If you're looking for a cookie that captures the essence of fall with a delightful twist, these Old-Fashioned Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are your answer. They combine the classic warmth of pumpkin and spices with the indulgent taste of chocolate, making them a hit at any gathering.
Butter is the base of our cookie dough, providing richness and a tender texture. Using unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness. The combination of granulated sugar and brown sugar gives the cookies their perfect sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor from the brown sugar. Canned pumpkin puree not only gives these cookies their distinctive flavor but also adds moisture, ensuring they're wonderfully soft. The egg helps to bind the ingredients together, while vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile.
The all-purpose flour provides structure, while baking soda and baking powder work together to give the cookies lift and a slight rise. The spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves—are essential for that classic pumpkin spice taste. A pinch of salt balances the flavors, and finally, semi-sweet chocolate chips add a delicious, melty contrast to the warm spices.
These cookies are delightful on their own but can be elevated by serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert. They’re also a great addition to a fall-themed dessert tray alongside apple pie bars and caramel popcorn. If you're hosting a gathering, consider pairing them with a warm cup of spiced chai tea or mulled cider to amplify the seasonal flavors.
First, set the stage by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and don't stick. In a large bowl, mix together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Aim for a light and fluffy consistency, which takes a few minutes of beating.
Next, add in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until it's all well combined. The mixture might look a bit curdled at first, but keep mixing until smooth. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, or your cookies might turn out tough.
Stir in the chocolate chips, distributing them evenly through the dough. Use a spoon to drop dollops of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to give them room to spread. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes. You'll know they're done when the edges start to turn golden brown. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial for them to firm up properly.
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