Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

If you’re dreaming of the perfect autumn treat to cozy up with, look no further than this Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe. It brings together the warm, spiced notes of pumpkin pie spice with melty pockets of chocolate chips, all wrapped up in a soft, chewy cookie. The subtle nuttiness from browned butter and the rich pumpkin puree create a depth of flavor that’s both comforting and exciting. These cookies are just the thing to bake when you want to fill your home with the scent of fall and share a slice of seasonal joy with friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are deceptively simple but each one plays a crucial role in crafting the ultimate balance of flavor, texture, and that inviting fall color you see in these Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe. From rich browned butter to perfectly spiced pumpkin, every component enhances the cookies in a unique way.

• Unsalted Butter (1 cup / 226 g): Browning the butter adds a nutty depth that elevates the cookie beyond ordinary.
• Canned Pumpkin (15 oz.): The star ingredient offering moisture, earthiness, and that lovable pumpkin flavor.
• All Purpose Flour (2 cups / 240 g): Provides the structure needed for soft yet sturdy cookies.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice (1 teaspoon): A cozy blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves that defines the season.
• Baking Soda (¾ teaspoon): Helps the cookies rise just right for a chewy texture.
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances all the warm spices.
• Light Brown Sugar (1¼ cup / 250 g): Brings moisture and a subtle caramel flavor for softness.
• Granulated Sugar (¼ cup / 50 g): Adds a touch of crunch and sweetness contrast.
• Large Egg Yolks (2, room temperature): Enrich the dough with creaminess and tenderness.
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Deepens flavor and rounds out the pumpkin and spice.
• Chocolate Chips (1 cup / 170 g plus extra for topping): Melty and decadent, they add a sweet surprise in every bite.

How to Make Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Butter to Perfection

Start by melting your butter gently on low heat. Keep stirring as it foams and then browns, releasing a rich, nutty aroma. This step is essential because it adds a complex, toasted flavor that turns a good cookie into a great one. Once browned, cool the butter first at room temperature and then chill it briefly in the fridge.

Step 2: Drain the Pumpkin Puree

Next, you want to concentrate the pumpkin flavor without adding extra moisture that could make your cookies cakey. Spread the puree between layers of paper towels and press to remove excess liquid until you are left with about half a cup. This ensures the cookies stay perfectly tender but not soggy.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, and salt in a bowl. This dry mixture brings the warm spices upfront and ensures every cookie bakes evenly with just the right lift.

Step 4: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk the cooled browned butter with both sugars until creamy. Add in the room temperature egg yolks, vanilla extract, and the drained pumpkin puree. This mixture will be lush and smooth, forming the flavorful base of your cookie dough.

Step 5: Bring it All Together

Gradually incorporate the dry mix into the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined for tender cookies and then gently fold in the chocolate chips. Resist over-mixing here to keep the texture soft and chewy.

Step 6: Chill and Shape the Dough

Cover your dough and refrigerate it for 30 to 60 minutes to help flavors meld and control spread during baking. When ready, scoop dough into 2-tablespoon-sized balls on parchment-lined sheets, spaced generously apart. Add extra chocolate chips on top for that irresistible look and extra chocolate hit.

Step 7: Bake and Perfect

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 9 to 11 minutes. The edges will be set while the centers remain just puffed and soft. Use a biscuit cutter to gently round out any misshapen cookies while warm to keep them picture-perfect. Let them cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack so they finish setting without losing their chewy texture.

How to Serve Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over warm cookies for a sophisticated contrast. A light dusting of cinnamon sugar also enhances the autumnal spice beautifully. For a decadent touch, drizzle melted white chocolate or caramel sauce just before serving.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a big mug of creamy chai latte or a frothy pumpkin spice latte for the ultimate seasonal snack. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or cinnamon whipped cream also makes a lovely companion for an indulgent dessert plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe on a rustic wooden board alongside mini pumpkins and fall leaves to create a warm visual feast. Stack them with parchment paper layers tied with twine for gifting. Or sandwich a layer of pumpkin cheesecake or cream cheese frosting between two cookies for a festive twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Adding a slice of bread to the container helps maintain softness by absorbing excess moisture.

Freezing

These cookies freeze beautifully. Pop them in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature for soft, fresh-baked taste.

Reheating

Warm leftover cookies for 10 to 15 seconds in the microwave or 5 minutes in a 325°F (165°C) oven to revive that freshly baked softness and melty chocolate goodness. They’re just as delightful warm as they are cooled.

FAQs

Can I substitute fresh pumpkin for canned?

For the best results in this Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe, canned pumpkin puree is recommended because it has a smooth, consistent texture. Fresh pumpkin can be used if cooked and pureed properly, but you may need to adjust moisture levels carefully.

What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?

You can easily mix your own by combining cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves in proportions to your taste. This lets you customize the spice profile without losing that quintessential pumpkin cookie flavor.

Can I use regular butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce or omit any added salt in the recipe if you use salted butter to avoid an overly salty cookie. Unsalted butter lets you control seasoning more precisely.

Are these cookies cakey or chewy?

Thanks to the browned butter, pumpkin puree, and balanced sugars, this Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe yields soft, chewy cookies with just a slight tender crumb, not cakey at all.

Can I add nuts to the dough?

Absolutely! Chopped pecans or walnuts complement the pumpkin and chocolate beautifully, adding a lovely crunch and extra autumnal flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe is a slice of fall happiness you can bake anytime you crave warmth, spice, and chocolate all in one bite. I promise once you try it, these cookies will quickly become a beloved staple during chilly days and holiday gatherings. So grab your ingredients and get ready to fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of pumpkin spice magic!

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