Vegan Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

You’ll love these Vegan Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies! Perfect for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to festive celebrations, these cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with the delightful flavors of pumpkin and chocolate. With just a handful of ingredients, they are easy to whip up and sure to impress everyone who tries them.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and chocolate chips creates a unique taste that is both sweet and comforting.
• Easy to Make: With only nine ingredients, this recipe is simple enough for beginners yet delicious enough for seasoned bakers.
• Versatile Treat: These cookies can be enjoyed as a snack, dessert, or even breakfast for those who like sweet morning treats.
• Perfectly Soft Texture: The use of coconut oil and pumpkin puree ensures a soft and chewy cookie that melts in your mouth.
• Dairy-Free Delight: Made without any dairy, these cookies are perfect for anyone looking for vegan dessert options.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Vegan Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cookie scoop
• Baking tray
• Parchment paper
• Refrigerator

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl is essential for combining all your ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: This tool helps blend the wet ingredients smoothly for a consistent dough.
• Cookie scoop: Using a cookie scoop ensures uniform sizes, making each cookie bake evenly.

Ingredients

You only need 9 ingredients to bake up the best soft vegan pumpkin chocolate chip cookies!

Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup melted coconut oil
– 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
– 3/4 cup brown sugar (I used dark brown sugar but light brown sugar also works – the cookies will just look different)
– 1/4 cup white sugar
– 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 3/4 cup chocolate chips

How to Make Vegan Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Mix Wet Ingredients

Begin by adding your melted coconut oil, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, and white sugar to a mixing bowl. Whisk together until combined.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

Then, add in the flour, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and baking soda. Make sure to add the flour first before adding the other ingredients on top. Mix together until a smooth but semi-sticky dough forms. Fold in 1/2 cup of the chocolate chips using a spoon or spatula until evenly distributed.

Step 3: Chill Dough

Cover the bowl of cookie dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling enhances the flavor; you can even chill it up to 24 hours if desired.

Step 4: Prepare to Bake

Once you are ready to bake, preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C) and cover a baking tray with parchment paper. Take the dough out of the fridge.

Step 5: Scoop Cookies

Use a cookie scoop to scoop out 1.5 Tbsp sized cookies onto the baking pan (40-45 grams). Leave space between each cookie as they will spread while baking. Flatten each cookie slightly with a spoon or your palm before baking. Add 3-5 additional chocolate chips on top of each cookie.

Step 6: Bake

Add to the oven and bake for 12-14 minutes until edges are beginning to brown while ensuring the center remains soft yet not glossy.

Step 7: Cool Down

Remove the cookie tray from the oven and immediately tap it on the counter to create a more “wrinkly” cookie appearance. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5–10 minutes before transferring them onto a wire rack or enjoy them warm right away!

How to Serve Vegan Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Vegan Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are deliciously versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for a cozy gathering or a simple treat at home, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With a Glass of Plant-Based Milk

• Almond milk: The nutty flavor complements the sweetness of the cookies.
• Oat milk: Creamy and slightly sweet, oat milk pairs perfectly for dipping.
• Soy milk: Rich in protein, soy milk is another great choice for balancing the flavors.

Topped with Nut Butter

• Peanut butter: Spread a layer of creamy or crunchy peanut butter on top for added richness.
• Almond butter: This option offers a subtly sweet flavor that enhances the cookie’s taste.
• Cashew cream: A smooth and decadent topping for those who enjoy a creamy texture.

Served Warm with Ice Cream

• Dairy-free vanilla ice cream: Scoop some on top or serve on the side for a classic dessert combo.
• Coconut ice cream: The tropical hint adds an exciting twist to the warm cookies.
• Chocolate sorbet: For chocolate lovers, this pairing intensifies the cookie’s flavors.

Drizzled with Maple Syrup

• Pure maple syrup: A drizzle adds extra sweetness and a hint of earthiness that complements pumpkin.
• Agave nectar: A lighter alternative that provides sweetness without overwhelming the flavor.

How to Perfect Vegan Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

To ensure your Vegan Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Chill the dough: Refrigerating the dough allows flavors to develop and results in better texture.
• Measure flour correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid dense cookies; scoop flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife.
• Use fresh pumpkin puree: For optimal flavor, use freshly made pumpkin puree instead of canned when possible.
• Adjust baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; they should look soft but set in the center when done.
• Store properly: To maintain freshness, store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze for longer storage.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Pairing your Vegan Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies with complementary side dishes can elevate your snack time. Here are some tasty options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of cookies.
2. Granola Parfait – Layer dairy-free yogurt with granola and fruit for a delightful contrast in texture.
3. Chia Seed Pudding – This creamy dessert is nutritious and pairs well with the rich chocolate flavors in the cookies.
4. Roasted Nuts – A handful of spiced or salted nuts adds crunch and savory notes alongside sweet cookies.
5. Dairy-Free Hot Cocoa – Enjoy warm cocoa made from plant-based milk for a cozy drink that perfectly complements your cookies.
6. Spiced Tea – A cup of cinnamon or chai tea brings warmth and aromatic spices that go well with pumpkin flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Vegan Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the outcome. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Skipping the refrigeration step: Not chilling the dough can lead to cookies that spread too much. Always refrigerate for at least an hour for better flavor and texture.
• Using cold coconut oil: If the coconut oil is not melted properly, it can create clumps in your dough. Make sure it is fully melted and slightly cooled before adding.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can make your cookies tough rather than soft. Mix until just combined for the best texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much flour can result in dry cookies. Use a kitchen scale or spoon and level method to ensure accuracy.
• Ignoring baking times: Each oven varies, so keep an eye on your cookies during baking. Remove them when they are just set in the center.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep layers of cookies separated with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Freezing Vegan Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Reheating Vegan Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Vegan Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies:

How do I know when my cookies are done?

The edges should be lightly browned, while the center remains soft and not glossy.

Can I substitute the chocolate chips?

Yes! You can use vegan-friendly alternatives, like cacao nibs or dairy-free white chocolate.

What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?

You can use a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger as a substitute.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

Final Thoughts

Vegan Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding nuts or swapping out chocolate chips for dried fruits. These soft treats are perfect for any occasion—give this recipe a try and enjoy the warm, gooey goodness!