Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

These Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic cookie, combining soft and chewy textures with the warm flavors of pumpkin spice. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies will elevate your fall gatherings and cozy evenings at home. The best part? This no-chill, no-mixer recipe makes it easy to whip up your favorites without any fuss!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: No need for complicated processes or tools; this recipe is straightforward and quick.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and chocolate creates a unique taste that’s both comforting and indulgent.
• Perfect for Fall: With cozy pumpkin spices, these cookies capture the essence of autumn in every bite.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare these delicious cookies, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking trays
• Parchment paper
• Large stainless steel pan
• Glass measuring bowl
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking trays: Ensure even baking and provide ample space for your cookies to spread.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Large stainless steel pan: Ideal for browning butter, giving your cookies a rich, nutty flavor.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 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 teaspoon 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

How to Make Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line two baking trays with parchment paper and set them aside.

Step 2: Brown the Butter

Brown the butter in a large stainless steel pan. As it cooks, it will foam and crackle—this is normal! Stir occasionally to prevent burning. When you see brown bits at the bottom and smell a nutty aroma, remove it from heat. Transfer just under 1 cup of browned butter into a glass measuring bowl and cool it in the fridge for about 50–60 minutes until it reaches around 75°F but remains liquid.

Step 3: Prepare Pumpkin Puree

Spread the pumpkin puree on a plate. Use paper towels to soak up excess liquid. Repeat this process until the puree feels dry yet pliable, measuring roughly 1/3 cup (75 grams).

Step 4: Mix Sugars with Butter

Once cooled, whisk together the brown sugar and granulated sugar with the cooled butter for one minute until it resembles pale wet sand.

Step 5: Add Egg Yolks and Vanilla

Whisk in egg yolks, vanilla extract, and dried pumpkin puree until well combined.

Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gently fold in the all-purpose flour, pumpkin spice, baking soda, salt, and chocolate chips until just combined.

Step 7: Scoop Dough onto Trays

Using a 3 tbsp cookie scoop, form dough balls and roll them between your palms before placing them on prepared trays spaced about 2–3 inches apart. You should get approximately 15 cookies. For extra melted chocolate pools, chop larger pieces of chocolate to place on top before baking.

Step 8: Bake Cookies

Bake one tray at a time for about 9–13 minutes or until edges turn golden brown while keeping the center slightly underbaked. After removing from the oven, use a large round cookie cutter to shape them into perfect rounds if desired. Allow cooling completely on a wire rack before enjoying!

Step 9: Store Leftovers

Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to save some dough for later, refrigerate or freeze cookie dough balls for future baking sessions!

How to Serve Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

These delightful pumpkin chocolate chip cookies are perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own. Their soft, chewy texture makes them a treat for any occasion, and they pair wonderfully with various accompaniments.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic choice, pairing these cookies with cold milk enhances their sweetness and complements the chocolate perfectly.

Warmed with Ice Cream

• Slightly warm cookies topped with vanilla ice cream create a delicious dessert. The warm cookie melts the ice cream slightly, making every bite indulgent.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of caramel sauce adds rich flavor and a touch of elegance. This sweet addition amplifies the fall essence of the cookies.

Accompanied by Coffee or Tea

• Enjoying these cookies with a hot cup of coffee or tea makes for a cozy afternoon treat. The spices in the cookies blend beautifully with your favorite warm beverage.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Arrange these cookies alongside other fall treats like apple pie or pumpkin bars for a festive dessert platter. This variety offers something for everyone at gatherings.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Achieving the perfect pumpkin chocolate chip cookies is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you master this delightful recipe.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring that your butter and eggs are at room temperature helps create a smooth dough, leading to better texture.

• Measure Flour Accurately: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off instead of scooping directly from the bag. This prevents dense cookies.

• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix just until combined to keep your cookies soft and chewy rather than tough.

• Chill the Dough if Necessary: If you find your dough too sticky, chilling it for about 30 minutes can make it easier to handle without compromising flavor.

• Watch Baking Time Closely: Every oven is different; start checking your cookies at 9 minutes to ensure they don’t overbake.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

These pumpkin chocolate chip cookies can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavor profile. Here are some great options:

1. Spiced Apple Cider
   A warm mug of spiced apple cider brings out autumn flavors that pair well with these cookies.

2. Cream Cheese Frosting
   A side of creamy frosting allows dipping or spreading, adding richness to each cookie.

3. Pumpkin Soup
   A small bowl of savory pumpkin soup offers a delightful contrast in flavors, making for an inviting meal.

4. Candied Nuts
   Sweet and crunchy candied nuts provide a nice textural counterpart that enhances each bite of cookie.

5. Cheese Plate
   A selection of mild cheeses creates balance against the sweetness of the cookies, offering a sophisticated touch.

6. Chocolate Fondue
   Serve some melted chocolate for dipping! This fun addition takes your cookie experience to another level of indulgence.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking pumpkin chocolate chip cookies can be delightful, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.

• Skipping the browning process – Browning the butter enhances flavor. Always brown the butter until it has a nutty aroma and is slightly cooled before adding to your mixture.
• Using wet pumpkin puree – Excess moisture can make cookies cakey. Make sure to dry the puree with paper towels until it resembles soft playdough.
• Not measuring flour correctly – Incorrect measurements can lead to dense cookies. Use a spoon to fluff up the flour before scooping it into your measuring cup for accuracy.
• Overmixing the dough – Overmixing can result in tough cookies. Gently fold in ingredients until just combined for a softer texture.
• Ignoring baking time – Baking too long can dry out cookies. Keep an eye on them; they should be golden brown at the edges but slightly underbaked in the center.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• If you have cookie dough, keep it wrapped in plastic wrap or a sealed container for up to 2 days.

Freezing Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• For cookie dough, scoop and freeze individual balls on a baking sheet, then store them in an airtight bag once frozen.

Reheating Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (180°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a soft treat.
• Stovetop – Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat for about 1-2 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about pumpkin chocolate chip cookies that may help you enjoy this recipe even more.

Can I use canned pumpkin puree for Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Yes, canned pumpkin puree works perfectly! Just be sure to remove excess moisture before using it.

How do I make my Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies chewier?

To achieve chewier cookies, consider adding an extra egg yolk or using less flour than recommended.

Can I substitute chocolate chips in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use chopped chocolate bars, white chocolate chips, or even dark chocolate for different flavors.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough is sticky, try chilling it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This helps firm it up and makes it easier to handle.

Can I add nuts to my Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Yes! Feel free to add walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.

Final Thoughts

These pumpkin chocolate chip cookies combine soft and chewy textures with warm pumpkin spice flavors that make them perfect for fall. They are easy to customize with different types of chocolate or nuts, ensuring everyone will love them. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try!