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As the crisp autumn breeze begins to sweep through the trees, my thoughts inevitably turn to the comforting embrace of baked goods. There’s something deeply satisfying about filling the kitchen with the warm scents of cinnamon, nutmeg, and rich chocolate—like a cozy hug for the senses.

This recipe for Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies emerged from a delightful riff on my usual go-to treats, turning simple ingredients into an irresistible snack. Picture this: chewy oats, soft pumpkin, and gooey chocolate chips all melding together to create cookies that are as delicious as they are nourishing.

These cookies are not just a treat for the taste buds; they bring versatility to any occasion—be it a festive gathering, a midday snack, or an afternoon pick-me-up with your favorite cup of tea. And the best part? They’re surprisingly simple to whip up, making it easy to indulge without feeling overwhelmed in the kitchen. Ready your mixing bowls, because these Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies are about to become your new favorite!

Why Love Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies?

Irresistible flavor: The blend of pumpkin and chocolate is pure magic, evoking warm, nostalgic feelings.
Easy to make: This recipe requires just a few simple steps, perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
Nutritious twist: Packed with oats and pumpkin, these cookies offer a delightful dose of fiber and nutrients.
Versatile treats: Ideal for fall gatherings, lunchboxes, or as a cozy snack with tea, they suit every occasion.
Crowd-pleaser: Friends and family die for these scrumptious cookies, making them a must for any get-together!
For more delightful snacks, don’t forget to check out my post on healthy cookie alternatives!

Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies Ingredients

• Get ready to delight your senses!

For the Cookie Base

Canned pumpkin – 1 can (15 ounces) adds moisture and flavor to create soft, chewy cookies.
Old-fashioned oats – 3 cups lend a heartiness and texture that complements the sweetness.
All-purpose flour – 2 cups provide structure for the cookies; feel free to substitute with whole wheat for more fiber.
Ground cinnamon – 2 teaspoons infuse warmth and spice, making every bite indulgently cozy.
Baking soda – 1 teaspoon acts as a leavening agent, helping the cookies rise beautifully.
Salt – 1 teaspoon enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Ground ginger – 1/2 teaspoon introduces a zesty kick, elevating the taste profile.
Ground cloves – 1/4 teaspoon adds depth with its aromatic touch.
Ground nutmeg – 1/4 teaspoon contributes that classic fall spice note, making these Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies unforgettable.

For the Sweetness

Unsalted butter – 1 cup (melted) ensures a rich and moist cookie base; use coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
Sugar – 2/3 cup balances sweetness; you can substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier twist.
Brown sugar – 1 cup packed adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.

For Binding and Flavor

Large egg – 1 (room temperature) holds everything together for a perfect dough.
Vanilla extract – 2 teaspoons enhances the overall flavor profile with its sweet aroma.

For the Chocolate Indulgence

Semisweet chocolate chips – 1 cup brings gooey goodness, making these cookies irresistibly delicious.

Get ready to enjoy every gooey bite of these Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies!

How to Make Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line two 15x10x1-inch baking sheets with parchment paper, ensuring they are ready for your cookie masterpieces.
Squeeze the canned pumpkin! Place it in a shallow bowl lined with paper towels, covering it with another towel. Press gently to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve the perfect cookie texture.
Mix the dry ingredients in a large bowl. Combine oats, flour, cinnamon, baking soda, salt, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg. This aromatic blend sets the stage for crunchy yet soft cookies.
Combine the wet ingredients. In another bowl, mix melted butter, sugar, and brown sugar until creamy. Add in the egg, vanilla extract, and pumpkin, blending well.
Incorporate the dry into wet ingredients. Gradually add the flour mixture to the pumpkin mix, stirring until the dough is thick, wet, and sticky. Fold in those delightful chocolate chips for gooey goodness.
Scoop out the dough. Use a tablespoon to scoop 2 tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2-3 inches apart. Flatten each mound with the back of a spoon to create discs about 1/2-inch thick.
Bake for 5 minutes, then gently tap the tray 3-4 times on the counter to flatten the cookies. Return to the oven for another 6-8 minutes or until golden around the edges and set in the center.
Cool the cookies for 5 minutes on the baking sheets before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing their flavors to deepen.

Optional: Drizzle melted white chocolate on top for an extra touch of sweetness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative with these delicious Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies and make them your own!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a delightful twist that everyone can enjoy. It keeps the cookies just as chewy and satisfying.
Nutty Crunch: Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a satisfying crunch and additional flavor. The nuttiness perfectly complements the soft texture of the cookie.
Dairy-Free: Substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips for a version that’s friendly to dairy-free eaters. These cookies will still be wonderfully rich!
Spiced Variation: Boost the spice level by adding a dash of cayenne pepper or a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice to the dry ingredients. It’s a sassy spin that’ll warm your soul.
Extra Chocolate: Want to turn up the indulgence? Swirl in a tablespoon of chocolate syrup into the dough or use dark chocolate chips instead of semisweet for that extra chocolatey goodness.
Fruity Twist: Replace half the chocolate chips with dried cranberries or raisins to introduce a chewy fruity flavor that beautifully contrasts the pumpkin’s earthiness.
Sugar Substitutes: Use maple syrup or honey instead of granulated sugar for a naturally sweetened version. Just reduce the amount of flour slightly to balance the moisture.
Pumpkin Spice Frosting: Finish off these cookies with a swirl of pumpkin spice cream cheese frosting on top for an ultimate indulgent treat that’s sure to impress!

What to Serve with Pumpkin Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies?

As you dive into your delicious batch of cookies, consider pairing them with delightful accompaniments to enhance your tasty experience.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The coolness of vanilla ice cream perfectly contrasts the warm, spiced cookies, creating an irresistible dessert duo.
Hot Apple Cider: A steaming cup of apple cider, with its warm spices, creates a cozy atmosphere that beautifully complements the cookie flavors.
Spiced Coffee: A rich, aromatic coffee spiced with cinnamon or nutmeg enhances the cookie’s earthy notes, making for a comforting afternoon treat.
Chocolate Milk: This delightful pairing brings out the cookie’s chocolate chips and provides a nostalgic touch to your snack time routine!
Roasted Nuts: A handful of roasted pecans or walnuts offers a crunchy texture that contrasts delightfully with the chewy cookies, adding depth to every bite.
Fruit Salad: A fresh mix of seasonal fruits, like apples and pears, brightens your dessert table and adds a splash of freshness alongside the rich cookies.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of real maple syrup over the cookies adds a sweet, sticky element that perfectly complements the pumpkin and spices.
Homemade Whipped Cream: Fluffy whipped cream adds an indulgent touch, along with a sprinkle of cinnamon to enhance the cozy fall flavors.
Lemonade: A refreshing glass of lemonade can lighten up the richness of the cookies, creating a balanced treat that mingles sweet and tart together.

Tips for the Best Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies

Moisture Control: Make sure to remove excess moisture from the pumpkin to avoid soggy cookies; pressing it with paper towels is key.

Dough Consistency: The dough should be thick and sticky. If it’s too dry, a splash of milk can help reach the perfect consistency for your Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies.

Even Spacing: Space your cookie mounds 2-3 inches apart on the baking sheets. This allows them to spread correctly, preventing them from merging into one another.

Gentle Tapping: Remember to gently tap the baking trays after the first baking period. This step helps flatten the cookies for that perfect, chewy texture.

Cooling Time: Allow the cookies to cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set properly and enhances their flavor.

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance—just mix everything and refrigerate it in an airtight container. To maintain the cookies’ delightful texture, ensure the pumpkin is well-drained, as excess moisture can affect the outcome. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop and flatten the dough on baking sheets, and bake as directed—no thawing necessary! Alternatively, you can bake the cookies and refrigerate them for up to 3 days; reheat briefly in a warm oven before serving to revive that fresh-baked goodness. Enjoy the ease of having these delectable Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies ready when you need them!

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and chewy, perfect for snacking!

Fridge: For longer freshness, keep the cookies in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure they are tightly sealed to prevent them from drying out.

Freezer: Freeze individual cookies or packaged batches for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag to avoid freezer burn.

Reheating: To enjoy a warm cookie, pop it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds after thawing. You’ll be treated to that gooey chocolatey goodness all over again!

Pumpkin Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best canned pumpkin?
Absolutely! When choosing canned pumpkin, look for pure pumpkin puree without added spices or sugars. Check the label for a deep orange color, indicating that it’s rich in beta-carotene. Avoid cans that are dented or bulging, as these could suggest spoilage.

How should I store my Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies?
Very! After cooling, place your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them even fresher, you can store them in the fridge for up to a week. Just ensure they’re sealed properly to maintain their soft and chewy texture.

Can I freeze Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual cookies in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This prevents freezer burn and helps retain their flavor. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave for 10-15 seconds for that freshly baked taste.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too dry?
No worries! If your dough seems dry and crumbly, simply add a splash of milk (1-2 tablespoons) while mixing until you reach a thick, sticky consistency. This should help incorporate the ingredients better and create those delicious, chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies.

Can my pet eat pumpkin in cookies?
Pumpkin is safe for dogs in small quantities. However, these cookies contain sugar and chocolate chips, which are harmful to pets. Always keep your treats out of reach of furry friends for their safety!

What if I have a gluten allergy?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it’s a one-to-one ratio for the best results. Your Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies will still turn out delectable and safe for your gluten-sensitive family members!

These FAQs will help guide you through every step of making these delightful cookies, ensuring that your baking experience is a joyful one!