Name: Fall Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookie Recipe for Ultimate Comfort
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Butter (cold and cut into cubes); 1 cup Dark Brown Sugar (light brown sugar is an excellent substitute); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (white sugar or a sugar alternative can be used); 1 large Egg (provides structure and moisture); 1/4 cup Molasses (golden syrup can be used as a substitute); 2 cups Flour (all-purpose flour is standard); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (check for freshness); 2 tablespoons Cornstarch (essential for optimal chewiness); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (reduce if using salted butter); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (adjust according to your taste preferences); 1/2 teaspoon Ground Ginger (can be reduced for a milder taste); 1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg (halve or omit if desired); 1/4 teaspoon Ground Cloves (optional but recommended); 1 cup Chocolate Chips or Chunks (semi-sweet chips like Ghirardelli are suggested)

With the crispness of autumn air nudging at my window, there’s no better time to fill my kitchen with the warm, nostalgic scent of baking. These Fall Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookies are my go-to comfort treats, combining rich dark brown sugar and a delightful mix of spices—think cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg—that perfectly embody the season. What I adore about this recipe is not only the chewy texture but also how quickly they come together—ideal for when unexpected guests drop by or when the craving for something sweet strikes. Plus, with pockets of melted chocolate mingling with the spiced dough, they are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any gathering. So, are you ready to indulge in a batch of these cozy cookies that scream autumn?

Why Are These Cookies a Must-Bake?

Irresistible Warmth: The blend of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg gives each bite a cozy, fall-inspired warmth that will wrap you in comfort.
Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps and common pantry staples, these cookies come together in no time, perfect for spontaneous baking sessions.
Chewy Goodness: Each cookie boasts a chewy texture with crispy edges, ensuring a delightful experience with every bite.
Crowd Favorite: With timeless chocolate chips mingled in spiced dough, these cookies are sure to impress family and friends alike.
Perfectly Versatile: Want to switch things up? Feel free to customize with your favorite chocolate or add nuts for an extra crunch. These cookies also pair wonderfully with hot apple cider or a cold glass of milk, making them an unbeatable fall treat!

Fall Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookie Ingredients

• Get ready to bake with these delightful flavors of fall!

For the Cookie Batter

Butter – Adds moisture and richness; use cold and cut into cubes for even mixing.
Dark Brown Sugar – Sweet and chewy, this sugar enhances flavor; light brown sugar is an excellent substitute.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies; you may use white sugar or a sugar alternative if desired.
Egg – Gives structure and moisture; a large egg is ideal for this recipe.
Molasses – Brings depth and chewiness; golden syrup can be used in a pinch.
Flour – The base for structure; all-purpose flour is standard, ensuring a great texture.
Baking Soda – Helps the cookies rise; check for freshness to ensure the best results.
Cornstarch – Adds tenderness to the texture; consider it essential for optimal chewiness.
Salt – Balances sweetness, reduce if using salted butter.
Cinnamon – Imbues warmth and spice; feel free to adjust according to your taste preferences.
Ground Ginger – Gives a signature autumn flavor; can be reduced for a milder taste.
Ground Nutmeg – Introduces nutty warmth; halve or omit if desired.
Ground Cloves – Intensifies spiced notes; this ingredient is optional but recommended.
Chocolate Chips or Chunks – Provides luscious pockets of chocolate; semi-sweet chips like Ghirardelli are suggested.

Indulge in these Fall Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookies; they’ll surely become a treasured addition to your autumn baking routine!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Fall Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial as it ensures your Fall Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookies bake evenly and achieve a perfectly gooey center. While your oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for the cookie dough.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine cold cubed butter with dark brown sugar and granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed for about 4 minutes, or until it turns light and fluffy. The result should appear pale and creamy, laying the perfect foundation for your cookies.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
Now, incorporate one large egg and molasses into your creamed mixture. Continue mixing for an additional minute until everything is well combined. The liquid ingredients should blend seamlessly into the fluffy mixture, giving your Fall Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookies that rich, spiced flavor.

Step 4: Mix in the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cornstarch, salt, cinnamon, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, and ground cloves. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients using a rubber spatula. Continue until no dry flour is visible, creating a beautifully blended dough that’s full of delightful autumn spices.

Step 5: Incorporate the Chocolate Chips
Once your dough is well combined, gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed. This step is where the magic happens—those warm, melted pockets of chocolate will make each bite of your Fall Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookies absolutely irresistible.

Step 6: Shape the Cookie Dough
Divide the dough into 4-6 ounce portions, rolling each piece into a ball. Place the dough balls on your prepared parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart. This step allows room for spreading, creating those delightful chewy edges when baked.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them—the cookies should look slightly underdone, with soft centers and golden edges. Trust your instincts; pulling them out at the right moment will ensure chewy Fall Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookies.

Step 8: Cool the Cookies
After baking, let the cookies sit on the baking sheet for 10-15 minutes. This resting time allows them to firm up without losing their delightful chewiness. Once slightly cooled, transfer them to a wire cooling rack to cool completely, filling your kitchen with that irresistible fall aroma.

Expert Tips for Fall Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookies

Consistent Sizing: Use a kitchen scale to ensure each cookie dough ball is equal, typically 4-6 ounces for consistent baking results.
Perfectly Chewy: For that coveted chewy texture, bake for just 8 minutes and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring.
Chill the Dough: For thicker cookies that hold their shape, consider chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
Don’t Skip the Cornstarch: Adding cornstarch can make a world of difference; it enhances tenderness and keeps your cookies soft.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spice amounts based on your taste; a little more cinnamon or ginger can enhance your Fall Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookie experience!

How to Store and Freeze Fall Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days to maintain freshness and chewy texture.

Fridge: If you prefer even softer cookies, store them in the fridge for up to 5 days; just be aware that they may absorb moisture, altering the texture slightly.

Freezer: To keep Fall Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookies longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding 1-2 extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating: To reheat cookies, simply pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to bring back that fresh-baked goodness.

Fall Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookie Variations

Feel free to play around with these flavors and textures to create your perfect fall cookies!

Nutty Delight: Add 1 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy twist and to elevate the nutty aroma.
Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips for a dairy-free option without compromising flavor.
Spice It Up: Increase the cinnamon or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a surprising zing, making your cookies memorable and spicy!
White Chocolate Swirl: Replace semi-sweet chocolate chips with white chocolate chips for a sweeter contrast against the spiced dough.
Pumpkin Spice Fusion: Incorporate 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree into the batter for a seasonal favorite; just reduce the molasses slightly to balance moisture.
Bourbon Infusion: Add 1 tablespoon of bourbon to the dough for an adult twist; this will amplify the richness and warmth.
Choco-Mint: Mix in a handful of crushed peppermint candies for a festive touch; enjoy the refreshing zing with that beloved chocolatey taste.

Get creative, and if you’re in the mood for more fun twists, you might want to try these Pumpkin Pie Tacos or Apple Biscuits with Honey Butter Glaze for your fall gatherings!

What to Serve with Fall Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookies

These delightful cookies are perfect for cozy gatherings or quiet moments at home, paired with warm flavors that fill your kitchen with the spirit of autumn.

Hot Apple Cider: The spiced sweetness of apple cider enhances the autumnal flavors of the cookies, creating a heartwarming beverage experience.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over warm cookies, creating a decadent contrast of textures. The cool creaminess balances the spiced warmth perfectly.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: This fall favorite’s rich flavors of coffee and spices harmonize with chocolate and spice in the cookies, making for an inviting duo. Imagine curling up with this delightful treat on a chilly day.
Chocolate Milk: The rich chocolatiness, paired with the spicy sweetness of the cookies, is an unbeatable nostalgic combination that’s perfect at any time of day.
Creamy Hot Chocolate: Enhance your indulgence with hot chocolate topped with whipped cream. The rich chocolate notes underline the cookies’ flavor while adding a cozy sip.
Peanut Butter Fudge Brownies: These are an exhilarating contrast to the spiced cookies, combining chewy and gooey textures that complement the spices with nutty undertones.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle decadent caramel sauce over the cookies or serve it on the side for dipping. The sweet, buttery richness elevates the flavors into something extra special.
Spiced Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai tea echo those in the cookies, creating a comforting match that soothes the soul as the weather turns cooler.
Maple Pecan Pie: Serve these cookies alongside slices of maple pecan pie, an unbeatable pairing of textures, flavors, and the ultimate fall dessert experience.

Make Ahead Options

These Fall Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookies are fantastic for meal prep, ensuring you’re ready for any sweet cravings that may arise! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing it and chilling it in the refrigerator to enhance the flavors while preventing any browning. If you’re looking to plan even further ahead, the dough can be rolled into balls and frozen for up to 3 months—just bake directly from the freezer, adding an extra 1-2 minutes to the baking time. When ready to enjoy, simply pull the dough from the fridge or oven, bake as directed, and you’ll have warm, delightful cookies that are just as good as freshly made!

Fall Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of butter should I use for the cookies?
Use cold, unsalted butter cut into cubes for even mixing. This method helps create the desired creamy texture and contributes to the cookie’s chewiness. Avoid softened butter, as it can affect the final texture of your cookies.

How should I store my Fall Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. This keeps them fresh while preserving that delightful chewy texture you crave. If you prefer them slightly softer, consider refrigerating them, but be cautious as they may absorb some moisture.

Can I freeze the cookie dough or baked cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cookie dough. Shape it into balls, place on a baking sheet in a single layer, and freeze until firm. Then, transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just add an extra 1-2 minutes to the baking time. If you have baked cookies left, they can also be frozen using the same method.

What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If you find your cookies spreading excessively, check if your butter was too soft or if you skipped chilling the dough. To troubleshoot, ensure you weigh your cookie dough balls for size consistency, and consider chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes prior to baking. This keeps them thicker and chewier.

Are these cookies safe for my pets?
No, these cookies are not safe for pets, especially due to ingredients like chocolate and sugar, which can be harmful to them. Always keep such treats away from animals, opting for pet-friendly recipes for any treat sharing.

Can I adjust the spices in my Fall Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookies?
Yes, feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste! You might want to reduce the ginger or cloves for a milder flavor or even increase the cinnamon if you love that warm, autumnal taste. Experimenting with spice ratios is a great way to personalize the recipe to your liking.