Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Christmas Cookies You’ll Love
What kind of recipe is it?
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Christmas Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic holiday treat, combining the warm, inviting flavors of pumpkin spice with the sweetness of chocolate chips.
These soft, chewy cookies are perfect for festive gatherings, bringing a unique seasonal flair to your dessert table. They not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also add a touch of nostalgia with their comforting flavors.
Ideal for families and friends looking to spread holiday cheer, these cookies are a must-bake for anyone wanting to celebrate with a delicious, seasonal delight.
These ingredients come together to create the flavorful and festive Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Christmas Cookies that are sure to please everyone during the holiday season!
Cooking Steps
1. Preheat the oven to 180 °C (350 °F) and position the oven rack in the center. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups (240 g) of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt until well combined. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer on medium speed, cream 1/2 cup (113 g) of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup (200 g) of granulated sugar, and 1 cup (220 g) of packed brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add 2 large eggs, 1 cup (240 ml) of pure pumpkin puree, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the mixture. Beat on low speed until fully incorporated, scraping down the sides of the bowl as necessary.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
Don’t overmix; the dough should be thick and slightly sticky.
6. Fold in 1 cup (170 g) of semi-sweet chocolate chips gently using a spatula until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 5 cm (2 inches) apart to allow for spreading.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers look set but soft.
They should have a fragrant aroma of spices and chocolate.
9. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
They should feel soft to the touch but firm up as they cool.
10. Once cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Enjoy the seasonal flavors!
Variations
Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cookies: Substitute 2 cups (240 g) of all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
Vegan Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies: Replace the 1/2 cup (113 g) of unsalted butter with coconut oil and use flax eggs (2 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tbsp water) instead of the 2 large eggs for a plant-based option.
Spiced Pumpkin Cookies: Add 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves and 1/4 teaspoon of allspice to the dry ingredients for an extra layer of warm spices.
Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies: Incorporate 1 cup (100 g) of rolled oats into the flour mixture for added texture and fiber, perfect for a chewy cookie variant.
Tips on plating and presentation
While I might be tempted to just pile the cookies on a plate, presenting your pumpkin chocolate chip cookies beautifully can elevate the experience.
Start by choosing a festive plate that complements the colors of the cookies. I love using a white or colorful platter to make the warm, autumn hues pop.
Arrange the cookies in a slightly overlapping pattern for a casual yet inviting look. Consider adding touches like a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate to enhance visual appeal.
Surround the cookies with decorative elements like cinnamon sticks or small ornaments for that holiday vibe. Finally, serve with a side of warm milk or festive napkins for a complete treat that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it’s to the taste buds!
What other dishes can I pair it with?
Have you ever thought about what other delightful dishes can complement your pumpkin chocolate chip cookies? I love pairing them with a warm bowl of spiced oatmeal or creamy pumpkin soup. The rich, comforting flavors harmonize beautifully.
Serving a cheeseboard alongside can also elevate the experience. Think of sharp cheeses like cheddar or tangy goat cheese; they create a perfect balance to the sweetness of the cookies.
For a simple option, I often whip up a batch of snickerdoodles, their cinnamon flavor enhancing the cookies’ autumnal vibe. If I’m feeling festive, I’ll add some gingerbread cookies to the mix.
These combinations not only make a vibrant dessert spread but also give everyone a reason to indulge and celebrate the season!
What drinks can I pair it with?
As you enjoy your pumpkin chocolate chip cookies, consider sipping on a warm cup of spiced chai. The blend of chai spices complements the sweet and cozy flavors of the cookies, creating a comforting experience.
If you’re in the mood for something colder, a pumpkin spice iced coffee can elevate the treat, adding a revitalizing twist. For a festive touch, I love pairing these cookies with a rich hot chocolate, topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try a creamy vanilla latte that balances the sweetness perfectly.
Each drink offers a unique way to enhance your cookie enjoyment, and I’m excited for you to discover your favorite pairing!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Canned Pumpkin for This Recipe?
Absolutely, I’ve used canned pumpkin in my recipes before! It saves time and adds great flavor. Just make certain it’s pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, for the best results. Trust me, you’ll love it!
How Should I Store Leftover Cookies?
I usually store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. If I want them to last longer, I freeze them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll taste great even after a few weeks!
Can I Freeze the Cookie Dough?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough! I usually scoop the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for easy use later.
What Is the Shelf Life of These Cookies?
These cookies typically last about a week at room temperature in an airtight container. If I refrigerate them, they can stay fresh for up to two weeks. Freezing extends their shelf life even longer!
Are These Cookies Suitable for a Gluten-Free Diet?
No, those cookies aren’t gluten-free unless I specifically use gluten-free flour. If you’re on a gluten-free diet, consider substituting with a gluten-free blend, and they’ll still taste amazing! It’s all about the right ingredients!
