Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Moist and yummy Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion! These cookies blend the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices with sweet chocolate chips, creating a delightful dessert that will impress friends and family. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a gathering, or simply indulging yourself, this recipe is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and chocolate chips creates a rich and satisfying taste that everyone will love.
• Simple Ingredients: With common pantry staples, these cookies are easy to whip up at any time.
• Perfectly Moist: Thanks to the pumpkin puree, these cookies stay soft and moist, making them irresistible.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a snack or dessert; they pair wonderfully with coffee or tea!
• Great for Sharing: Make a big batch to share with friends or bring to potlucks; they’re always a hit!

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cookie sheets
• Parchment paper or non-stick spray
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients easily without making a mess.
• Whisk: Helps incorporate air into the batter for light, fluffy cookies.
• Cookie sheets: Provides an even surface for baking that ensures consistent results.
• Wire rack: Allows cookies to cool properly without becoming soggy.

Ingredients

Moist and yummy pumpkin chocolate chip cookies!

For the Cookie Base

• 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

For the Leavening and Flour Mixture

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 cups all purpose flour

For the Sweet Addition

• 1 1/3 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

How to Make Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare your cookie sheets by lining them with parchment paper or spraying them with non-stick spray.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the following until well blended:
1. Canned pumpkin puree
2. Egg (or applesauce)
3. Granulated sugar
4. Brown sugar
5. Canola oil
6. Vanilla extract
7. Ground cinnamon

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, combine:
1. Salt
2. Baking soda
3. Baking powder
4. All-purpose flour

Add this mixture to the wet ingredients gradually until just combined.

Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips into the cookie dough.

Step 5: Scoop onto Cookie Sheets

Using a small scoop or rounded tablespoon measure, drop about 12 cookies per baking sheet. The cookies will spread slightly while baking.

Step 6: Bake Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven for 10-13 minutes until edges are lightly golden.

Step 7: Cool

Remove from tray and let cool on a wire rack before enjoying your delicious Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies!

How to Serve Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

These delightful cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy afternoon treat. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing that enhances the rich flavors of the cookies. Choose whole or almond milk for a creamy contrast.

Warm from the Oven

• Serve these cookies warm for a melty chocolate experience. Simply bake them and enjoy right away!

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for an indulgent dessert. Consider using dairy-free options if desired.

As Part of a Cookie Platter

• Arrange your pumpkin chocolate chip cookies alongside other baked goods for a colorful and inviting dessert table.

With Ice Cream

• Pair these cookies with vanilla or pumpkin spice ice cream for a delicious sundae twist.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle caramel sauce over the top before serving.

How to Perfect Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Creating the perfect pumpkin chocolate chip cookies takes a little finesse. Here are some tips to ensure they come out just right.

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality canned pumpkin puree or make your own from fresh pumpkins.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Stir until just combined to keep your cookies soft and tender.

• Chill the dough: If time allows, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking to enhance texture and flavor.

• Check baking times: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake; every oven is different, so adjust as necessary.

• Store properly: To maintain moisture, store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.

Best Side Dishes for Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies can be complemented with various delightful side dishes that add variety to your dessert table. Here are some great options:

1. Cinnamon Apples: Sauté sliced apples in cinnamon and sugar for a warm side that pairs perfectly.

2. Pumpkin Spice Latte: Brew this seasonal favorite to enhance the pumpkin flavors in your cookies.

3. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like Brie or Gouda along with crackers for a savory contrast.

4. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the richness of the cookies, making it lighter.

5. Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai tea complement the flavors in your pumpkin chocolate chip cookies beautifully.

6. Nut Mix: A selection of spiced nuts offers a crunchy texture and savory notes alongside sweet desserts.

7. Caramel Dip: Serve sliced fruits or pretzels with caramel dip for added sweetness that pairs well with your cookies.

8. Chocolate Fondue: Create an interactive dessert experience by dipping fruits and marshmallows into warm chocolate fondue alongside your cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using too much flour: This can lead to dry cookies. Always measure flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife.
• Not mixing wet ingredients thoroughly: Ensure that the pumpkin, sugars, and oil are well combined before adding dry ingredients. This helps achieve a uniform texture.
• Overbaking: Cookies continue to cook after being removed from the oven. Check them at the lower end of the baking time for best results.
• Skipping parchment paper: Baking without parchment can cause cookies to stick. Always line your cookie sheets for easy removal and cleanup.
• Not chilling the dough: If your dough feels too sticky, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. This helps in shaping and prevents excessive spreading during baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes until soft.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds; this keeps them moist.
• Stovetop: Place cookies on a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping once.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies.

How do I make my Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies more flavorful?

You can add spices like nutmeg or cloves along with cinnamon. A pinch of ginger also enhances the flavor profile!

Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

Yes, you can replace the granulated sugar with coconut sugar or use applesauce instead of oil for a lighter version.

How should I store my Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

What makes these Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies special?

These cookies combine the warmth of pumpkin and spices with rich chocolate chips, making them a delightful fall treat!

Final Thoughts

Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them by adding nuts or using different types of chocolate chips. They’re perfect for gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the moist, sweet flavors that everyone will love!