As the leaves turn crisp and the scent of autumn fills the air, there’s something about baking that feels like a warm embrace on a chilly day. I often find myself craving comfort treats, and that’s when these Gluten Free Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies come into play. Just picture it: the sweet aroma of pumpkin and warm spices mingling with rich chocolate chips, filling your kitchen with a delightful invitation to gather and indulge.
I originally created this recipe to satisfy my own desire for a wholesome dessert that doesn’t compromise on flavor. These cookies are incredibly easy to whip up, making them the perfect partner for those cozy afternoons or unexpected gatherings. Plus, whether you’re gluten-sensitive or simply on the hunt for a delicious treat, you’ll be amazed at how quickly these cookies disappear. Let’s dive into making a batch that’s sure to impress family and friends alike!
Why love these Gluten Free Pumpkin Cookies?
Deliciously Unique: The combination of pumpkin and chocolate brings a delightful twist to your typical cookie.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers will create cookie magic.
Fall Flavor Explosion: Infused with pumpkin pie spice, these cookies evoke the cozy essence of autumn in every bite.
Gluten-Free Goodness: Perfect for those avoiding gluten, ensuring everyone can indulge without worry.
Crowd Pleaser: Watch as friends and family can’t resist reaching for seconds – or thirds!
For more pumpkin-inspired treats, check out my pumpkin recipe collection.
Gluten Free Pumpkin Cookies Ingredients
For the Dough
- ½ cup room temperature butter – ensures a creamy texture and easy mixing for your cookie base.
- ½ cup light brown sugar – adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor to the cookies.
- ¾ cup white sugar – balances the sweetness, making these cookies truly irresistible.
- ½ cup pure pumpkin puree – not only contributes flavor but also keeps the cookies incredibly soft.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – enhances the overall flavor and adds a lovely aroma.
- 2 cups gluten free all-purpose baking flour – ensures a deliciously chewy texture while making these cookies gluten free.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – helps the cookies rise, giving them that perfect lift.
- 2 ¼ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice – brings warmth and a festive fall flavor that you’ll adore.
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon – adds an extra spicy note to elevate the pumpkin flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 1 cup chocolate chips – chocolate bliss that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
Feel free to make these gluten free pumpkin cookies your own by adding nuts or swapping in dairy-free chocolate chips!
How to Make Gluten Free Pumpkin Cookies
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Preheat the oven to 350°F. This step ensures that your cookies bake evenly, providing that perfect soft center and lightly crisped edges.
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Cream together the room temperature butter, light brown sugar, and white sugar in a mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer to blend until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
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Mix in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract. Beat until well incorporated, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully together.
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Combine the dry ingredients (gluten free flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt) with the wet mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms, ensuring all the flour is well integrated.
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Fold in the chocolate chips gently. This step is crucial for evenly distributing the chocolate throughout the dough.
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Scoop heaping tablespoons of dough onto a lined baking sheet. Space them a few inches apart, as they’ll spread while baking.
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Bake for 13-18 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden brown and the centers appear matte. It’s important to keep an eye on them!
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Sprinkle a few extra chocolate chips on top of the cookies immediately after they’re out of the oven. This gives a beautiful and inviting look!
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Adjust the spread of your cookies by gently slamming the baking sheet down a couple of times on the oven rack if needed. This fun little tip helps to create perfect cookies!
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Cool the cookies for at least 30 minutes on a wire rack before enjoying. This allows them to set up, making them even more delightful to bite into.
Optional: Serve with a glass of milk for a classic pairing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Gluten Free Pumpkin Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent any moisture loss. When you’re ready to bake, scoop the dough onto a lined baking sheet and continue with the baking instructions as directed. If you want even more convenience, you can bake the cookies and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or freeze them for up to a month. This way, you’ll always have a delicious treat on hand with minimal effort, just as delightful as fresh-baked!
How to Store and Freeze Gluten Free Pumpkin Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and fresh for cozy snacking.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate your gluten free pumpkin cookies for up to a week. Make sure they are in an airtight container to avoid drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 2 hours, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll last up to 3 months!
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, microwave a cookie for about 10-15 seconds or place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5 minutes.
Gluten Free Pumpkin Cookies Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists and swaps to make the recipe uniquely yours!
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Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that perfectly complements the soft cookie base.
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Spice It Up: Increase the pumpkin pie spice to 3 teaspoons for an extra kick of autumn flavor that will warm your soul.
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Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the room temperature butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative for a delicious vegan version.
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Chocolate Lovers: Use dark chocolate chips or chunks instead of regular chocolate chips for a rich and bold chocolate experience.
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Pumpkin Pie Swirl: Incorporate a swirl of pumpkin pie filling on top of the dough before baking for a visual treat and an added burst of pumpkin flavor.
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Cranberry Infusion: Mix in ½ cup of dried cranberries for a tart contrast that pairs beautifully with both pumpkin and chocolate.
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Coconut Bliss: Fold in ½ cup of shredded unsweetened coconut for an exotic texture and flavor that transports you to a tropical paradise in each bite.
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Maple Sweetening: Replace the granulated sugar with an equal amount of maple syrup for a delightful maple twist that enhances the cookie’s fall essence.
Each variation opens a new door to flavor exploration, making every batch of gluten free pumpkin cookies truly special!
What to Serve with Gluten Free Pumpkin Cookies?
Imagine enjoying these delightful cookies and the perfect pairing that enhances their warm, spiced goodness.
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Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool creaminess melts beautifully alongside the warm cookies, creating an irresistible contrast that feels like a cozy hug.
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Hot Apple Cider: This festive beverage brings autumn’s charm to life, echoing the spices in the cookies while adding a warm, inviting aroma to your home.
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Maple Glazed Scones: Their flaky texture and subtle sweetness complement the soft, chewy nature of the cookies, making them a delightful duo for brunch gatherings.
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Chai Latte: Infused with spices that resonate with pumpkin pie flavors, chai latte creates a comforting drink that perfectly pairs for a cozy treat time.
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Caramel Dipping Sauce: Providing a rich, sweet contrast, just a drizzle of caramel enhances the natural flavor of the pumpkin cookies and adds an indulgent touch.
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Chocolate Milk: The richness of chocolate milk harmonizes with the chocolate chips in the cookies, making for a nostalgic and delightful pairing that appeals to all ages.
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Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of fresh fruits adds brightness and a refreshing contrast to the sweet, spiced cookies, balancing out the flavors beautifully.
Let your imagination run wild as you enjoy these gluten free pumpkin cookies with your favorite side dishes or beverages!
Helpful Tricks for Gluten Free Pumpkin Cookies
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Butter Temperature Matters: Use room temperature butter for easier creaming, ensuring a smooth dough and perfectly textured cookies.
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Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough just until combined to prevent tough cookies. Overmixing can lead to dense and chewy results instead of the desired soft texture.
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Scoop Consistently: Use a cookie scoop for uniform cookie sizes. This ensures even baking and a delightful presentation.
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Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on the cookies, checking at the shorter end of the baking time. Ovens vary, and you don’t want them to overbake.
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Cool Completely: Allow the cookies to cool for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps them set properly and enhances their flavor.
These tips will help you create the most delightful gluten free pumpkin cookies that everyone will love!
Gluten Free Pumpkin Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! For the best results, use pure pumpkin puree, which you can find in a can. Look for a brand that lists only pumpkin as the ingredient. Avoid pumpkin pie filling since it contains added sugars and spices, which can change the flavor and texture of your cookies.
What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
To keep your gluten free pumpkin cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator where they can last up to a week. Just make sure to keep them in their container to prevent them from drying out!
Can I freeze these cookies? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your gluten free pumpkin cookies, start by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about 2 hours until firm. Then, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll maintain their delightful taste for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight or microwave them for a quick treat.
What should I do if my cookies don’t spread while baking?
Very often! If your cookies aren’t spreading as much as you’d like during baking, don’t worry. Right out of the oven, take your cookie tray and gently slam it down a couple of times on the oven rack. This can help them spread a bit more. If the dough was too cold initially, allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before baking next time.
Are these cookies safe for my gluten-sensitive friends?
Absolutely! These gluten free pumpkin cookies are made with gluten free all-purpose baking flour, making them a great choice for anyone avoiding gluten. However, always double-check the labels on your ingredients, especially the flour, to ensure they are certified gluten-free, thus preventing cross-contamination.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Very much so! Feel free to get creative with your gluten free pumpkin cookies. Walnuts or pecans are wonderful options to enhance the flavor, or even butterscotch chips for an extra indulgent twist. Just be mindful that adding ingredients can slightly change the texture and baking time, so keep an eye on them!
Irresistible Gluten Free Pumpkin Cookies with Chocolate Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. This step ensures that your cookies bake evenly, providing that perfect soft center and lightly crisped edges.
- Cream together the room temperature butter, light brown sugar, and white sugar in a mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer to blend until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Mix in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract. Beat until well incorporated, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully together.
- Combine the dry ingredients (gluten free flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt) with the wet mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms, ensuring all the flour is well integrated.
- Fold in the chocolate chips gently. This step is crucial for evenly distributing the chocolate throughout the dough.
- Scoop heaping tablespoons of dough onto a lined baking sheet. Space them a few inches apart, as they'll spread while baking.
- Bake for 13-18 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden brown and the centers appear matte. It's important to keep an eye on them!
- Sprinkle a few extra chocolate chips on top of the cookies immediately after they're out of the oven. This gives a beautiful and inviting look!
- Adjust the spread of your cookies by gently slamming the baking sheet down a couple of times on the oven rack if needed. This fun little tip helps to create perfect cookies!
- Cool the cookies for at least 30 minutes on a wire rack before enjoying. This allows them to set up, making them even more delightful to bite into.