Halloween Chocolate Chip Cookies

Halloween chocolate chip cookies are a spooky-sweet twist on a classic favorite. Soft, chewy, and loaded with chocolate chips, these cookies get a festive upgrade with Halloween-colored candies, sprinkles, or edible eyes. They’re easy to make, fun to decorate, and perfect for parties, trick-or-treat bags, or a cozy night in with scary movies.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love how these cookies bring all the comfort of homemade chocolate chip cookies with just the right amount of Halloween fun. They’re simple enough to make with kids and easy to customize with whatever festive mix-ins I have on hand. Plus, they taste amazing — soft in the middle, slightly crisp on the edges, and packed with chocolatey goodness.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Brown sugar
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips
• Halloween-colored M&M’s or chocolate candies
• Halloween sprinkles
• Candy eyes (optional, for a spooky touch)

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, I cream the softened butter with brown and white sugar until light and fluffy.
4. I beat in the eggs and vanilla until smooth.
5. I gradually mix in the dry ingredients just until combined.
6. I fold in the chocolate chips, Halloween candies, and sprinkles.
7. I scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them a few inches apart.
8. I gently press a few extra candies or candy eyes onto the tops for decoration.
9. I bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers look just set.
10. I let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 24 cookies.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: 25–30 minutes

Variations

• I use dark cocoa powder for a chocolate cookie base.
• I add orange food coloring to the dough for an extra Halloween pop.
• I use mini marshmallows or chopped candy bars in place of chocolate chips.
• I swap in peanut butter or white chocolate chips for variety.

Storage/Reheating

I store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them extra soft, I sometimes place a slice of bread in the container. These cookies also freeze well — either the dough or the baked cookies — for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, I often make the dough ahead and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. I let it come to room temperature for easier scooping, or I bake straight from the fridge with a slightly longer bake time.

How do I keep the cookies soft?

I don’t overbake them. I pull them from the oven when the centers are still soft — they continue cooking on the baking sheet. I also store them in an airtight container.

Can I use store-bought cookie dough?

Absolutely. I just mix in the Halloween candies, sprinkles, and decorations to customize it quickly.

Are these cookies kid-friendly?

Definitely. Kids love helping decorate with sprinkles and candy eyes. It’s a great activity for Halloween parties or family baking nights.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, I’ve had good results using a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. I make sure my mix-ins are also gluten-free.

Conclusion

Halloween chocolate chip cookies are a festive, fun, and delicious way to celebrate the spooky season. With their soft centers, melty chocolate, and playful decorations, they’re always a hit — whether I’m sharing them at a party, gifting them to friends, or just sneaking a few for myself. They bring all the joy of Halloween in every sweet, chewy bite.

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