Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that captures the essence of fall, these Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are just what you need! Imagine biting into a soft, gooey cookie packed with warm spices and melty chocolate. This recipe is a cherished favorite of mine, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. They’re not just cookies; they’re a hug in dessert form!

These chewy delights are incredibly easy to whip up, making them an excellent choice for both seasoned bakers and those new to the kitchen. Plus, the combination of pumpkin and chocolate makes them an irresistible treat that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: The steps are simple and straightforward, allowing you to bake these cookies without any fuss.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike adore the flavor of pumpkin and chocolate together, making these cookies a hit at any gathering.
• Perfect for sharing: Bake a batch to bring to parties or share with neighbors—everyone will want some!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the dough in advance, so you’re ready to bake fresh cookies anytime.
• Delicious flavor: The blend of pumpkin spice and chocolate creates a taste sensation that’s both comforting and festive.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make our delicious cookies! Each one plays an important role in creating that perfect chewy texture.

For the Cookie Dough

• 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 (See notes below for measuring)
• 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

Variations

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility! Here are some fun ways to switch things up:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Use different chocolates: Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark or white chocolate for a unique twist.
• Incorporate oats: Add 1/2 cup of rolled oats for added texture.
• Try different spices: Experiment with cinnamon or nutmeg if you want to change up the spice profile.

How to Make Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line two baking trays with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick!

Step 2: Brown the Butter

In a large stainless steel pan, brown the butter. As it cooks, it will foam and crackle—this is normal! Stir occasionally so it doesn’t burn. When it smells nutty with brown bits at the bottom, remove it from heat. Let it cool in the fridge until it reaches about 75°F. Cool butter is key here; it helps create that chewy texture we love!

Step 3: Prepare the Pumpkin Puree

Spread your pumpkin puree on a plate and press paper towels into it to soak up excess liquid. Repeat this until the pumpkin feels like soft playdough. This step helps prevent soggy cookies!

Step 4: Mix Sugar and Butter

Once your butter has cooled, whisk in both sugars until they look like pale wet sand. This step adds sweetness while keeping your cookies chewy.

Step 5: Add Egg Yolks and Flavor

Whisk in egg yolks, vanilla extract, and your dried pumpkin puree until well combined. These ingredients add richness and flavor.

Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients

Fold in flour, pumpkin spice, baking soda, sea salt, and chocolate chips until just mixed. Be careful not to overmix; we want those lovely chunks of chocolate throughout!

Step 7: Scoop the Dough

Using a 3-tablespoon cookie scoop, roll dough into balls and place them on your baking trays spaced about 2-3 inches apart. If you want extra pools of melted chocolate, feel free to press larger pieces on top before baking!

Step 8: Bake Your Cookies

Bake one tray at a time for about 9-13 minutes or until edges are golden but centers are slightly underbaked—this keeps them nice and chewy! Once out of the oven, use a large round cookie cutter to gently scoot edges inward for perfect roundness.

Step 9: Cool Down

Let your cookies cool completely on a wire rack before enjoying. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days—or freeze them for later indulgence!

Now you have everything you need to create these delightful Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies! Enjoy every bite as they fill your home with warmth and flavor—happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Baking is all about the little details that can make a big difference, so here are some pro tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly chewy and delicious!

• Use cold butter: Starting with cold unsalted butter helps achieve that rich, nutty flavor when browning while allowing for a better texture in the final cookie. It keeps the dough from spreading too much in the oven.
• Don’t skip the pumpkin drying step: Pressing out excess moisture from the pumpkin puree is crucial. This prevents your cookies from becoming cakey and ensures they maintain that chewy texture you love.
• Chill the browned butter: Allowing your browned butter to cool down to around 75°F is essential. This temperature will help incorporate it smoothly with the sugars and keep your cookies chewy rather than greasy.
• Scoop and roll the dough: Using a cookie scoop and rolling the dough into balls before placing them on the baking tray helps create even-sized cookies, which bake uniformly. This way, you’ll have perfectly round and consistent treats!
• Monitor baking time closely: Every oven is different, so keeping an eye on your cookies during the last few minutes of baking is key. Baking just until the edges are golden brown ensures a chewy middle without overcooking.

How to Serve Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

These chewy pumpkin chocolate chip cookies are perfect for sharing or enjoying as a comforting treat at home. Here are some fun ideas on how to present them!

Garnishes

• Sprinkle with sea salt: A light dusting of flaky sea salt right after they come out of the oven enhances the flavor profile by balancing sweetness with a touch of savory.
• Drizzle with melted chocolate: For an extra indulgent touch, melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled cookies for a beautiful presentation and added richness.

Side Dishes

• Warm apple cider: The sweet and spicy flavors of warm apple cider pair beautifully with these cookies, creating a cozy autumn experience.
• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream alongside a warm cookie makes for a delightful dessert duo that’s hard to resist!
• Pumpkin spice latte: Enjoy these cookies with a steaming cup of pumpkin spice latte for a seasonal treat perfect for chilly days.
• Cheese platter: For a unique twist, serve these cookies alongside mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese, complementing their sweetness with savory flavors.

There you have it! A delightful way to enjoy your chewy pumpkin chocolate chip cookies while impressing family and friends with thoughtful presentation ideas. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These chewy pumpkin chocolate chip cookies are perfect for meal prep! With a few simple steps, you can have delicious treats ready to go for school lunches, snacks, or dessert cravings.

Storing Leftovers

• Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days to keep them fresh.
• If you want to extend their shelf life, consider placing parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• For freezing, shape the cookie dough into balls and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
• Freeze the dough balls for about 1 hour until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label with the date!

Reheating

• To enjoy your cookies warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 10-15 seconds for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!

FAQs

If you’re curious about making these delightful cookies, here are some common questions!

Can I make Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it’s a blend that is suitable for baking.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Adding nuts like walnuts or pecans can introduce a lovely crunch! You might also consider mixing in different spices like nutmeg or ginger for an extra flavor kick.

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree in this recipe?

It’s best to stick with plain pumpkin puree, as pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices that may alter the cookie’s texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you find joy in making these chewy pumpkin chocolate chip cookies! They’re not just delicious; they also capture the essence of cozy fall baking with their warm spices and gooey chocolate. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or keeping them all to yourself, these cookies are sure to bring smiles. Enjoy every bite and happy baking!