Name: Brown Butter Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies for Cozy Fall Vibes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 57 min
Ingredients: ¾ cup Unsalted Butter (Browned for nutty flavor.); ½ cup Granulated Sugar (Sweetens the cookies.); ¾ cup Brown Sugar (Adds deep sweetness.); 1 large Egg Yolk (Binds the dough.); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (For flavor enhancement.); ⅓ cup Pumpkin Puree (Provides moisture.); 1 ½ cups All-Purpose Flour (Maintains cookie structure.); ½ tsp Baking Soda (Helps cookies rise.); ½ tsp Baking Powder (Essential leavening agent.); ½ tsp Salt (Balances sweetness.); 1 tsp Cinnamon (Adds warm spice.); ¼ tsp Ground Ginger (Enhances warmth.); ⅛ tsp Nutmeg (Rich flavor.); ⅛ tsp Cloves (Adds depth to flavor.); 1 cup Semi-sweet Chocolate Chips (Delicious sweetness.); optional Flaky Sea Salt (For finishing touch.)

As I stood in my kitchen, the warm scent of browned butter wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to crisp autumn days filled with laughter and the aroma of baked goods. That’s when the idea of making Brown Butter Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies struck me—a delightful way to embrace the season. These cookies are not just a treat but a cozy experience, combining the rich, nutty flavor of brown butter with the comforting essence of pumpkin. They’re remarkably moist and chewy, making them a perfect addition to any fall gathering or a simple afternoon snack. With minimal prep time, you can whip up a bakery-style cookie that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Curious about how easy it is to bring this autumnal bliss into your home? Let’s get started!

Why are these cookies a must-try?

Warm, Cozy Flavors: The combination of brown butter, pumpkin, and warm spices creates a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen with fall vibes.

Chewy Texture: Each cookie boasts a soft, chewy interior, perfectly balanced with a slightly crispy edge, reminiscent of a professional bakery.

Quick & Easy: With minimal prep time, these cookies are an effortless choice for both novice and experienced bakers looking to impress.

Perfect for Sharing: They make a fantastic addition to autumn gatherings, coffee dates, or just a cozy night in. Serve them warm with a glass of milk, and watch everyone rave about the flavors!

Versatile Additions: Feel free to mix in different types of chocolate chips or even chopped nuts for added texture. For more delicious ideas, check out these Pumpkin White Chocolate and Moist Chocolate Chip cookies.

Stay Fresh: These treats stay soft and delicious in an airtight container. Add a slice of bread inside to keep them moist longer!

Brown Butter Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookies
• Unsalted Butter (¾ cup / 170g) – Adds richness and moisture; ensure you brown it for a deeper, nutty flavor.
• Granulated Sugar (½ cup / 100g) – Sweetens the cookies and aids in browning; coconut sugar is a great substitute for a healthier version.
• Brown Sugar (¾ cup / 150g) – Grants deep sweetness and moisture, making these cookies chewy and delectable.
• Egg Yolk (1 large) – Provides richness and binds the dough, keeping it pleasantly chewy.
• Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Elevates the flavor; opt for pure vanilla for best results.
• Pumpkin Puree (⅓ cup / 80g) – Introduces moisture and pumpkin goodness; adjust for more or less flavor intensity.
• All-Purpose Flour (1 ½ cups / 190g) – Maintains structure of the cookies; you can swap for a gluten-free blend if needed.
• Baking Soda (½ tsp) and Baking Powder (½ tsp) – Essential for the cookies to rise and keep their tender texture.
• Salt (½ tsp) – Balances sweetness and enhances the flavor profile.
• Cinnamon (1 tsp), Ground Ginger (¼ tsp), Nutmeg (⅛ tsp), Cloves (⅛ tsp) – These spices infuse warmth and chase away the autumn chill.
• Semi-sweet Chocolate Chips (1 cup / 180g) – Contributes delicious sweetness and richness; dark chocolate chips can create a more intense flavor.
• Flaky Sea Salt (optional) – Adds a delightful touch of flavor and crunch to finish.

With the right ingredients, you’re just moments away from creating the ultimate fall treat: Brown Butter Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Brown Butter Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Brown the Butter
In a light-colored saucepan, melt ¾ cup of unsalted butter over medium heat, stirring frequently. As it melts, keep an eye on it—after about 5-7 minutes, the butter will turn golden brown and emit a nutty aroma. Remove it from heat and carefully transfer it to a bowl to cool slightly.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
Once the brown butter has cooled to a warm temperature, whisk in ½ cup of granulated sugar and ¾ cup of brown sugar until combined. Then, add in 1 large egg yolk, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ⅓ cup of pumpkin puree. Mix until smooth and creamy, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated for delicious Brown Butter Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon of ground ginger, ⅛ teaspoon of nutmeg, and ⅛ teaspoon of cloves for a fragrant spice blend. Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing.

Step 4: Fold in Chocolate
Gently fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the cookie dough, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout. Once the chocolate is mixed in, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for 20-30 minutes. This chilling step helps the cookies maintain their chewy texture during baking.

Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough chills. Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Using a cookie scoop, portion out 1.5 tablespoons of dough and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared sheets. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers still appear slightly underbaked for that perfect chewy bite.

Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This resting time helps them set properly. Serve these delightful Brown Butter Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies warm, perhaps with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for an extra touch of flavor!

Brown Butter Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Variations

Feel free to play around with these ideas to make your cookies truly your own, adding delightful twists that will surprise and please your taste buds.

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities without sacrificing flavor. This keeps the essence of these cookies intact!
Vegan Option: Replace the egg yolk with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) and use vegan butter. You can still enjoy the chewy goodness of these cookies with a plant-based twist.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a subtle heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies. Just a hint can elevate the flavor profile to new heights.
Nutty Addition: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and nutrition. The nuts pair perfectly with the pumpkin, creating a heartier texture that many will love.
White Chocolate Bliss: Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for white chocolate chips for a sweeter, creamier option. The white chocolate beautifully complements the pumpkin flavors—try it out!
Caramel Swirls: Drizzle some melted caramel over the cookies after baking for a gooey, indulgent touch. This extra sweetness will have everyone reaching for just one more!
Dried Fruits: Incorporate raisins or dried cranberries for bursts of flavor that add a chewy, fruity element to each bite. They bring a little autumn cheer into the mix!

For even more baking inspiration, consider the delightful flavors in these Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting and Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting. There are endless possibilities to make your cookie experience even sweeter!

Expert Tips for Brown Butter Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Blot Pumpkin: Lightly pressing pumpkin puree with paper towels helps prevent excessive moisture, ensuring your cookies are chewy rather than soggy.
Mix Gently: Be careful not to overmix after adding the dry ingredients. This keeps your Brown Butter Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies tender and prevents toughness.
Cool Butter Properly: Allow the brown butter to cool to a warm temperature before mixing. If it’s too hot, it can affect the texture and spread of the cookies.
Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the dough for 20-30 minutes before baking. This step enhances the flavor and maintains the perfect chewy consistency.
Experiment with Chips: Don’t be afraid to try different types of chocolate chips! Dark chocolate or even butterscotch can offer unexpected yet delicious flavors.

What to Serve with Brown Butter Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Indulging in the rich, chewy texture of these cookies opens a world of delightful pairings to elevate your cozy fall experience.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool, smooth texture of ice cream beautifully contrasts the warm, chewy cookies, creating a comforting dessert duo.
Imagine the sensation of indulgent warmth meeting cold creaminess—it’s a perfect remedy to any autumn chill.
Spiced Chai Latte: The aromatic spices in chai enhance the cozy flavors of the cookies, making each bite a sip of blissful fall.
Enjoy this pairing as you curl up on the couch, savoring the perfect blend of warmth and comfort.
Apple Cider: Sweet, tangy apple cider adds a refreshing twist and balances the richness of the cookies, creating a delightful flavor harmony.
Serve it hot or cold; either way, it’s a classic pairing that celebrates the season.
Hot Cocoa: A rich cup of cocoa deepens the sweet chocolate notes of your cookies, perfect for those cozy evenings by the fire.
Each sip and bite together feel like a warm hug, inviting you to relax and unwind.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cookies for an extra layer of sweetness and a hint of gooey indulgence.
This luscious addition amplifies the flavors, making each cookie feel like a decadent dessert.
Roasted Pumpkin Soup: For a savory touch, this smooth, spiced soup complements the sweet, pumpkin flavors in the cookies perfectly, creating a balanced meal.
Pairing savory and sweet is a delightful way to celebrate autumn’s bounty in every bite.
Almond Milk: A glass of almond milk enriches the experience, providing a subtle nutty flavor that matches the brown butter’s warm essence.
It’s a gentle, wholesome choice that keeps the cozy vibes flowing.
Chai-Spiced Rice Pudding: Creamy rice pudding punctuated with chai spices provides a comforting dessert that matches the whimsical essence of the cookies.
This warm treat evokes warmth and is perfect for gatherings or intimate evenings at home.

Let these delightful pairings spark joy in your home and make your cookie experience even more memorable!

Make Ahead Options

These Brown Butter Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are ideal for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy their comforting flavors any time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by chilling it in the refrigerator. Simply mix all ingredients as directed and then cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap. When it’s time to bake, scoop the dough onto a lined baking sheet and bake as instructed! For longer storage, baked cookies can be kept in an airtight container for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Just remember to let them cool completely before storing to keep their texture perfect. Enjoy the ease of homemade treats without the last-minute hustle!

How to Store and Freeze Brown Butter Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days. To maintain softness, add a slice of bread inside the container.

Fridge: For longer freshness, keep the cookies in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Just remember they’ll lose some of their delightful chewiness.

Freezer: Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying. Alternatively, freeze scooped dough balls and bake directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

Reheating: Warm cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a freshly baked feel. Enjoy the comforting flavors of your Brown Butter Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies even days later!

Brown Butter Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best pumpkin for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing pumpkin puree, look for a can that lists 100% pumpkin. If you prefer fresh pumpkin, opt for a sugar pumpkin or pie pumpkin; they are sweeter and have a smoother texture. Avoid large pumpkins often used for carving, as their flavor can be bland.

What’s the best way to store Brown Butter Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Very! To keep your cookies fresh and chewy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Adding a slice of bread to the container will help maintain moisture. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, but they may lose some chewy texture.

Can I freeze these cookies? If so, how?
Of course! To freeze baked cookies, simply place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking, and they’ll stay good for up to 2 months. If you prefer to freeze the dough, scoop individual portions onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, you can bake directly from frozen; just add an extra minute or two to the baking time.

What if my Brown Butter Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies turn out flat?
No worries! Flat cookies can often result from not chilling the dough adequately before baking. Make sure to refrigerate the dough for 20-30 minutes to allow the butter to solidify slightly. Additionally, ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh, as expired leavening agents can affect the rise.

Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Very! These Brown Butter Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are vegetarian, making them a delightful treat for many. If you have dietary restrictions like gluten intolerance, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. For nut allergies, ensure that the chocolate chips don’t contain any traces of nuts. Always check labels if you’re serving them to guests with allergies.