Name: Irresistibly Soft Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookies for Fall
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed); 1 cup dark brown sugar; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1/4 cup molasses; 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional); 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As the leaves turn and the air crisps, the aroma of soft and chewy Fall Spiced Chocolate Chip Cookies wafts through my kitchen, instantly whisking me back to cozy autumn days. These delightful cookies, inspired by the legendary Levain Bakery, bring together dark brown sugar, rich molasses, and a sprinkle of warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The result? An irresistible treat that not only warms your heart but also makes a perfect companion for your favorite hot beverage. With minimal prep time and a texture that boasts both chewiness and a golden-brown edge, you’ll find these cookies are destined to be your new fall favorite. Ready to turn your kitchen into a fragrant autumn haven? Let’s get baking!

Why Are These Cookies So Special?

Irresistible Flavor: With dark brown sugar and molasses, these cookies promise a depth of sweetness that will leave you craving more.

Autumn’s Essence: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger bring the warm aromas of fall right into your kitchen, creating a nostalgic baking experience.

Chewy Perfection: Achieve the ultimate soft and chewy texture with just the right amount of golden-brown edges that add a delightful contrast.

Quick & Easy: This recipe requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy schedules or spontaneous baking sessions.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Serve these cookies at gatherings, and watch as they quickly disappear, earning rave reviews from friends and family.

For an extra sweet twist, consider making a batch of Chocolate Peanut Butter cookies next time for even more indulgence!

Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookie Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough
• Butter – Use unsalted for better control of saltiness, ensuring a rich and moist cookie.
• Dark Brown Sugar – Adds a deep, rich flavor from molasses; light brown sugar can be a perfect alternative.
• Sugar – This white sugar boosts sweetness and contributes to that desired chewy texture.
• Egg – Acts as a binder for all ingredients, adding essential moisture and stability.
• Molasses – Enhances the cookie’s flavor with its deep sweetness, perfect for this Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookie.
• Flour – All-purpose flour provides the necessary structure to hold these cookies together.
• Baking Soda – A leavening agent that helps give the cookies their delightful puffiness.
• Cornstarch – Keeps the cookie texture soft and thick, ensuring every bite is a pleasure.
• Salt – Enhances all the flavors; reduce or omit if using salted butter.

For the Spices
• Cinnamon – Infuses warmth and sweetness, making these cookies perfect for fall.
• Ground Ginger – Offers a spicy warmth characteristic of traditional fall flavors.
• Ground Nutmeg – Introduces a subtle sweetness and rich depth, enhancing the overall taste.
• Ground Cloves (optional) – Adds an earthy, aromatic note to the mix for a complete flavor experience.

For the Chocolate
• Chocolate Chips/Chunks – Semi-sweet is recommended, providing a rich, melted chocolate experience; feel free to experiment with alternatives for fun variations.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This crucial step ensures that your Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookies will bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown color. While the oven is heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for the freshly baked cookies.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine cold, cubed unsalted butter with dark brown sugar and regular sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed for about 4 minutes, or until it becomes light and fluffy. This step is essential for achieving a chewy texture in your Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookies.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, add in the rich molasses and the egg to the butter-sugar mixture. Continue mixing for an additional minute until everything is smoothly combined. The molasses not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to the cookies’ soft, chewy consistency, which is a hallmark of these delightful treats.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cornstarch, salt, and your warming spices—cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and optional cloves. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients using a spatula, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as you want the dough to remain tender for your Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookies.

Step 5: Incorporate Chocolate Chips
Now it’s time to introduce the semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks into your cookie dough. Gently fold them in until evenly distributed throughout the mixture. The melted chocolate in every bite will add a rich sweetness that pairs perfectly with the spiced flavor of the cookies.

Step 6: Form the Cookies
With your dough ready, scoop out portions of dough that are approximately 4-6 ounces each and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, allowing ample space between each ball to accommodate their spread as they bake. This will ensure that your Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookies come out beautifully shaped.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake the cookies for about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should appear slightly underbaked in the center while being golden brown on the edges. This slight underbaking is key to achieving that soft, chewy texture.

Step 8: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on it for 10-15 minutes. This resting time allows the cookies to firm up slightly before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Your Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookies will be warm, inviting, and irresistibly delicious!

Expert Tips for Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookies

Butter Temperature: Use cold, cubed butter to create the desired chewy texture. Room temperature butter can lead to overly spread cookies.
Do Not Overmix: When combining dry and wet ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
Chill Dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking; this helps prevent excess spreading.
Watch the Bake Time: Thicker cookies may require a minute or two longer in the oven. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheets with parchment to ensure easy removal and to maintain the cookies’ soft bottoms.
Flavor Variation: Feel free to experiment by adding nuts or altering the spices if you desire a unique twist on your Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookies!

How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookies

Airtight Container: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their soft, chewy texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer in an airtight freezer bag or container to prevent freezer burn.

Unbaked Dough: If you want fresh cookies at a moment’s notice, freeze unbaked cookie dough balls. Just scoop the dough, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag for future baking.

Reheating: To enjoy that fresh-baked taste, reheat cookies in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until warm, bringing back that delightful texture of your Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookies!

Make Ahead Options

These Soft & Chewy Fall Spiced Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy homemade treats without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance. Simply mix all the ingredients and form the dough into balls, then refrigerate in an airtight container. This helps maintain freshness and quality while preventing browning. When you’re ready to bake, just preheat your oven and place the chilled dough balls on a baking sheet. Bake for about 8-10 minutes, and you’ll have warm, delicious cookies that taste just as delightful as if they were freshly made!

Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookie Variations

Feel free to get creative and put your unique spin on these delightful cookies. Your kitchen will be filled with an even more inviting aroma with these tasty twists!

Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with coconut oil or dairy-free margarine for a vegan-friendly version without losing the rich flavor.
Nutty Crunch: Add 1 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for a delicious crunch that complements the soft texture beautifully. Each bite will blend the earthy taste of nuts with warm spices, making it an exciting treat.
Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend—just ensure it has xanthan gum for the right texture. These cookies will delight everyone, gluten-averse or not!
Spice Variation: For a bolder flavor, increase cinnamon and ginger or introduce 1/2 teaspoon of cardamom to the mix for an exotic touch. It’s a lovely way to evoke the essence of autumn spices.
Chocolate Lovers: Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate or milk chocolate chunks for a richer or sweeter alternative. The melting chocolate mingles seamlessly with the spices for an indulgent experience.
Caramel Drizzle: Add a drizzle of warm caramel over the cookies after baking for a rich, decadent finish that’s utterly irresistible. It elevates them to a whole new level of deliciousness!
Cinnamon Sugar Coating: Roll the cookie dough balls in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar before baking for added sweetness and a delightful crunch on the exterior. It’s a simple touch that adds a cozy charm.
Pumpkin Spice Twist: Incorporate 1/4 cup of pumpkin puree in place of some butter for a seasonal pumpkin spice flavor, making a perfect addition to your fall festivities. These cookies will capture the heart of autumn!

With these variations, you can also dive into other sweet recipes like delicious Butter Toffee Chocolate cookies or delightful Caramel Chocolate Cookies to keep your autumn baking exciting! Enjoy every delicious bite!

What to Serve with Soft & Chewy Fall Spiced Chocolate Chip Cookies

Indulging in these heavenly cookies is just the beginning; let’s elevate your autumn experience by pairing them with delightful accompaniments.

Pumpkin Spice Latte: The warm, creamy flavors of this seasonal drink enhance the cozy spices in the cookies, creating a comforting experience.
Caramel Ice Cream: A scoop of this rich, buttery treat drizzled with warm caramel sauce adds a deliciously sweet contrast to the spiced flavors.
Pecan Pie: The nutty sweetness of this classic dessert melds beautifully with the rich, spiced chocolate cookies—perfect for holiday gatherings.
Apple Cinnamon Tea: The warm, fragrant notes in this tea echo the autumn spices of the cookies, creating a soothing sip that invites relaxation.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness and slight crispness balance the rich, chewy cookies, adding a wholesome touch to your sweet spread.
Chili Hot Chocolate: A twist on the classic drink, this spicy chocolate pairs wonderfully with the cookies, warming you up from the inside out.
Maple Glazed Donuts: Lively maple flavors add another layer of sweetness to your cookie experience, making for an indulgent fall snack.
Warm Cider: A glass of spiced apple cider brings an authentic taste of autumn that complements the cookies’ spices perfectly, warming your heart and soul.

Enjoy these pairings and create a delightful table that celebrates the flavors of the season with your Soft & Chewy Fall Spiced Chocolate Chip Cookies!

zhlg3h0mjgebnrpr2mom

Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookie Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, choose unsalted butter that is cold and firm, as it will help create a chewy cookie. When selecting dark brown sugar, look for a rich color with no hard clumps, indicating it’s fresh. The molasses should have a deep, robust scent, as this enhances the flavor profile of your cookies.

How should I store the baked cookies?
To keep your cookies soft and chewy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If they start to lose their moisture, simply place a slice of bread in the container; the cookies will absorb the moisture from the bread, keeping them fresh longer!

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Certainly! To freeze the unbaked cookie dough, scoop the balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and freeze them for 1-2 hours until solid. Then, transfer the dough balls to an airtight freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very often, an overmixing of the dough can lead to excessive spreading. To troubleshoot, make sure to only mix until just combined and consider chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. If they’re too flat, try using cold butter and check that your baking soda is still active by testing it with vinegar or lemon juice—there’s nothing worse than cookies that don’t rise!

Are these cookies suitable for those with nut allergies?
Yes! These Chocolate Chip Spiced Cookies do not contain any nuts, making them a great choice for those with nut allergies. However, always double-check your chocolate chip packaging as some brands may process their chips in nut facilities. Always err on the side of caution!

How can I achieve the best texture for my cookies?
To achieve the perfectly chewy, soft texture, it’s vital to use cold, cubed butter, and avoid overmixing the dough. Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking can prevent too much spread. Monitor the baking time closely and remove them from the oven while they’re still slightly underbaked; they will continue to firm up as they cool!