Description
Welcome to a delightful baking adventure that’s perfect for fall! If you’re searching for the perfect Halloween-inspired treat, look no further than Spooky Chocolate Pumpkin Spider Cookies. These fun and festive cookies combine the rich, decadent taste of chocolate with the warmth of pumpkin and spices, creating a cookie that’s not only delicious but also perfect for spooky season. Whether you’re hosting a Halloween party or looking for a fun baking project with kids, these spider-shaped cookies will surely be a hit. Let’s dive into this chocolate pumpkin spider cookies recipe and create some magic in the kitchen!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup candy eyes (you can find these at most baking stores or online)
- 1/2 cup melted dark chocolate (for decorating the spider legs)
Optional Substitutions:
- For a gluten-free option, replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- If you prefer dairy-free cookies, use dairy-free butter and chocolate chips.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure the cookies don’t stick and bake evenly.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream together the 1 cup softened butter, 1 cup brown sugar, and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect cookie texture—soft and chewy.
Step 3: Add Eggs, Vanilla, and Pumpkin
Next, beat in the 2 large eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and 1 cup of pumpkin puree. The pumpkin adds moisture and a hint of sweetness to the dough, giving these cookies a distinctive fall flavor.
Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. The spices add warmth and depth to the cookies, perfectly complementing the pumpkin and chocolate.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough. Stir in the 1 cup dark chocolate chips for added richness and texture.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Using your hands or a cookie scoop, roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to leave enough space between each cookie to allow for spreading.
Step 7: Bake
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are slightly cracked. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Decorate the Spiders
Once the cookies have cooled, melt 1/2 cup of dark chocolate and use it to create the spider legs by drizzling it over the cookies. While the chocolate is still soft, press candy eyes into the center of each cookie to form the spider face. Allow the chocolate to set before serving.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Chilling the Dough: If your dough feels too soft to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before rolling. This will make it easier to shape and prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
- Uniform Size: For evenly sized cookies, use a cookie scoop to portion the dough. This ensures even baking.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before you begin. This will help the ingredients combine more smoothly and give you a better texture.