Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Moist and delicious, Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for any occasion! These cookies combine the rich flavors of pumpkin with the sweetness of chocolate chips, making them an irresistible treat for dessert lovers. Whether you’re celebrating fall, hosting a gathering, or simply craving a sweet snack, these cookies will delight everyone who tries them.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just minutes, letting you enjoy delicious cookies in no time.
• Perfectly Moist: The addition of pumpkin puree ensures your cookies stay soft and moist, making each bite heavenly.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy these cookies as a dessert, snack, or even breakfast on the go!
• Kid-Friendly: With their sweet flavor and fun texture, they make a great treat for kids and adults alike.
• Fall-Inspired Flavor: The warm spices used in this recipe capture the essence of autumn, bringing seasonal joy to your kitchen.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Below are some must-have items to prepare before you start baking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: A sturdy mixing bowl helps combine ingredients without spills or mess.
• Whisk: Using a whisk makes it easy to blend wet ingredients thoroughly for even flavor distribution.
• Baking sheets: Quality baking sheets ensure even cooking and prevent sticking when lined with parchment paper.

Ingredients

For these delightful Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies, you will need:

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). Prepare your cookie sheets by lining them with parchment paper or spraying them with non-stick spray.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, use a whisk to beat together:
* Pumpkin puree
* Egg (or applesauce)
* Granulated sugar
* Brown sugar
* Canola oil
* Vanilla extract
* Ground cinnamon

Mix until well blended.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, combine:
* Salt
* Baking soda
* Baking powder
* All-purpose flour

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing.

Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips

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

Step 5: Scoop Onto Baking Sheets

Using a small scoop or rounded tablespoon measure, drop dough onto prepared cookie sheets. Aim for about 12 cookies per baking sheet since they will spread slightly while baking.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for about 10–13 minutes or until they are lightly golden around the edges.

Step 7: Cool Before Serving

Once baked, remove from trays and let cool on a wire rack before enjoying.

These Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies yield approximately 30 servings—perfect for sharing!

How to Serve Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Serving Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies can enhance your dessert experience. Whether for a cozy gathering or a festive occasion, consider these delightful serving ideas to make your cookies even more enjoyable.

Pair with Hot Beverages

• Coffee: The rich flavor of coffee complements the sweetness of pumpkin and chocolate perfectly.
• Tea: A warm cup of chai or herbal tea adds a soothing touch to your cookie treat.
• Hot Cocoa: For an extra indulgence, serve your cookies with a mug of creamy hot cocoa.

Create a Cookie Platter

• Assorted Cookies: Include a variety of cookies alongside your pumpkin chocolate chip cookies for a colorful display.
• Fruits: Fresh fruits like apple slices or grapes can balance the sweetness and provide freshness.
• Nuts: Adding some spiced nuts can give guests a crunchy contrast to the chewy cookies.

Add Toppings

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream can elevate the dessert experience, making it feel more decadent.
• Ice Cream: Serve warm cookies with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for an irresistible dessert combo.

How to Perfect Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

To achieve the perfect texture and flavor in your Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies, follow these handy tips.

• Boldly use fresh ingredients: Ensure that your pumpkin puree is fresh for the best flavor and moisture.
• Boldly measure accurately: Use precise measurements for flour and sugar to maintain the right balance in texture.
• Boldly chill the dough: Letting your cookie dough rest in the fridge for 30 minutes can enhance flavors and improve texture.
• Boldly bake in batches: Baking in smaller batches helps maintain consistent heat in the oven for evenly baked cookies.
• Boldly watch baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies during baking; remove them when edges are lightly golden for that perfect softness.

Best Side Dishes for Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Pairing side dishes with Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies can create a delightful dessert spread. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy complement to chewy cookies.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses pairs well, offering savory notes against sweet flavors.
4. Spiced Nuts: Roasted nuts with spices provide crunch and contrast that enhance the cookie experience.
5. Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of pumpkin soup brings out similar flavors, creating a cohesive fall-themed meal.
6. Chili: For something savory, chili provides warmth and spice, making it a unique pairing with sweet treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies is simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final product.

• Skipping the Preheat: Not preheating your oven can lead to uneven baking. Always preheat to 375°F before you start mixing your ingredients.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can make the cookies tough. Combine wet and dry ingredients just until no flour streaks remain.
• Using Expired Ingredients: Old baking powder or baking soda can ruin your cookies’ rise. Check expiration dates before use.
• Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Scooping directly from the bag can pack the flour down and lead to dry cookies. Use a spoon to fill your measuring cup and level it off.
• Ignoring Cooling Time: Letting cookies cool on a wire rack helps maintain their texture. Remove them from the baking sheet promptly after baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Freeze in a single layer on a cookie sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.

Reheating Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5 minutes for best results.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie for about 10-15 seconds; check frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat for 1-2 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree. Just cook and blend it until smooth.

How do I make my cookies softer?

For softer cookies, add an extra tablespoon of canola oil or reduce baking time slightly.

What can I substitute for chocolate chips?

Try using nuts or dried fruit if you want a different flavor profile!

How should I store leftover cookies?

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

Final Thoughts

Old Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them by adding nuts, different spices, or using dark chocolate chips instead. These cookies are perfect for fall gatherings or any time you’re craving a sweet treat. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy every bite!