Who doesn’t love the warm, cozy flavors of fall? These chewy pumpkin cookies perfectly capture that feeling with every bite. They are soft, slightly spiced, and the mini chocolate chips add just the right amount of sweetness. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting into the fall baking spirit, these cookies are an absolute must-try! Plus, they’re quick to make, meaning you can enjoy these chewy delights in less than an hour (including chilling time!). Let’s dive into the recipe and explore how you can bake these flavorful treats right at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup pumpkin puree (use canned or homemade)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
Step-by-Step Directions for the Perfect Chewy Pumpkin Cookies:
Step 1: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and well combined. The mixture should look creamy.
Step 2: Add the Pumpkin and Vanilla
Next, stir in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract. Continue to whisk until the mixture is smooth and uniform. This step ensures that the pumpkin flavor is evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 3: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. This dry mixture helps the cookies rise and develop that soft, chewy texture.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to over-mix the dough as this can make the cookies tough.
Step 5: Fold in the Mini Chocolate Chips
Using a spatula, gently fold in the mini chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly spread throughout the dough.
Step 6: Chill the Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough allows the flavors to meld and ensures the cookies will be chewy, not cakey.
Step 7: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This prevents the cookies from sticking and ensures even baking.
Step 8: Shape and Bake the Cookies
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set, but the centers remain soft.
Step 9: Cool the Cookies
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps the cookies maintain their chewy texture.
Serving and Storage Tips:
- Serving Suggestions: These chewy pumpkin cookies are perfect as an afternoon snack with a cup of coffee or tea. You can also serve them at fall gatherings or bake sales.
- Storage: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to enjoy them later, they freeze well for up to 3 months. Just pop them in a zip-top bag or freezer-safe container.
Helpful Notes:
- Pumpkin Puree: Be sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices.
- Chilling the Dough: Don’t skip this step! Chilling the dough prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking, giving them that perfect chewy texture.
- Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies, as baking times can vary. You want the edges set but the centers to remain soft for that perfect chewiness.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs:
- Chef Sally McKenney recommends adding an extra pinch of cinnamon for a bolder spice flavor.
- Chef Ina Garten suggests using a combination of semi-sweet and dark chocolate chips to create a more complex flavor profile.
- Chef Martha Stewart advises sprinkling a little sea salt on top of the cookies before baking to enhance the chocolate flavor and balance the sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use coconut oil instead of butter?
Yes, melted coconut oil can be used as a butter substitute. However, it may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the cookies.
2. Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour?
Absolutely! A 1:1 gluten-free flour blend can be used. Just ensure it contains xanthan gum to help the cookies hold together.
3. How do I make the cookies more cake-like?
If you prefer cakey cookies, increase the amount of pumpkin puree by 2 tablespoons and reduce the melted butter by the same amount.
4. Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Yes, feel free to fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans along with the chocolate chips for added crunch.
5. What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?
You can make your own by combining 1/2 tsp cinnamon, 1/4 tsp nutmeg, 1/4 tsp ginger, and a pinch of cloves.
6. Can I use dark chocolate chips instead of mini chocolate chips?
Definitely! You can substitute with any type of chocolate you prefer, but mini chocolate chips help evenly distribute the chocolate in every bite.
7. Why do I need to chill the dough?
Chilling the dough helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much and also enhances the flavor by allowing the ingredients to meld together.
8. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double all of the ingredients to make a larger batch. You may need to bake in batches depending on the size of your oven.
9. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can refrigerate the dough for up to 2 days before baking. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before scooping and baking.
10. Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes! Scoop the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet until firm. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container and bake from frozen. Just add an extra minute or two to the baking time.
Final Thoughts:
These chewy pumpkin cookies are the perfect fall treat—easy to make, full of warm spice, and studded with melty chocolate chips. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just for yourself, these cookies will surely impress. With helpful chef tips and answers to your most pressing questions, you’re all set to whip up a batch of these delightful treats. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy the sweet taste of fall!