Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

If you’re looking for the ultimate fall treat, these Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies will steal your heart! They’re the perfect blend of soft and gooey, with just the right amount of melty chocolate that keeps you coming back for more. Imagine cozy evenings wrapped up in a blanket, a good book in hand, and a warm cookie fresh from the oven—pure bliss!

This recipe is a go-to for family gatherings or busy weeknights when you need a sweet pick-me-up. The blend of warm spices and pumpkin makes these cookies so comforting, and trust me, they will become a favorite in your home too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Make: With simple steps and ingredients, you’ll whip these up in no time!
• Family-Friendly Delight: Kids and adults alike adore the combination of pumpkin and chocolate.
• Perfectly Chewy Texture: The secret? Brown butter and blotted pumpkin create that signature chewiness we all crave.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the dough ahead of time and bake it fresh whenever you’re ready!
• Irresistible Flavor: Each bite is bursting with warm spices that scream autumn.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These chewy pumpkin chocolate chip cookies are made with simple, wholesome ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 2/3 cups + 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

This recipe is quite flexible! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Nuts: For some crunch, throw in a half cup of chopped walnuts or pecans.
• Mix Up the Chips: Use white chocolate chips or peanut butter chips instead of regular chocolate for a twist!
• Spice It Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
• Make it Vegan: Swap out the butter for coconut oil and use flax eggs instead of egg yolks.

How to Make Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). This step is crucial because starting with a hot oven ensures your cookies bake evenly from the moment they hit the sheet!

Step 2: Brown the Butter

In a large stainless steel pan, brown your butter. As it cooks, it will foam and crackle—this is totally normal! Stir occasionally to prevent burning. When you see those lovely brown bits forming at the bottom and catch that nutty aroma, it’s time to remove it from heat. Let it cool down in a glass measuring bowl until it reaches about 75°F.

Step 3: Blot Your Pumpkin

Spread your pumpkin puree on a plate and press paper towels into it to absorb excess moisture. This step helps ensure your cookies are chewy instead of cakey—it’s all about that texture! Keep blotting until it feels like soft playdough.

Step 4: Mix Sugars with Butter

Once your butter has cooled, whisk in both sugars for one minute until combined. The mixture should look like pale wet sand—this helps create that chewy texture we love!

Step 5: Incorporate Wet Ingredients

Whisk in egg yolks, vanilla extract, and your dried pumpkin puree until everything is well combined. This adds depth to the flavor profile.

Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gently fold in flour, pumpkin spice, baking soda, salt, and chocolate chips until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want those cookies tender!

Step 7: Scoop Your Dough

Using a 3-tablespoon cookie scoop, roll the dough into balls between your palms. Place them on your lined baking trays spaced about 2-3 inches apart. For those gorgeous pools of melted chocolate, press larger pieces of chocolate on top before baking!

Step 8: Bake Them Up

Bake one tray at a time for about 9–13 minutes until the edges are golden brown but still slightly underbaked in the center. Right after they come out of the oven, use a large round cookie cutter to shape them into perfect rounds while they’re still warm.

Step 9: Cool & Enjoy!

Let them cool on a wire rack completely before digging in. Store any leftovers (if there are any!) in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days—or freeze some dough balls for future cravings!

Enjoy every chewy bite of these delightful cookies!

Pro Tips for Making Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Baking these cookies is a delightful experience, and a few handy tips can make them even better!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Starting with room temperature butter, pumpkin puree, and eggs helps create a smoother dough that incorporates air better, leading to softer cookies.

• Don’t skip the browning step: Browning the butter adds a nutty flavor that elevates your cookies. It also contributes to the chewy texture, setting these cookies apart from others.

• Measure flour correctly: For the best results, spoon flour into your measuring cup and level off with a knife. This prevents packing and ensures you don’t end up with dry cookies.

• Chill your dough if necessary: If your dough feels too warm or sticky, chilling it for about 30 minutes can help firm it up, making it easier to scoop and bake evenly.

• Watch your baking time: Each oven is different, so keep an eye on your cookies in the last few minutes of baking. You want them golden at the edges but still soft in the center for that perfect chewy texture.

How to Serve Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Once you’ve baked these delicious chewy pumpkin chocolate chip cookies, it’s time to think about how to serve them! Whether you’re enjoying them at home or sharing with friends, presentation can add a special touch.

Garnishes

• A sprinkle of sea salt: Just a pinch on top of each cookie right after they come out of the oven enhances the flavors and adds a nice contrast to the sweetness.
• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of this creamy topping adds richness and complements the pumpkin flavor beautifully. It’s also a great dairy-free option!

Side Dishes

• Pumpkin Spice Latte: This warm beverage pairs perfectly with your cookies and brings out those cozy fall flavors.
• Apple slices with almond butter: The crunch of fresh apples dipped in creamy almond butter makes for a refreshing side that balances out the sweetness of the cookies.
• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside warm cookies creates an irresistible dessert duo that everyone will love.
• Hot chocolate: A rich cup of hot chocolate is a classic pairing that warms you up on chilly days while enhancing the comforting vibe of pumpkin treats.

Enjoy these tips and serving suggestions as you indulge in your delightful chewy pumpkin chocolate chip cookies!

Make Ahead and Storage

These chewy pumpkin chocolate chip cookies are perfect for meal prep! Whether you’re planning a treat for a gathering or just want to enjoy them throughout the week, here’s how to store and handle them.

Storing Leftovers

• Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator, where they can last up to a week.

Freezing

• You can freeze the cookie dough balls before baking. Place them on a baking tray until firm, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Cookie dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just bring it to room temperature before baking.

Reheating

• To enjoy your cookies warm, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• If you want a crispier texture, reheat in an oven preheated to 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies that might help you out!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned for Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Yes! If you prefer fresh pumpkin, make sure to cook and puree it thoroughly, then drain it well so it’s not too watery.

What makes these Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies different from regular cookies?

The secret lies in browning the butter and drying out the pumpkin puree. This gives them that signature chewy texture without being cakey—perfect for fall!

How should I store my Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days or refrigerate them for extended freshness. You can also freeze the dough!

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to my cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to add walnuts or pecans if you like a little crunch along with your chocolate chips.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these chewy pumpkin chocolate chip cookies as much as I do! They bring together the warmth of fall spices and the sweetness of chocolate, making each bite truly special. Don’t hesitate to share this recipe with friends and family—they’re sure to love it! Happy baking!