They may still look soft, but they will harden as they cool.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.
Conclusion
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of the fall season. With their warm spices and gooey chocolate chips, they are perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and enjoyable to eat, these cookies can bring joy to your kitchen and home.
The next time you’re in the mood for a simple baking project, remember this recipe. Whether for a snack, dessert, or gathering, these cookies will be a sure hit.
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a cookie sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar and oil until well combined. Add egg, milk, canned pumpkin, and vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, mix together all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, then fold in chocolate chips until just incorporated.
- Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop dough onto the prepared cookie sheet, spacing them apart.
- Bake in preheated oven for about 10 to 12 minutes, until they lose their glossy appearance.
- Remove from oven and cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
