Soft & Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

If you’re looking for the perfect treat to celebrate autumn, you’ve found it! These Soft & Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are not just cookies; they’re a warm hug on a chilly day. The combination of pumpkin and chocolate is simply irresistible, making them ideal for cozy evenings or family gatherings. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of tea or sharing them with friends, these cookies will quickly become a beloved favorite.

Imagine biting into one of these soft delights, where the rich chocolate melts in your mouth and the comforting spices remind you of all things fall. They are perfect for busy weeknights when you want something sweet or for festive occasions when you want to impress your guests. Trust me; once you make these cookies, they’ll be requested time and time again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, baking these cookies is a breeze.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the combination of pumpkin and chocolate in every bite!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can chill the dough ahead of time, making it easy to bake fresh cookies whenever you want.
• Deliciously Flavorful: These cookies are packed with warm spices that evoke the joy of fall.
• Perfect Texture: The result is a cookie that is both soft and chewy, creating an unforgettable experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe calls for simple, wholesome items that you probably already have in your pantry. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving that delightful flavor and texture we all love.

• 1 cup cold unsalted butter
• 2/3 cup Libby’s Pumpkin Puree, room temperature
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 2 large egg yolks, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 2/3 cup + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin spice
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1 cup finely chopped chocolate bar or chocolate chips

Variations

This Soft & Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe is flexible, allowing you to get creative in the kitchen! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add Nuts: Sprinkle in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth.
• Make It Vegan: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use flax eggs instead of egg yolks.
• Mix in Dried Fruit: Add raisins or cranberries for a fruity twist.

How to Make Soft & Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, pumpkin spice, baking soda, and fine sea salt. This step is crucial because it evenly distributes the leavening agents and spices throughout the flour. Setting this mixture aside prepares us for the next delicious steps!

Step 2: Cream Butter & Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together cold unsalted butter with granulated sugar and light brown sugar for about 2 to 4 minutes until it’s light, fluffy, and pale. Scraping down the sides ensures everything mixes well. This creaming process incorporates air into the dough, giving your cookies that wonderful soft texture.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Now it’s time to beat in those egg yolks and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Then mix in the pumpkin puree at low speed until just combined—this keeps our dough from overmixing. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so let’s keep it gentle!

Step 4: Combine Wet & Dry

Gradually add your dry mixture to the wet ingredients at the lowest speed. Mix only until flour streaks disappear—this is key for keeping our cookies tender! Remember, we want them soft & chewy!

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate

Using a sturdy spatula, gently fold in those rich chocolate chips until they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough. This step ensures every bite has that delicious chocolatey goodness we crave!

Step 6: Chill Dough (Recommended)

For best results, cover your bowl tightly with plastic wrap and chill the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours. Chilling improves both texture and flavor—trust me; it’s worth it!

Step 7: Preheat Oven & Prep Sheets

While your dough chills, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats so that our cookies won’t stick while baking!

Step 8: Scoop & Place Dough

Using a medium cookie scoop (about 1.5–2 tablespoons), drop rounded balls of dough onto prepared baking sheets about two inches apart. For that bakery-style look, gently press a few extra chocolate chips on top of each dough ball before baking.

Step 9: Bake Cookies

Place one baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 10 to12 minutes. The edges should be set and lightly golden brown while keeping those centers soft—this balance is what makes them so chewy!

Step 10: Cool & Enjoy

Once baked to perfection, remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days (if they last that long!). Enjoy these delightful treats fresh out of the oven or as snacks throughout the week!

Pro Tips for Making Soft & Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Baking cookies is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll be well on your way to achieving the perfect soft and chewy texture!

• Use Cold Butter: Starting with cold butter helps achieve the right texture. It allows for better control over how much the cookies spread during baking, resulting in a thicker, chewier cookie.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough not only enhances flavor but also firms it up, preventing excessive spreading. This step is crucial for that perfect bakery-style look and texture.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense cookies instead of light and airy ones, so take care to combine gently.

• Watch Baking Time Closely: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. Remove them from the oven when they’re slightly underbaked; they’ll continue to cook as they cool on the baking sheet.

• Store Properly: To keep your cookies fresh and chewy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also add a slice of bread to help maintain moisture!

How to Serve Soft & Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

These cookies are not just delicious; they’re also incredibly versatile for serving! Here are some creative ideas to present your Soft & Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies at gatherings or cozy nights in.

Garnishes

• Dust with Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and visual appeal, making your cookies look extra special.
• Drizzle with Dark Chocolate: A simple drizzle of melted dark chocolate can elevate the flavor profile and create an elegant presentation.

Side Dishes

• Pumpkin Spice Latte: The warm flavors of pumpkin spice in this drink complement the cookies beautifully, making for a cozy pairing.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: Serving these cookies warm alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.
• Hot Apple Cider: This classic fall beverage pairs perfectly with pumpkin flavors, adding warmth and comfort to your cookie experience.
• Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can balance out the sweetness of the cookies while offering a savory contrast that’s sure to please guests.

Enjoy baking and sharing these delightful Soft & Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies! They’re perfect for any occasion or just as an indulgent treat for yourself.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Soft & Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch in advance, ensuring a delightful treat is always on hand for snacks or gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days.
• If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• To freeze, place the cookie dough balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer the dough balls into a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
• When ready to bake, simply bake from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

Reheating

• To reheat, place cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, you can warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to restore their soft texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Soft & Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

While pumpkin pie filling is sweetened and spiced, you can use it if you adjust the sugar and spices in your recipe. However, for the best flavor and texture, stick with pure pumpkin puree.

How do I know when my Soft & Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are done baking?

Look for edges that are set and lightly golden brown while the centers remain soft. This ensures they will be chewy rather than dry!

Can I substitute other ingredients in this cookie recipe?

Yes! You can substitute margarine for butter and use dairy-free chocolate chips if you prefer a vegan option. Just keep in mind that these changes may alter the final taste slightly.

How should I store my Soft & Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for optimal freshness. If you’re not eating them within a few days, consider freezing them!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Soft & Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies as much as I do! They capture the warm essence of fall and are perfect for sharing with loved ones during cozy evenings. Treat yourself to a batch today—you won’t regret it!