Dessert

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Name: Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup pumpkin puree; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 large egg; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips

ByMariem November 25, 2025

Jump to Recipe

These pumpkin chocolate chip cookies are soft, tender, and filled with warm autumn spices. With a cake-like texture and rich chocolate chips in every bite, they make the perfect seasonal treat for gatherings, holiday baking, or everyday enjoyment.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers a dependable and flavourful cookie that highlights pumpkin’s natural sweetness. The combination of spices enhances the pumpkin purée, creating an inviting aroma while the chocolate chips add richness without overwhelming the cookie. The cookies bake evenly, hold their shape, and stay soft for days, making them ideal for sharing or storing.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flour
pumpkin purée
unsalted butter
granulated sugar
brown sugar
egg
vanilla extract
baking powder
baking soda
ground cinnamon
ground nutmeg
ground ginger
salt
chocolate chips

Directions

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
In a separate bowl, cream the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until fully combined.
Stir in the pumpkin purée until the mixture is smooth.
Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Fold in the chocolate chips.
Scoop portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them evenly.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centres are firm.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 12–15 minutes per batch
Total time: about 30 minutes

Variations

– Add chopped pecans or walnuts for additional texture.
– Use white chocolate chips for a sweeter cookie.
– Stir in a small amount of maple syrup for deeper autumn flavour.
– Add a pinch of cloves for a stronger spice profile.
– Substitute gluten-free flour to accommodate dietary needs.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days.
For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
If you prefer warm cookies, heat them in a low oven (120°C / 250°F) for 5 minutes.

FAQs

How do I keep the cookies soft?

Store them in an airtight container and avoid overbaking, as excess heat can dry them out.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned purée?

Yes, but ensure it is fully cooked and blended until smooth to prevent lumps.

Why are my cookies too cakey?

Pumpkin naturally creates a soft texture. Reducing the pumpkin by one or two tablespoons can make the cookies slightly denser.

Can I chill the dough?

Yes. Chilling for 30 minutes helps the cookies hold their shape and improves flavour.

Can I freeze the dough?

You may freeze pre-portioned dough for three months. Bake directly from frozen, adding one to two minutes of baking time.

Can I reduce the sugar?

You can reduce each sugar by up to 25%, though this may slightly affect texture and browning.

What type of chocolate chips work best?

Semi-sweet chocolate chips provide a balanced flavour, but milk or dark chocolate may also be used.

Why did my cookies spread too much?

This may occur if the butter was too warm or if too little flour was used. Chilling the dough can help.

Can I add oats?

Yes. Replace ¼ of the flour with rolled oats for a heartier cookie.

Are these cookies suitable for making ahead?

Yes. The dough and baked cookies both store well, making them ideal for advance preparation.

Conclusion

Pumpkin chocolate chip cookies deliver classic autumn comfort with minimal effort. Their tender texture, warm spices, and rich chocolate make them a versatile dessert for gatherings, gifts, or everyday enjoyment. This thoughtfully balanced recipe ensures dependable results each time, allowing you to share the flavours of the season with ease.

Mariem