Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Name: Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 28 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour; 2 tsp baking powder; 3/4 tsp baking soda; 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground ginger; 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/8 tsp ground cloves; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar; 1/2 cup (110g) packed light-brown sugar; 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup (240g) canned pumpkin puree; 1 1/2 cups (255g) semi-sweet chocolate chips

Author: Lora

Published: August 27, 2025

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Introduction to Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

With the autumn breeze rustling through the trees, there’s nothing quite like the warm, comforting aroma of Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies wafting from your kitchen. It’s why I adore this recipe so much! These cookies are a perfect blend of cozy pumpkin flavors and rich chocolate, making them an ideal treat for busy days when you want to whip up something special. Whether it’s an afternoon snack for the kids or a sweet indulgence after a hectic workday, baking these cookies feels like wrapping yourself in a hug of joy and deliciousness.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

These Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are the ultimate cookie experience! They’re incredibly easy to make, which is perfect for my fellow busy moms juggling multiple tasks. Not only do they bake in just 13 minutes, but the blend of pumpkin and chocolate creates a delightful contrast that dances on your palate. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to bring the flavors of fall into your home, without requiring hours in the kitchen!

Ingredients for Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun of baking these luscious Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: This is the foundation of your cookies, providing structure and texture. For a gluten-free alternative, consider using almond flour or a gluten-free blend.
Baking powder and baking soda: These leavening agents ensure your cookies rise perfectly. They create that light and fluffy texture we love.
Ground spices: Cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves will take your cookies to cozy heights. Feel free to adjust them based on your taste preference.
Salt: This humble ingredient balances out the sweetness and enhances the flavors, bringing everything together beautifully.
Sugars: Using both granulated and light-brown sugar gives the cookies depth; brown sugar adds moisture and a lovely caramel flavor.
Vegetable oil: This keeps the cookies moist and chewy. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could use coconut oil.
Egg: The egg acts as a binder, helping all the ingredients hold together while adding richness to the cookies.
Vanilla extract: A splash of this enhances the overall flavor, creating a harmonious blend with pumpkin and chocolate.
Canned pumpkin puree: This is the star of the show! It adds moisture, flavor, and a beautiful orange hue. Be sure it’s pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips: These chocolatey morsels bring the sweet balance; feel free to use milk or dark chocolate for a twist!

Don’t forget, you’ll find the exact quantities needed for these ingredients listed at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Before you embark on your cookie adventure, preheating your oven to 350 degrees is a must. This ensures your Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies bake evenly from start to finish. While that oven warms up, line your baking sheets with silicone mats or parchment paper. This little step makes cleanup so much easier! Trust me, you’ll be grateful later when your cookies don’t stick.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

Mixing your dry ingredients is an important step that sets the stage for success. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and your warm spices—cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. This process not only evenly distributes the leavening agents but also activates the flavors, making every bite of your cookies burst with that comforting fall taste we all cherish.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, take the time to combine your granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Mixing these ingredients together until fully blended is crucial. This step not only helps the sugars dissolve, creating a lovely texture, but also allows the oil to incorporate air. Next, add your egg and vanilla extract. This magical mix will act as the creamy base for those delightful cookies!

Step 4: Add Pumpkin Puree

Now, it’s time to introduce the star of your show: the canned pumpkin puree! Gently fold it into your wet ingredient mixture. Pumpkin not only adds a beautiful color but infuses the cookies with moistness and irresistible flavor as well. The rich, creamy texture will make your batter luscious and inviting. Just wait until you smell it!

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. This step is where patience pays off! With the mixer on low speed, blend just until they’re nearly combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and nobody wants that! So, be gentle and scrape the bowl as needed, leaving some flour visible. The batter should feel thick and a bit wet; trust me, it’s going to be delightful!

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Here comes the fun part—gently folding in the semi-sweet chocolate chips! Using a rubber spatula, incorporate them evenly throughout the dough. This ensures that every cookie will get a perfect bite of chocolate goodness. Be careful not to overwork the dough; we want our cookies to be soft and chewy, with sweet spots of melted chocolate that make each bite a treat!

Step 7: Form the Cookies

Time to bring your cookies to life! Using a tablespoon, drop the cookie dough onto your prepared baking sheets. Make sure to space them about two inches apart; they’ll spread while baking. The anticipation of those soft cookies growing larger in the oven is palpable. Imagine the warm, gooey bites waiting for you to enjoy!

Step 8: Bake

With your cookies on the way to greatness, slide them into the preheated oven. Set a timer for 11 to 13 minutes. Keep an eye on them—when the edges are lightly golden and the centers appear nearly set, it’s showtime! Remember, they’ll continue to firm up while cooling, so don’t wait until they look completely done.

Step 9: Cool and Store

Once baked to perfection, allow your cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes. This helps them firm up and makes it easier to transfer. Then, gently move them to a wire rack to cool completely. To keep your cookies fresh and delicious, store them in a single layer in an airtight container. This way, they can maintain their cozy softness and warm flavors for days to come!

Tips for Success

Measure flour properly by spooning and leveling to avoid dense cookies.
Let your ingredients, especially eggs, come to room temperature for better mixing.
For an added spice kick, sprinkle a bit of extra cinnamon on top before baking.
Don’t skip the cooling time! This ensures they set up perfectly.
Enjoy them warm for that gooey chocolate experience; it’s heavenly!

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowls: Pot for glass or metal for durability.
Electric stand mixer: A hand mixer works if you don’t have one.
Baking sheets: Pans can be lined with parchment if you lack silicone mats.
Rubber spatula: A wooden spoon can be a fine substitute.
Wire rack: Use a plate if you need a cooling surface.

Variations of Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Nutty addition: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that complements the soft texture.
Gluten-free twist: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a deliciously gluten-free treat.
Spiced up: Experiment with adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or cardamom for a unique flavor kick that surprises your taste buds.
Chocolate lovers: Use dark chocolate chips or chunks for a richer chocolate flavor that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
Vegan option: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use coconut oil instead of vegetable oil.

Serving Suggestions for Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Pair these cookies with a warm cup of spiced chai or pumpkin spice latte for a cozy fall treat.
Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
Present them on a festive platter, garnished with autumn leaves for a charming touch at gatherings.

FAQs about Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

How do I store Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies?

To keep your Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps maintain their chewy texture and delightful flavor. You can also freeze them for up to three months if you’d like to save some for later. Just make sure to separate them with parchment paper!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Absolutely! You can roast and puree fresh pumpkin to use in this recipe. Just be sure to remove any excess moisture, as this can affect the cookie’s texture. Fresh pumpkin adds an authentic taste that truly shines!

What can I substitute for vegetable oil?

If you prefer a healthier option, you can replace vegetable oil with coconut oil or even unsweetened applesauce. Both alternatives maintain moisture while adding unique flavors to your Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies.

How can I enhance the pumpkin flavor?

To amplify the pumpkin flavor, consider adding a bit more pumpkin puree or increasing the ground spices, like cinnamon or nutmeg. Tossing in a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice can also create an extra layer of warmth that complements the chocolate beautifully.

Can these cookies be made ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it, covered, until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to bring the dough to room temperature before baking for the best results. Making your Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies ahead of time is a great way to save on prep during busy weeks!

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about baking Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies. Each batch fills your home with the warmth of spices and rich chocolate, creating a sweet refuge from a busy world. As you take that first bite, you’ll remember the simple joy of family and sharing. Whether you’re savoring them with your morning coffee or surprising the kids after school, these cookies are more than just a treat; they’re a celebration of fall’s essence. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the spirit of the season, and indulge in the comforting flavors that these cookies bring to your home.