Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

These Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful treat, perfect for any occasion. With their soft, gooey texture and rich chocolate flavor combined with warm fall spices, these cookies will surely please everyone. The unique preparation method using brown butter and blotted pumpkin ensures that you get the perfect chewy texture without a cakey finish. Whether you’re celebrating the fall season or just in the mood for something sweet, these cookies are a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The combination of pumpkin, chocolate, and spices creates a mouthwatering treat.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for bakers of all levels.
• Perfectly Chewy: Achieved through unique techniques like browning butter and preparing pumpkin puree effectively.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for holiday gatherings, cozy nights in, or as gifts for friends and family.
• Store or Freeze: The cookie dough can be refrigerated or frozen for later baking convenience.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cookie-making process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth experience in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Cookie scoop
• Baking trays
• Parchment paper
• Wire cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly to achieve the right consistency.
• Cookie Scoop: Helps in portioning out dough evenly for uniform cookies every time.
• Parchment Paper: Prevents cookies from sticking to baking trays, making cleanup easier.
• Wire Cooling Rack: Allows cookies to cool evenly after baking, preserving their texture.

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Ingredients

These chewy pumpkin chocolate chip cookies are soft, gooey, and packed with warm fall spices and melty chocolate. Made with brown butter and blotted pumpkin for that signature chewy texture. No cakey cookies here!

For the Cookies

• 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
• 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

How to Make Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 F (180 C). Line two baking trays with parchment paper; this will help prevent sticking.

Step 2: Brown the Butter

Brown the butter in a large stainless steel pan. Watch it carefully as it foams and crackles. Stir occasionally until it smells nutty and has dark bits at the bottom. Remove from heat when done.

Step 3: Cool the Butter

Transfer the browned butter to a glass measuring bowl. Place it in the fridge for about 50-60 minutes until it cools down but remains liquid.

Step 4: Prepare Pumpkin Puree

Spread the pumpkin puree on a plate. Use paper towels to soak up excess liquid until you have about 1/3 cup of dry pumpkin.

Step 5: Mix Sugars with Butter

Once the butter is cool, whisk together with brown sugar and granulated sugar for exactly one minute until it resembles pale wet sand.

Step 6: Add Egg Yolks and Vanilla

Whisk in egg yolks, vanilla extract, and dried pumpkin puree until everything is well combined.

Step 7: Combine Dry Ingredients

Fold in flour, pumpkin spice, baking soda, salt, and chocolate chips gently until just combined.

Step 8: Form Cookies on Trays

Scoop cookie dough using a 3 tbsp cookie scoop. Roll into balls between your palms before placing them on prepared trays with space in between.

Step 9: Bake Cookies

Bake one tray at a time for about 9-13 minutes until edges are golden but centers are slightly underbaked. Use a round cookie cutter immediately after removing from oven to shape them perfectly.

Step 10: Cool and Store

Let cookies cool on a wire rack completely before enjoying! Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze unbaked dough balls for later use.

How to Serve Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

These chewy pumpkin chocolate chip cookies are perfect for any occasion. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with various accompaniments to enhance their flavor and experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing, the creaminess of milk complements the rich chocolate and warm spices in the cookies.

Warmed with Ice Cream

• Heat the cookies slightly and serve them with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a delightful dessert.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra sweetness and a touch of elegance.

Alongside Hot Cocoa

• Serve these cookies with a steaming cup of hot cocoa to create a cozy, comforting treat during colder months.

For Breakfast with Coffee

• Enjoy these cookies as a sweet treat alongside your morning coffee or tea for a delightful start to your day.

How to Perfect Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

To achieve the best chewy texture and flavor in your cookies, follow these helpful tips.

• Use cold butter – Starting with cold unsalted butter helps retain the moisture required for that chewy texture.
• Do not overmix – Mix the dough until just combined to prevent dense cookies; overmixing can lead to tough results.
• Chill the dough – Allowing the dough to chill before baking helps flavors meld and creates thicker, chewier cookies.
• Watch baking time – Remove the cookies when the edges are golden brown but the center is still slightly underbaked for perfect chewiness.
• Experiment with chocolate types – Try using dark chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate chips for varied flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Pairing your chewy pumpkin chocolate chip cookies with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess that balances well with spices in the cookies.
2. Pumpkin Spice Latte – The warm flavors of this seasonal drink pair perfectly, enhancing the pumpkin taste.
3. Cheese Platter – A selection of mild cheeses can provide a savory contrast to sweet cookies.
4. Fruit Salad – Fresh fruits add brightness and balance, making it a refreshing side alongside rich cookies.
5. Nut Mix – A crunchy nut mix can provide texture and an earthy flavor that complements pumpkin beautifully.
6. Chocolate Fondue – Dip pieces of cookie into melted chocolate for an indulgent experience that chocolate lovers will adore.
7. Caramel Sauce – Drizzling warm caramel sauce over the cookie takes it to another level of sweetness and richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making chewy pumpkin chocolate chip cookies, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your baking game. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using warm butter – Warm butter can lead to greasy cookies. Always brown the butter and let it cool until it’s just below room temperature before mixing.
• Not drying the pumpkin puree – Excess moisture from pumpkin puree can affect the cookie’s texture. Use paper towels to absorb excess liquid thoroughly.
• Overmixing the dough – Overmixing can result in tough cookies. Mix until just combined to maintain that chewy texture.
• Skipping the chilling step – Chilling the dough helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking. Don’t skip this step; it’s essential for perfect results.
• Ignoring oven temperature – Each oven is different, and an inaccurate temperature can ruin your cookies. Always preheat your oven and consider using an oven thermometer for accuracy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days.
• Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing.

Freezing Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Freeze cookie dough balls for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
• Place parchment paper between layers of dough if stacking.

Reheating Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Heat one cookie at a time on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop – Use a skillet on low heat and cover with a lid for about 1 minute to warm gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about chewy pumpkin chocolate chip cookies:

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin, but ensure it is cooked and properly dried like canned pumpkin for best results.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

The edges should be golden brown while the center appears slightly underbaked. They will continue cooking as they cool.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your cookies with nuts, seeds, or even dried fruit for added texture and flavor.

What makes these Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies different from others?

The combination of browned butter and dried pumpkin puree gives these cookies their unique chewy texture and rich flavor.

How long does it take to prepare these cookies from start to finish?

The total preparation time is about 101 minutes, including cooling time for the butter.

Final Thoughts

These chewy pumpkin chocolate chip cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with various mix-ins according to your taste preferences. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or stored for later, they embody the cozy essence of fall baking. Try making them today!