Soft & Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that perfectly captures the spirit of fall, you’ve come to the right place! These Soft & Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are a family favorite in my house. They combine the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin spice with the delightful richness of chocolate. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive gathering, these cookies make any occasion feel special.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to whip up a batch. The dough comes together quickly, and before you know it, your kitchen will be filled with an irresistible aroma. Plus, these cookies are bound to become a hit with both kids and adults alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This recipe is straightforward and quick, making it perfect for baking novices and experts alike.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves cookies! These soft and chewy delights will have your loved ones coming back for seconds.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Chill the dough ahead of time for even better flavor and texture, making them great for meal prep.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and chocolate creates a unique taste that’s both comforting and indulgent.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create these scrumptious Soft & Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Let’s gather everything we need!

For the Dough

• 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

For the Chocolate

• 1 cup finely chopped chocolate bar or chocolate chips

Variations

This Soft & Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe is flexible! Feel free to get creative with your cookie creations.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
• Use Different Chips: Swap out chocolate chips for butterscotch or white chocolate chips for a new twist.
• Mix in Dried Fruit: Add raisins or dried cranberries for a chewy texture that complements the cookies beautifully.
• Spice it Up: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger for an extra kick.

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 ensures that all your dry ingredients are evenly distributed before mixing them with the wet ingredients.

Step 2: Cream Butter & Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream the cold unsalted butter with granulated sugar and light brown sugar for about 2-4 minutes until it’s light, fluffy, and pale. Scraping down the sides of the bowl helps incorporate all ingredients well so that every bite is just as delicious as the last!

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Beat in the egg yolks and vanilla extract until they’re fully incorporated. Then gently mix in the pumpkin puree on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix here; we want those cookies to stay soft and tender!

Step 4: Combine Wet & Dry

Gradually add your whisked dry ingredients into the wet mixture using the lowest speed on your mixer. Mix only until there are no more visible flour streaks; overmixing can lead to tough cookies which we definitely want to avoid!

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate

Using a sturdy spatula, gently fold in your chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. This ensures each cookie has pockets of melty chocolate goodness!

Step 6: Chill Dough (Recommended)

For best results, cover your bowl tightly with plastic wrap and chill the cookie dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours. Chilling enhances both texture and flavor – trust me on this one!

Step 7: Preheat Oven & Prep Sheets

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 8: Scoop & Place Dough

Using a medium cookie scoop (about 1.5-2 tablespoons), drop rounded balls of dough onto your prepared baking sheets. Keep about two inches of space between each ball; this allows them room to spread while baking.

Step 9: Bake Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven for about 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are set and lightly golden brown while still soft in the centers. Avoid overbaking to maintain that delightful moisture!

Step 10: Cool & Enjoy

Once baked, remove them from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for about five minutes before transferring them carefully to a wire rack to cool completely. Store any leftovers (if there are any!) in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days.

Happy baking! You’re going to fall head over heels for these Soft & Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies!

Pro Tips for Making Soft & Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Baking is all about the little details, and these tips will help you achieve cookie perfection!

• Chill Your Dough: Allowing the dough to chill not only enhances the flavors but also helps in achieving a thicker cookie that stays chewy, preventing them from spreading too much while baking.

• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level the flour instead of scooping directly from the bag. This prevents you from adding too much flour, which can lead to dry cookies.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter and pumpkin puree are at room temperature before mixing. This creates a smoother batter and better incorporation of ingredients, resulting in tender cookies.

• Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined when adding the dry ingredients. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, leading to tougher cookies rather than the desired soft and chewy texture.

• Watch Baking Time Closely: Every oven is different! Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; pulling them out when they’re slightly underbaked ensures they’ll remain soft once cooled.

How to Serve Soft & Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

These cookies are not only delicious but also delightful to present! Here are some fun ideas for serving them that will surely impress your friends and family.

Garnishes

• Sprinkle of Sea Salt: A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of each warm cookie adds a fancy touch and enhances the chocolate flavor.

• Powdered Sugar Dusting: A gentle dusting of powdered sugar just before serving can elevate their appearance and add a touch of sweetness without overwhelming the pumpkin flavor.

Side Dishes

• Pumpkin Spice Latte: Pair these cookies with a warm pumpkin spice latte for a cozy fall treat that complements their flavors perfectly.

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream next to a warm cookie makes for an indulgent dessert that balances the spices beautifully.

• Hot Apple Cider: The warmth and sweetness of spiced apple cider create a comforting combination alongside these cookies, perfect for chilly autumn evenings.

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A light side of fresh fruit salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors and textures of the cookies, making for a well-rounded snack or dessert.

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

Make Ahead and Storage

These Soft & Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy fall flavors anytime! Whether you want to bake a batch in advance or save some for later, this recipe has you covered.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the fridge where they can last about a week.

Freezing

• Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy cookies warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave each cookie for 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about these delicious cookies!

Can I use pumpkin puree instead of canned pumpkin in the Soft & Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Absolutely! Just make sure your homemade pumpkin puree is well-drained and not too watery. This will help maintain the cookie’s texture.

How do I achieve the best texture with my Soft & Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Chilling the dough is key! It helps develop flavor and ensures that your cookies remain soft and chewy after baking.

Can I substitute chocolate chips in the Soft & Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Yes! Feel free to use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate chips. You could also try adding nuts or dried fruits for extra flavor.

What can I do if my Soft & Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies turn out too dry?

If your cookies are dry, it might be due to overbaking. Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking time. They should look slightly underbaked when you take them out; they’ll continue to firm up as they cool.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Soft & Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies as much as I do! They encapsulate the essence of fall with every bite, bringing warmth and joy into any gathering. Don’t hesitate to share them with loved ones or savor them yourself with a cup of tea. Happy baking!