Step into the cozy embrace of autumn with a batch of our incredibly soft and fluffy Old-Fashioned Classic Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies. These delightful treats are the quintessential fall dessert, capturing the essence of the season in every bite. While perfect for the crisp days of autumn, we find ourselves baking these year-round, and for good reason—they disappear almost as quickly as they’re made! Consider making a double batch; you’ll thank us later.
There’s simply no substitute for the moist texture and rich flavor of these pumpkin chocolate chip cookies. Fall truly wouldn’t be complete without the warm spices of pumpkin mingling with sweet chocolate chips. If you adore the pumpkin and spice combination, you might also love our Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies Recipe!
Capture Autumn’s Essence: Why These Classic Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Are a Fall Must-Have
Prepare your senses for an unforgettable classic fall favorite! This pumpkin chocolate chip cookie recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s an invitation to embrace the cozy autumn vibes that accompany the season’s vibrant leaves and cooler temperatures. The harmonious blend of rich chocolate chips and creamy pumpkin puree creates the ultimate cookie experience. Each bite delivers a perfect symphony of textures—moist, wonderfully soft, and bursting with sweet, comforting flavors that make it everyone’s favorite fall cookie.
What makes these cookies truly special? It’s the balance of simple ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. The natural sweetness and earthy notes of pumpkin puree are beautifully elevated by a medley of warm spices, while the chocolate chips add a delightful contrast and melty pockets of sweetness. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a celebration of seasonal bounty and the joy of home baking.
Beyond their irresistible taste, these pumpkin chocolate chip cookies hold a special charm. They evoke feelings of warmth, family gatherings, and holiday cheer. Imagine the aroma filling your kitchen as these golden-orange delights bake to perfection – a scent that instantly says “fall is here.” Plus, a little secret that makes them even more appealing: this recipe is butter-free, relying on oil for that perfect moist crumb!
Follow this easy-to-understand recipe to craft the best pumpkin chocolate chip cookies you’ve ever tasted. We’re confident your family and friends will not only thank you but will likely ask for the recipe time and time again. These cookies are not just a treat; they’re a tradition waiting to be started in your home.
Speaking of family and the joy they bring, these cookies remind me of my precious granddaughter, Grace Rose Howell. She was born on September 9th, and she is truly as precious as can be! Becoming a “Mimi” (my official grandma name) has filled my heart with immeasurable love. My little “punkin” brings so much joy into our lives, and it’s funny how it all ties back to these pumpkin cookies, isn’t it? The simple, wholesome goodness of pumpkin perfectly mirrors the sweet innocence of new life.
I’ll be making many trips to Florida to visit my baby Grace and get my “fix” of cuddles! Spending every minute I can with this little peanut before I have to leave on Thursday. Everyone is doing wonderfully, and Grace is one very lucky girl, cherished by all. She has already brought so much happiness to our family, and I feel blessed beyond words. Thank you, Justin and Lauren, for this incredible gift! You can tell I’m excited, can’t you? When Grace is older, I dream of the days we’ll bake these very cookies together, creating sweet memories in the kitchen, just like these cookies create sweet moments for all who taste them.
In the meantime, enjoy these delicious “babies” with a cold glass of milk, a warm cup of coffee, or your favorite tea. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a delightful and crowd-pleasing classic pumpkin chocolate chip cookie that everyone will adore. Get ready to indulge in a yummy treat that is sure to be the star of your fall season celebrations!
Essential Ingredients for Your Classic Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
Crafting the perfect pumpkin chocolate chip cookie starts with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that signature soft texture and rich flavor. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:
- Canned Pumpkin Puree: The star of the show! Ensure it’s 100% pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices. This provides the distinct pumpkin flavor and crucial moisture.
- Large Egg (or Applesauce for an alternative): The egg acts as a binder, contributing to the cookie’s structure and richness. For an egg-free option, 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce works wonderfully to maintain moisture and texture.
- Granulated Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create a crisp edge while keeping the interior soft.
- Light Brown Sugar (or Dark Brown Sugar): Adds depth of flavor with its molasses content, contributes to chewiness, and enhances the overall moistness of the cookies.
- Canola Oil: Our secret to incredibly moist, tender cookies without butter. Canola oil has a neutral flavor that lets the pumpkin and spices shine through. Adjusting the amount slightly can also influence fluffiness.
- Vanilla Extract: A crucial flavor enhancer that complements both the pumpkin and chocolate, adding a warm, aromatic note.
- Ground Cinnamon (or Pumpkin Pie Spice): These warm spices are essential for that characteristic fall flavor. You can use ground cinnamon alone for a purer spice note or opt for pumpkin pie spice for a blend that typically includes cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Feel free to add extra nutmeg, cloves, or ginger if you desire a bolder spice profile.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and amplifies all the other flavors in the cookie.
- Baking Soda: A leavening agent that helps the cookies spread slightly and become tender.
- Baking Powder: Another leavening agent that works with baking soda to give the cookies their soft, fluffy rise.
- All-Purpose Flour: The structural base of the cookie. Measure it correctly for the best results, ideally by weight or using the spoon-and-level method.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: The perfect companion to pumpkin, these melt into delicious pockets of chocolatey goodness. Feel free to use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate chips for a different twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Bake Perfect Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
Baking these classic pumpkin chocolate chip cookies is a simple and rewarding process. Follow these easy steps to achieve soft, moist, and perfectly spiced autumn treats:
Prepping for Perfection
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare your cookie sheets by lining them with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and ensures even baking and easy cleanup. If you don’t have parchment paper, a light spray of non-stick cooking spray will work just as well.
Crafting the Cookie Dough
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine all your wet ingredients. Use a whisk to thoroughly beat together the pumpkin puree, egg (or applesauce), granulated sugar, brown sugar, canola oil, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon (or pumpkin pie spice). Mix until the mixture is smooth and well blended. This ensures all the delicious flavors are evenly distributed.
- In a separate large bowl, prepare your dry ingredients. Whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, baking soda, and baking powder. This step, known as sifting or whisking dry ingredients, helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices, preventing clumps in your final dough.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet pumpkin mixture. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; overmixing can lead to tough cookies. A few streaks of flour are perfectly fine at this stage.
- Finally, gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips using a spatula. Incorporate them evenly throughout the dough without crushing them.
- Using a small cookie scoop or a rounded tablespoon measure, drop portions of dough onto your prepared cookie sheets. Space them about 2 inches apart, aiming for approximately 12 cookies per baking sheet. The cookies will spread slightly during baking.
Baking and Cooling
- Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 10-13 minutes. Baking times can vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them. The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set but still soft.
- Once baked, remove the cookie sheets from the oven. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them firm up and prevents them from breaking.
Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of these homemade pumpkin chocolate chip cookies!
Storing & Freezing Your Delicious Pumpkin Cookies with Chocolate Chips
To ensure your pumpkin chocolate chip cookies stay fresh and delicious for as long as possible, proper storage is key. Whether you plan to enjoy them now or save some for later, here’s how to do it:
- Room Temperature Storage: Once the cookies have cooled completely, transfer them to a covered airtight container. They will maintain their soft texture and wonderful flavor at room temperature for up to 7 days. Interestingly, the pumpkin flavor tends to deepen and become even more pronounced the longer the cookies sit, making them arguably even better on day two or three!
- Freezing for Longer Enjoyment: These cookies are also excellent for freezing, allowing you to enjoy a taste of fall anytime. Place the cooled baked cookies in a freezer-safe airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months without losing their quality. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw on the counter until they are no longer frozen. For a warm treat, you can even gently reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Creative Variations to Customize Your Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
While the classic pumpkin chocolate chip cookie recipe is perfect as is, there’s always room for a little creativity and customization. This versatile recipe can be easily adapted to suit your personal preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Experiment with these variations to make these delightful cookies uniquely yours:
- Spice It Up: If you love a bolder spice profile, consider adding a pinch of ground ginger, nutmeg, or cloves to your dough. A touch of allspice can also create a richer, more complex flavor.
- Add Nuts or Dried Fruit: Introduce an extra layer of texture and flavor by folding in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans. For a fruity tang that complements the pumpkin beautifully, try dried cranberries or raisins.
- Chocolate Chip Choices: Don’t feel limited to semi-sweet chocolate chips. Experiment with milk chocolate for a sweeter cookie, dark chocolate for a more intense cocoa flavor, or even white chocolate chips for a creamier, contrasting sweetness. A combination of different chocolate chips can also be delightful!
- Frosting Fun: Take these cookies to the next level with a decadent topping. A classic cream cheese frosting, with its tangy sweetness, pairs perfectly with pumpkin. For a truly indulgent treat, consider a luscious chocolate frosting or even a light pumpkin-flavored glaze.
- Flavor Boosters: A tablespoon of maple syrup or a dash of almond extract can add subtle yet wonderful nuances to the cookie dough.
Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or explore these exciting variations, these pumpkin chocolate chip cookies are sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them.
Savoring Your Classic Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
In conclusion, classic pumpkin chocolate chip cookies stand as a true fall favorite – effortlessly easy to make and utterly delicious to devour. They offer a delightful fusion of the season’s most scrumptious flavors, blending the warm, comforting essence of pumpkin with the timeless appeal of chocolate chip cookies. It’s a combination that truly “rocks” the taste buds, delivering a homemade treat that feels both nostalgic and exciting.
So, as the holiday season approaches and the air turns crisp, why not carve out some time to whip up a batch (or two!) of these irresistible cookies? The simple act of baking fills your home with an inviting aroma, and the resulting treats bring smiles to faces of all ages. Your family, friends, and especially your taste buds will undoubtedly thank you for this delightful indulgence.
Let’s embrace the joy of fall baking and savor the warm, comforting flavor of classic pumpkin chocolate chip cookies. They are more than just a dessert; they are a celebration of autumn’s bounty, a gesture of warmth, and a perfect way to create cherished memories. Happy baking!
Don’t forget to share your baking adventures with us on Pinterest, Instagram, and Facebook!
If You Love Pumpkin Bars and Cookies, Here are More Recipes for Your Collection!
If these pumpkin chocolate chip cookies have sparked your love for autumn-inspired baking, you’re in for a treat! We’ve curated a collection of equally delightful pumpkin and chocolate chip desserts that are perfect for any occasion. Expand your recipe book with these scrumptious ideas:
- Perfect Pumpkin White Chocolate Chip Bars: A decadent twist on classic pumpkin bars, featuring creamy white chocolate.
- Awesome Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Cookies: Another fantastic take on the beloved flavor combination.
- Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Frosted Blondies: Chewy blondies with pumpkin goodness, topped with a delightful frosting.
- Ultimate Pumpkin Bars with Creamy Cream Cheese Frosting: A timeless classic that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
- Pumpkin Cranberry Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Bars: A wholesome and flavorful bar, perfect for breakfast or dessert.
- Ultimate Soft Pumpkin Cookies {Melt-in-your-Mouth}: Experience pure melt-in-your-mouth bliss with these incredibly tender cookies.
- Soft Batch Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies {Eggless too!}: A wonderful option for those seeking an egg-free pumpkin cookie.
- 50 Easy Pumpkin Dessert Recipes: A comprehensive collection to satisfy all your pumpkin cravings!
Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
By Kim Lange
Moist and yummy pumpkin chocolate chip cookies!
Average Rating: 4.45 stars from 25 votes.
Pin Recipe
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Prep Time
25 mins
Cook Time
10 mins
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Course
Dessert
Servings
30 Servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 large egg or 1/4 cup applesauce
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup + 2 Tablespoons canola oil (for extra fluffy, omit 2 tablespoons canola oil)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon or pumpkin spice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 cups all purpose flour
- 1 ⅓ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line cookie sheets with parchment paper or spray with non-stick spray.
- Using a whisk, beat pumpkin, egg, sugars, oil, vanilla, and cinnamon all together in a bowl, until blended well.
- In another bowl, add salt, baking soda, baking powder, and flour together in a mixing bowl and then add to the wet mixture and mix together until just combined.
- Stir in the chocolate chips.
- Using a small scoop or rounded tablespoon measure, drop onto cookie sheets – 12 cookies per baking sheet. The cookies will spread a little.
- Bake cookies on parchment-lined baking sheet for 10-13 minutes.
- Remove from tray and let cool on a wire rack.
Notes
Recipe has been updated.
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Keyword
chocolate chips, classic cookies, pumpkin
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