Pumpkin White Chocolate Chip Cookies

If you’re looking for a cozy, sweet treat that captures the essence of fall, these Pumpkin White Chocolate Chip Cookies are just what you need. The blend of creamy pumpkin and rich white chocolate creates a delightful harmony that is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering. These cookies are not only delicious but also super easy to whip up, making them a favorite in my household!

Every bite of these cookies brings warmth and comfort, reminding us of crisp autumn days. Plus, they are an excellent way to use up that leftover pumpkin puree from your seasonal recipes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: You don’t need any fancy equipment; just a bowl and a spoon will do!
• Family-friendly: Kids love the sweetness of white chocolate mixed with the subtle spice of pumpkin.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can chill the dough ahead of time or even freeze the cookies for later.
• Deliciously unique flavor: The combination of pumpkin and white chocolate offers a delightful twist on traditional cookies.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Together, they come together to create a batch of cookies bursting with flavor!

For the Cookie Dough

• ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick, softened)
• ½ cup packed light brown sugar
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 6 tbsp pumpkin puree (¼ cup plus 2 tbsp)
• 1 egg yolk
• 1.5 cups all-purpose flour (180 g) (spooned and leveled)
• ½ tsp cinnamon (or pumpkin pie spice)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt (decrease to ¼ tsp if using salted butter)
• 1 cup white chocolate chips

Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! It’s flexible enough to accommodate different tastes and preferences.

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
• Replace the chips: Use dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips if you prefer a richer chocolate flavor.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for an extra kick of warmth.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend.

How to Make Pumpkin White Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Puree

Using paper towels or a clean tea towel, wrap up the pumpkin puree in a few layers. Squeeze out the excess liquid carefully. This step is essential because removing extra moisture ensures your cookies won’t turn out too wet and will maintain their perfect chewy texture.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar for about 2-3 minutes until fully combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as necessary. This process incorporates air into the mixture, giving your cookies that lovely fluffy texture.

Step 3: Mix in Wet Ingredients

Add in the vanilla extract, pumpkin puree, and egg yolk. Mix until everything is well incorporated. The pumpkin adds moisture and flavor while keeping these cookies soft.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to add the flour along with baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want those lovely soft cookies!

Step 5: Fold in White Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in those delicious white chocolate chips. This step is where you’ll really start to see those little bits of sweetness throughout your cookie dough!

Step 6: Chill the Dough

Chill your cookie dough for about 30 minutes in the fridge. If you’d like, scoop out tablespoon-sized balls before chilling for ease later on. Chilling helps firm up the dough so that your cookies hold their shape better while baking.

Step 7: Preheat Your Oven

While your dough chills, preheat your oven to 350 ℉. This ensures that when you put your cookies in, they start cooking right away for perfectly baked treats.

Step 8: Bake Your Cookies

Place chilled dough balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or silicone mat, leaving space between each since they will spread while baking. Bake them in your preheated oven for about 9-12 minutes or until their edges start to brown slightly.

Step 9: Cool Down

Once baked, remove them from the oven and gently tap the pan on top of the oven to help settle them down. Let them cool on the tray for about 5-10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to finish cooling completely.

Enjoy every last crumb of these delightful Pumpkin White Chocolate Chip Cookies!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin White Chocolate Chip Cookies

Baking should be a joyful experience, so here are some tips to help you achieve the perfect cookies!

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: Freshly made pumpkin puree can enhance the flavor of your cookies, making them taste even more homemade and delicious compared to canned options.

• Chill your dough: Chilling the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking and enhances their flavor by allowing the ingredients to meld together.

• Measure flour correctly: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping it directly from the bag. This prevents overpacking, which can lead to dense cookies rather than light and fluffy ones.

• Experiment with spices: While cinnamon is a classic choice, consider adding nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of warmth and flavor that complements the pumpkin beautifully.

• Don’t skip tapping the pan: Tapping the baking sheet after removing it from the oven helps create a chewy texture by letting any excess air escape from the cookies.

How to Serve Pumpkin White Chocolate Chip Cookies

These delightful cookies can be served in various ways, making them perfect for any occasion. Here are some fun ideas to present your delicious treats!

Garnishes

• Sprinkle with sea salt: A pinch of flaky sea salt on top enhances the sweetness of the cookies and adds a delightful contrast in flavor.
• Add a drizzle of white chocolate: Melt some white chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled cookies for an elegant touch that makes them look as good as they taste.

Side Dishes

• Pumpkin Spice Latte: This warm beverage is a comforting companion that echoes the flavors in your cookies, making it a perfect pairing for cozy fall afternoons.
• Apple Cider: A glass of spiced apple cider brings out the autumn vibes and complements the sweetness of your pumpkin white chocolate chip cookies beautifully.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream served alongside warm cookies creates a delightful dessert experience, with contrasting textures and temperatures.
• Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses (like brie or goat cheese) offers a savory balance to your sweet cookies, creating an inviting spread for gatherings or parties.

Enjoy serving these delightful Pumpkin White Chocolate Chip Cookies! They’re sure to be a hit whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or savoring them solo with your favorite drink. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin White Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy a delicious treat throughout the week. You can bake them in advance and store or freeze them for later enjoyment!

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• If you want to keep them fresh even longer, place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour.
• Transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can last for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy warm cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place frozen or refrigerated cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• For a softer texture, you can microwave individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about Pumpkin White Chocolate Chip Cookies:

Can I use other types of chocolate chips?

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of white chocolate, feel free to substitute with dark chocolate or semi-sweet chips for a different flavor profile.

How many Pumpkin White Chocolate Chip Cookies does this recipe yield?

This recipe makes approximately 22 delightful cookies, perfect for sharing with family and friends!

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it contains xanthan gum or add it separately if needed.

What is the best way to store Pumpkin White Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them as outlined above.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Pumpkin White Chocolate Chip Cookies as much as I do! Their delightful combination of pumpkin and sweet white chocolate makes them a special treat that’s perfect any time of year. Enjoy the cozy aroma wafting through your kitchen and share these heartwarming cookies with loved ones. Happy baking!