Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Moist and delicious, Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating fall, or simply indulging in a sweet craving, these cookies deliver a delightful mix of pumpkin goodness and rich chocolate. Their soft texture and warm spices make them an irresistible choice for dessert lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these cookies in no time.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and chocolate creates a unique taste that will leave everyone wanting more.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in with a cup of tea or coffee.
• Healthy Twist: Using pumpkin adds moisture and flavor while keeping the cookies light and fluffy.
• Batch Friendly: This recipe yields 30 cookies, making it great for sharing or freezing for later.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies efficiently, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These allow you to combine your ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
• Whisk: A whisk helps to blend wet ingredients smoothly, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
• Baking sheets: Using quality baking sheets helps cookies bake evenly, preventing burning.
• Parchment paper: This non-stick surface makes cookie removal easy and cleanup hassle-free.

Ingredients

Moist and yummy pumpkin chocolate chip cookies!

For the Cookie Dough

• 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
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 cups all purpose flour
• 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). Line cookie sheets with parchment paper or spray them with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine the pumpkin puree, egg, granulated sugar, brown sugar, canola oil, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
2. Use a whisk to blend everything together until well mixed.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Add the salt, baking soda, baking powder, and flour.
2. Stir together until combined.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gently add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture:
1. Mix until just combined; avoid over-mixing as this can affect texture.

Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips

Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 6: Scoop onto Baking Sheets

Using a small scoop or rounded tablespoon:
1. Drop dollops of dough onto your prepared cookie sheets—about 12 per sheet since they will spread slightly.

Step 7: Bake Your Cookies

Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for about:
10–13 minutes or until lightly golden at the edges.

Step 8: Cool Down

Once baked:
1. Remove from trays and let cool on wire racks before serving.

Enjoy your deliciously moist Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies!

How to Serve Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these cookies can be served in various ways to enhance your experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing, milk complements the sweetness of the cookies and helps balance the flavors.

Warm with Ice Cream

• Serve warm cookies topped with vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a delicious dessert that melts in your mouth.

Accompanied by Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these cookies with a cup of coffee or herbal tea for a comforting afternoon snack.

Decorated with Nuts

• Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top before baking for added texture and flavor.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange cookies on a beautiful platter with other seasonal treats, making it perfect for entertaining guests.

How to Perfect Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

To achieve the best results with your Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies, consider these helpful tips for baking success.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure that your baking powder and spices are fresh for optimal flavor and rise.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level off for accurate measurements. This prevents dry cookies.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough until just combined to keep cookies soft and chewy.
• Chill Dough if Needed: If your kitchen is warm, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to maintain shape.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; remove them when edges are light golden brown for best texture.
• Store Properly: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies can create an inviting dessert spread. Here are some delicious options:

1. Fruit Salad
   A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Cheese Platter
   Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda to complement the rich flavors of pumpkin and chocolate.

3. Caramel Sauce
   Drizzle caramel sauce over warm cookies or serve on the side for dipping, enhancing their sweetness.

4. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and fruit alongside the cookies for a delightful textural contrast.

5. Hot Cocoa
   A warm mug of hot cocoa pairs wonderfully, especially during colder months, making it feel cozy.

6. Spiced Chai Latte
   The warm spices in chai enhance the flavors of pumpkin while providing a comforting beverage option.

7. Pumpkin Pie Smoothie
   Blend pumpkin puree with yogurt and spices for a complementary drink that echoes cookie flavors.

8. Nut Butter Spread
   Offer almond or peanut butter as a dip to add another layer of flavor to your cookie experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking cookies can be tricky, but avoiding these common mistakes will help you make perfect Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies every time.

• Using too much flour: This can lead to dry cookies. Always measure flour accurately by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off.
• Not mixing wet and dry ingredients properly: If you don’t combine the mixtures adequately, your cookies may not have a uniform texture. Mix until just combined to keep them moist.
• Overbaking the cookies: Cookies can continue to cook after they’re removed from the oven. Keep an eye on them and take them out when they are lightly golden.
• Skipping parchment paper: Baking without it can result in sticking and uneven baking. Always line your baking sheets for best results.
• Ignoring cooling time: Allowing cookies to cool on a wire rack helps maintain their texture. Don’t skip this step or they’ll become soggy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week to keep them fresh.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent them from sticking together.

Freezing Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

• You can freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months.
• Use a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper.

Reheating Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5–7 minutes for that freshly baked taste.
• Microwave: Heat each cookie in 10-second intervals until warm. Be careful not to overheat as they can become tough.
• Stovetop: Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat for about 1 minute per side, covered with a lid.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies.

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

To achieve softer cookies, ensure you don’t overmix the batter and bake them just until set. Adding extra pumpkin puree can also help with moisture.

Can I substitute the chocolate chips?

Yes! You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate or even white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile in your Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies.

What’s the difference between using an egg and applesauce?

Using applesauce instead of an egg will give your cookies a slightly different texture, making them denser and adding sweetness. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a lower-fat version.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This will add some nuttiness but may change the texture slightly.

Final Thoughts

These Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize them by adding nuts or dried fruits. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or as a delightful treat later, they’re sure to impress friends and family alike. Give this recipe a try!