Name: Healthy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 21 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 Cup Canned Pumpkin; 1 Cup Coconut Sugar; 1/2 Cup Coconut Oil; 1 Egg; 1 tbsp Vanilla Extract; 2 Cups White Whole Wheat Flour; 2 tsp Baking Powder; 1 Tsp Ground Cinnamon; 1/2 Tsp Pumpkin Pie Spice; 1/2 Tsp Fine Sea Salt; 1 1/2 Cups Chocolate Chips

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving something deliciously comforting yet guilt-free, these Healthy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are an absolute game-changer. Bursting with the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices, and studded with melty chocolate chips, each bite is chewy, moist, and satisfying without the excess sugar or processed ingredients. Perfect for fall baking or anytime you want a cozy treat, this recipe combines wholesome ingredients to bring you cookies that taste indulgent but nourish your body—a delightful way to enjoy dessert with a healthy twist.

Healthy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each playing a special role in making these cookies tender, flavorful, and perfectly spiced. From the natural sweetness of coconut sugar to the wholesome body provided by whole wheat flour, the combination speaks volumes about how simple pantry staples can come together into something truly delicious.

1 Cup Canned Pumpkin: Adds moisture, richness, and that iconic fall flavor while keeping the cookies soft.
1 Cup Coconut Sugar: A lower-glycemic alternative to regular sugar that lends a subtle caramel note.
1/2 Cup Coconut Oil: Brings healthy fats and a gentle tropical hint, while keeping the texture tender.
1 Egg: Acts as a binder to hold all the ingredients together perfectly.
1 tbsp Vanilla Extract: Enhances the sweetness and rounds out the spices beautifully.
2 Cups White Whole Wheat Flour: Gives structure to the cookies while adding fiber and nutrients.
2 tsp Baking Powder: Helps the cookies rise to a lovely, fluffy texture.
1 Tsp Ground Cinnamon: Key spice that complements pumpkin’s natural warmth.
1/2 Tsp Pumpkin Pie Spice: A fragrant blend that rounds out the autumnal flavors.
1/2 Tsp Fine Sea Salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies flavors.
1 1/2 Cups Chocolate Chips: The star treat providing melty pockets of chocolate joy in every bite.

How to Make Healthy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This prep ensures your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick, making cleanup a breeze and keeping the bottoms perfectly crisp.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the canned pumpkin, coconut sugar, softened coconut oil, vanilla extract, and egg. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated. This blend forms the moist and flavorful base of your cookie dough, so take a moment to appreciate how the aroma begins to build excitement for what’s coming.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together white whole wheat flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and fine sea salt. This dry mixture brings the needed structure and a burst of warm, seasonal spices that make these cookies feel so irresistible.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet pumpkin mixture, stirring gently just until everything comes together. Avoid overmixing to keep your cookies tender. Finally, fold in the chocolate chips so they’re evenly distributed, guaranteeing every cookie delivers those delightful chocolate pockets.

Step 5: Scoop and Bake

Drop spoonfuls of cookie dough about two inches apart on your prepared baking sheet. Feel free to press a few extra chocolate chips on top of each cookie for that extra chocolatey appeal. Bake for 10 to 11 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cookies cool on the pan for a couple of minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Healthy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Garnishes

While these cookies already shine, adding a light dusting of cinnamon sugar on top right after baking can elevate their cozy aroma and add a gentle crunch. You might also sprinkle some chopped nuts or drizzle a bit of melted dark chocolate for an extra-special touch that feels indulgent without compromising the healthy vibe.

Side Dishes

Pair these pumpkin cookies with a warm mug of spiced chai tea, a cup of rich coffee, or even creamy almond milk to complement their flavors. For breakfast or brunch, a dollop of Greek yogurt with honey on the side can balance the sweetness and make the snack a more rounded experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the cookies stacked on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of additional chocolate chips or nuts for dipping. You can also sandwich a spoonful of your favorite nut butter between two cookies for a playful twist that’s perfect for sharing. Gift-wrapping them in parchment tied with twine makes a heartwarming homemade gift that friends and family will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, store your Healthy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will keep fresh and chewy for up to 4 days. Keeping them sealed well is key to maintaining their soft texture and rich flavor.

Freezing

These cookies freeze wonderfully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Freezing is perfect for making a big batch ahead and having a healthful treat ready whenever the cravings hit.

Reheating

To enjoy them fresh after freezing, simply thaw the cookies at room temperature or warm them gently in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds. This reawakens their softness and melts the chocolate slightly, bringing them back to that fresh-from-the-oven magic.

FAQs

Can I substitute the coconut oil with another fat?

Yes, you can use melted butter or a neutral oil like avocado oil if coconut oil is unavailable or if you prefer a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different, but your Healthy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies will still be delicious.

Do I have to use canned pumpkin or can I use fresh pumpkin?

Canned pumpkin is recommended for its smooth texture and convenience, but fresh pumpkin can work if pureed well and strained. Make sure to cook and puree any fresh pumpkin thoroughly before using it in the recipe to achieve the right consistency.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

This recipe uses white whole wheat flour, so it is not gluten-free. However, you could try substituting with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup, but the texture and rise might vary slightly.

How can I make these cookies less sweet?

Feel free to reduce the coconut sugar by up to a quarter cup if you prefer a less sweet cookie. Because pumpkin and spices provide a lot of flavor, they won’t lose their appeal with a bit less sugar.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or even dried cranberries make excellent additions that add texture and complementary flavors to these Healthy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies. Just be sure not to add too much to keep the cookies’ delicate balance.

Final Thoughts

These Healthy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful way to celebrate fall flavors any time of year while staying mindful of wholesome ingredients. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—not only will you enjoy a scrumptious treat, but you’ll also feel great knowing it’s a nourishing option made from real food. Happy baking and happy snacking!

Healthy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 13 reviews

Author: Julian
Total Time: 21 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Healthy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delicious twist on a classic treat, featuring the natural sweetness and moisture of canned pumpkin combined with rich chocolate chips. Made with whole wheat flour and coconut sugar, these cookies offer a wholesome, fall-inspired indulgence that’s perfect for snack time or dessert.

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the canned pumpkin, coconut sugar, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and egg. Stir these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the white whole wheat flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and fine sea salt. This ensures the spices and leavening are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Mix Wet and Dry Components: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet pumpkin mixture. Stir gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can make cookies tough. Fold in the chocolate chips evenly throughout the dough.
Portion Cookies: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Optionally, press a few extra chocolate chips on top of each cookie for a decorative touch.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 11 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Cool Cookies: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 2 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, which helps them set and develop the perfect chewy texture.

Notes

For a vegan version, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water) and ensure chocolate chips are dairy-free.
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
Using white whole wheat flour maintains a lighter texture while providing extra fiber compared to all-purpose flour.
Add nuts such as chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and nutrition if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 11 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American