Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe to Warm Your Heart

Name: Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe to Warm Your Heart
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup pumpkin puree; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup butter, softened; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chocolate chips

October 15, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh, fall is officially here, and that means it’s time for all things cozy and delicious! I can hardly contain my excitement when it comes to baking, especially with my soft pumpkin chocolate chip cookies recipe. The moment the leaves start to change, I’m in the kitchen whipping up a batch of these heavenly cookies. They’re the perfect blend of warm pumpkin spice and sweet chocolate, creating a treat that just screams autumn! Imagine the smell of cinnamon and nutmeg wafting through your home as they bake — it’s pure magic! Plus, they’re so soft and chewy, they practically melt in your mouth. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll be reaching for a second (or third!). So let’s get started on this delightful recipe that’s sure to bring warmth and joy to your fall gatherings!

soft pumpkin chocolate chip cookies recipe - detail 1

Ingredients

1 cup pumpkin puree: This is the star of the show! You can use canned pumpkin puree for convenience or make your own from fresh pumpkins for a more homemade touch.
1 cup brown sugar: This adds a deep, rich sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
1/2 cup granulated sugar: Just a little extra sweetness to balance out the flavors — it’s like a warm hug in cookie form!
1/2 cup butter, softened: Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy mixing. This gives the cookies that lovely, tender texture.
1 egg: The binding agent! It helps hold everything together and adds a touch of richness.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: This little splash of flavor takes your cookies to the next level. Trust me, vanilla makes everything better!
2 cups all-purpose flour: This is the backbone of your cookie dough. It gives the cookies structure and helps them rise just right.
1 teaspoon baking soda: This helps the cookies puff up and become soft and chewy, which is exactly what we’re aiming for.
1 teaspoon baking powder: Another leavening agent to ensure those cookies don’t turn out flat — we want them fluffy!
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The quintessential spice that brings that warm, cozy flavor. It’s like a hug in every bite!
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Just a pinch for that extra depth of flavor. It’s like a sprinkle of autumn magic!
1/2 teaspoon salt: Don’t skip this! It enhances all the sweet flavors and balances everything out.
1 cup chocolate chips: The sweet finishing touch! You can use semi-sweet, dark, or even milk chocolate chips, depending on your preference.

How to Prepare the Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because it ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect soft texture. I usually set a timer for about 10 minutes while I get everything else ready — this gives the oven enough time to reach the right temperature before those cookies go in!

Mixing the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and softened butter. I like to use an electric mixer for this part — it makes everything blend super smoothly! Mix until everything is well combined and creamy. You want to see the sugars fully incorporated, and the mixture should be light and fluffy. Oh, the smell already starts to hint at the goodness to come!

Preparing the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This step is key to ensuring that your leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the dough. Don’t rush it — give it a good mix so that every bite of cookie is perfectly flavored!

Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now, it’s time to bring the wet and dry ingredients together. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently. I like to use a spatula for this part to avoid over-mixing. You want to combine them until just incorporated; a few lumps are totally okay! Over-mixing can lead to tough cookies, and we definitely don’t want that!

Adding Chocolate Chips

Once your dough is ready, fold in those delicious chocolate chips! This part is so fun — you can use semi-sweet, dark, or even milk chocolate, depending on your taste. Make sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough, so every bite is bursting with chocolatey goodness.

Baking the Cookies

Using a tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto a lined baking sheet, leaving some space between them. Bake in your preheated oven for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them — the edges should be set, but the centers may look a little soft. That’s exactly what you want! They’ll firm up as they cool.

Cooling Process

After baking, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them maintain their soft, chewy texture. Don’t skip this step! Cooling them on a wire rack allows air to circulate around the cookies, preventing them from getting soggy. Enjoy the sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen as they cool!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each of these delightful soft pumpkin chocolate chip cookies. Keep in mind that these values are approximate, and can vary based on specific ingredients used:

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 150
Total Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 80mg
Total Carbohydrates: 21g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 10g
Protein: 2g

These cookies are not only a tasty treat but also a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of fall without too much guilt. Enjoy every bite while savoring their soft, chewy texture and the sweetness of chocolate chips paired with pumpkin! Yum!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: You can whip up these cookies in just about 30 minutes, making them perfect for those busy fall days when you need a sweet treat in a flash!
Delightful Flavors: The combination of warm pumpkin spice and melty chocolate chips creates an irresistible flavor that captures the essence of autumn.
Soft and Chewy Texture: These cookies are incredibly soft and chewy, making them a cozy, satisfying dessert that melts in your mouth.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering, a cozy night in, or a potluck, these cookies are sure to impress and become a favorite among friends and family.
Kid-Friendly: With their sweet chocolate chips, these cookies are a hit with kids of all ages, making them a fun baking project to enjoy together!
Versatile: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding nuts, swapping in different spices, or even drizzling them with icing for an extra special touch.

Tips for Success

To ensure your soft pumpkin chocolate chip cookies turn out perfectly every time, I’ve got some tried-and-true tips that will elevate your baking game!

Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure your pumpkin puree is fresh. If you’re using canned, check the label to avoid any added sugars or preservatives. Fresh spices also pack more flavor, so consider using freshly ground cinnamon and nutmeg if you can!
Room Temperature Ingredients: Having your butter and egg at room temperature makes for a smoother batter. It helps to create that light, fluffy texture that we all love. So, let them sit out for about 30 minutes before mixing!
Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and we want them to be tender and soft, not dense!
Chill the Dough (Optional): If you have the time, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes can help enhance the flavors and make the cookies a bit thicker. It prevents them from spreading too much while baking, which is a win!
Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake! Every oven is different, so start checking them a minute or two before the recommended time. They should look set at the edges but still soft in the middle.
Cooling is Key: Letting the cookies cool on a wire rack is essential for maintaining that soft texture. If they sit too long on the baking sheet, they can get soggy. Plus, it gives you time to enjoy the fantastic aroma filling your kitchen!
Experiment with Add-Ins: Don’t be afraid to get creative! You can add chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or even white chocolate chips for a fun twist. Just remember to adjust the measurements to keep the dough balanced.

With these tips, you’re well on your way to baking the best soft pumpkin chocolate chip cookies ever. Happy baking!

Variations of the Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking to shake things up a bit with your soft pumpkin chocolate chip cookies, I’ve got some delicious variations that will keep your taste buds excited! Trust me, these tweaks can add a whole new level of flavor to an already scrumptious recipe.

Add Nuts: For a delightful crunch, consider folding in some chopped walnuts or pecans. They add a lovely texture that complements the softness of the cookie beautifully!
Spice It Up: If you want to kick your pumpkin spice game up a notch, try adding a little ground ginger or allspice. Just a half teaspoon can elevate the flavor profile and give your cookies a warm, spicy kick!
Use Different Chips: Swap out the chocolate chips for white chocolate, butterscotch, or even peanut butter chips for a fun and different taste sensation. You can mix and match for a cookie that suits your sweet tooth perfectly!
Incorporate Dried Fruit: Add some dried cranberries or raisins for a chewy burst of sweetness. They pair wonderfully with the pumpkin and spices, adding a nice contrast to the chocolate.
Make It Gluten-Free: If you need a gluten-free option, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. I’ve tried this, and the cookies turn out just as soft and delicious!
Frosting Fun: For an extra special treat, consider drizzling the cooled cookies with a simple cream cheese frosting. Just mix some cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a splash of vanilla for a creamy topping that’s to die for!
Pumpkin Spice Latte Cookies: For a caffeinated twist, add a tablespoon of instant coffee granules to the dry ingredients. It gives your cookies a subtle coffee flavor that pairs perfectly with the pumpkin and chocolate!

These variations are just a starting point! Feel free to experiment and find your favorite combo. Every batch can be a new adventure, and I can’t wait for you to discover your own delicious twists on this classic recipe!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To keep your soft pumpkin chocolate chip cookies fresh and delicious, it’s important to store them properly. Once the cookies have completely cooled on the wire rack, transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll stay nice and soft for up to a week at room temperature. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them! Just place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay good for up to two months.

When you’re ready to enjoy a cookie (or two!), there’s no need to worry. Simply take out the desired number of cookies and let them thaw at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. If you prefer them warm, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. That’s all it takes to bring back that delightful softness and melty chocolate goodness. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like a warm cookie fresh from the microwave!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.