There’s something heartwarming about baking during the spookiest season of the year—especially when it turns out buttery, soft-chewy, and joyfully sprinkled. These Halloween Chocolate Chip Cookies are that cozy hug in cookie form. With just one bowl, simple pantry staples, and under 10 minutes to prep (plus some chill time), this recipe brings together gentle nostalgia and fun flair with candy eyes and sprinkles. Perfect for a family bake-off, last-minute party treats, or simply sweetening up your autumn evenings.
Recipe Info
| Category | Dessert / Snack |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes (plus chill time) |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Servings | About 18 cookies |
| Calories | Approx. 220 kcal per cookie |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar (about 67 g)
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar (about 100 g)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled (about 186 g)
- 1½ cups chocolate chips
- ½–¾ cup Halloween sprinkles
- Candy eyes (optional but oh-so fun!)
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Mix the buttery base
In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and cozy. - Add the wet ingredients
Stir in the egg and vanilla until everything is just blended and glossy. - Fold in dry ingredients
Sprinkle in salt, baking soda, and flour. Mix gently with a spoon or spatula until just combined—no overmixing, please! - Sprinkle in the fun
Fold in chocolate chips and Halloween sprinkles until the dough looks bright and cheerful. - Chill the dough
Cover the bowl and chill in the fridge for about 2 hours. This helps the cookies bake up thick and chewy. - Bake to perfection
Preheat your oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Scoop ~2 tbsp dough balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced by about 2 inches. Bake 11–13 minutes, until edges are lightly golden. - Add the finishing touch
As soon as the cookies come out, gently press candy eyes into the warm cookies so they stick. Let the cookies cool on the tray before enjoying.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- One-bowl magic: Using melted butter makes this recipe simple and mixer-free—just mix by hand!
- Chill is key: Chilling stops spreading so you get that chewy center and golden edge.
- Storage: These cookies stay delicious in an airtight container at room temperature for 3–5 days. You can also freeze baked or unbaked dough for up to 2–3 months.
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-free twist: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for pantry-friendly adaptation.
- Spiced surprise: Mix in ½ teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon to give a cozy autumnal warmth.
- Lower-sugar version: Swap half of the granulated sugar for applesauce and use dark chocolate chips to cut sweetness while keeping flavor rich.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a warm cup of cocoa, cider, or milk for extra cozy vibes.
- Arrange cookies on a rustic wooden board alongside mini pumpkins or autumn leaves for a charming treat display.
- Add extra sprinkles or colored sugar around the edges before baking to make each cookie pop with festive flair.
Conclusion
There you go—Halloween Chocolate Chip Cookies that are as simple to bake as they are heartwarming to share. Whether you’re baking with family, preparing for a gathering, or treating yourself, these cookies bring delight with every gooey bite. Let the scent of warm sugar and chocolate fill your home, slide a cookie or two with a cozy drink, and enjoy a moment of pure, nostalgic joy. Happy baking and even happier hauntings!