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### 6. Scoop and bake
Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, spaced about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and just lightly browned but the centers still look soft.
### 7. Cool and enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy with a glass of milk, hot coffee, or a spicy chai latte for maximum fall vibes.
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## Tips for the Perfect Cookie
* **Don’t overbake**: The centers should stay soft and slightly underbaked when you pull them out — they’ll continue to set as they cool.
* **Pumpkin puree choice matters**: Use canned pumpkin puree (100% pumpkin), NOT pumpkin pie filling, which has added sugars and spices.
* **Chill the dough**: If you have time, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much.
* **Add nuts for crunch**: If you love texture, toss in 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans.
* **Make it vegan**: Substitute the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter, and use a flax egg instead of a regular egg.
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## Why These Cookies Make the Best Christmas Gifts
Baked goods are one of the most thoughtful gifts you can give during the holidays. They show care, warmth, and effort. These pumpkin chocolate chip cookies are especially great gifts because:
* **They’re seasonal yet universally loved**: Everyone appreciates the cozy flavors of fall spices mixed with chocolate.
* **They travel well**: Packaged in cute tins or decorated jars, they’re easy to send or hand out.
* **They’re customizable**: Add sprinkles for Christmas, drizzle with white chocolate, or wrap with festive ribbons.
* **They make for a lovely homemade touch**: In a season of commercial gifts, a homemade treat stands out.
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## Creative Serving Suggestions
While these cookies are amazing on their own, try these twists to elevate your dessert game:
* **Pumpkin cookie sandwiches**: Spread cream cheese frosting between two cookies for an irresistible sandwich.
* **Cookie & ice cream combo**: Serve slightly warmed cookies with vanilla or cinnamon ice cream.
* **Dip in hot cocoa**: Dunk your cookie in a mug of hot cocoa topped with whipped cream.
* **Add caramel drizzle**: Drizzle some homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the cookies for extra indulgence.
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## Beyond Fall: Making These Cookies Year-Round
Though pumpkin is often reserved for autumn, I find these cookies just as satisfying year-round. Why limit joy? In summer, pair them with a scoop of cold ice cream or alongside fresh fruit for a refreshing twist. During springtime, their warm spice notes can be a reminder of cozy nights as the seasons shift.
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## The Joy of Baking & Sharing
Making these cookies reminded me why I love baking so much. The process — mixing, smelling those spices, the anticipation of fresh-from-the-oven cookies — fills your home with warmth and happiness. And sharing those cookies with family and friends creates memories that linger longer than any ingredient list.
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## Final Thoughts
My new favorite fall treat has become a year-round staple in my kitchen, a symbol of comfort and love wrapped in a delicious cookie. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen newbie, I promise these Spiced Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies will quickly become a beloved recipe in your repertoire. Try baking a batch this weekend — and if you’re looking for the perfect Christmas gift idea, this might just be it!
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Would you like me to help you create the recipe card or printable version for easy sharing? Or maybe a detailed holiday gift packaging guide? Just let me know!
