Classic Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Classic Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are the perfect fall treat, combining the warmth of pumpkin with the sweetness of chocolate. These soft, cake-like cookies are quick to prepare and are sure to become a seasonal favorite. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them with a cup of tea, these cookies are a must-try for any pumpkin lover.

Ingredients

• 1 cup canned pumpkin
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 egg
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon milk
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your cookie sheets or line them with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the canned pumpkin, sugar, vegetable oil, and egg.
3. In a separate bowl, stir together the flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt.
4. Dissolve the baking soda in the milk, then stir it into the wet ingredients. Gradually add the flour mixture to the pumpkin mixture and mix until well combined.
5. Stir in the semisweet chocolate chips.
6. Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared cookie sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for approximately 10 minutes or until the cookies are lightly brown and firm to the touch.
8. Allow to cool on a wire rack before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 24 cookies

Variations

1. Add-ins: Try adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture.
2. Spices: For a deeper flavor, add a pinch of ginger or cloves along with the cinnamon.
3. Chocolate Types: Use milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips instead of semisweet for a different flavor profile.
4. Vegan Version: Swap the egg for a flaxseed meal egg substitute and use a plant-based oil.
5. Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to make these cookies gluten-free.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a sealed container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, reheat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

10 Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
   Yes, but you’ll need to cook and puree the pumpkin to achieve the same consistency as canned puree.
2. Can I make these cookies dairy-free?
   Yes, substitute the butter with dairy-free margarine or coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
3. Why do I need to dissolve the baking soda in milk?
   Dissolving the baking soda activates it, allowing it to work properly in the dough to help the cookies rise.
4. How can I make the cookies more cake-like?
   You can add a little more pumpkin puree to the dough for a fluffier texture.
5. Can I use another type of sugar?
   You can try substituting brown sugar for white sugar, which will add a bit of molasses flavor.
6. How do I know when the cookies are done?
   They should be lightly golden brown on the edges and firm in the center. If they are still soft and wet in the middle, bake for a few more minutes.
7. Can I add icing or frosting?
   Yes, you can drizzle these cookies with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk, or even cream cheese frosting for extra sweetness.
8. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
   Yes, you can chill the dough in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.
9. Why are my cookies too flat?
   Your dough might be too soft. Try chilling the dough before baking to prevent them from spreading too much.
10. Can I freeze the cookie dough?
    Yes, you can scoop the dough into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time.

Conclusion

Classic Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful, easy-to-make treat perfect for the fall season. Their soft, cake-like texture combined with the rich flavor of pumpkin and sweet chocolate chips make them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of coffee or sharing them with friends and family, these cookies are sure to bring warmth and comfort to your day.

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