At Shrub Oak International School, we embrace each season as an opportunity to explore new flavors, traditions, activities, and learning experiences. Recently, our students participated in a deliciously festive activity in the kitchen—baking pumpkin chocolate chip cookies. The recipe introduced a seasonal twist to a beloved classic, combining the warm, aromatic spice of pumpkin with the familiar sweetness of chocolate chip cookies. By incorporating a new ingredient into a favorite treat, our students practiced flexibility, creativity, and sensory exploration in a fun and rewarding way.
Baking and cooking at Shrub Oak International School is never just about following a recipe: it is about discovery, communication, and skill-building. As students measured, stirred, and tasted, they engaged in a multisensory process that encouraged collaboration and patience. The scent of cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin filled the kitchen, creating an inviting space where students could connect through a shared experience. For some, the idea of trying pumpkin in a cookie was unfamiliar, but with encouragement and the support of our staff, many found joy in tasting something new.
The pumpkin chocolate chip cookie baking project also provided opportunities to practice important life skills. Students learned how to read a recipe, measure ingredients accurately, and use kitchen tools safely under staff guidance. The process reinforced sequencing and executive functioning skills as students followed each step from mixing the batter to timing the bake. Every moment in the kitchen offered hands-on learning aligned with our transdisciplinary approach, where academic, life, and social skills blend naturally into everyday activities.
Introducing pumpkin as a key ingredient brought a lesson in nutrition as well. We talked about how pumpkin is rich in vitamins A and C, and how its natural sweetness allows for using less refined sugar. Students compared the taste and texture to traditional chocolate chip cookies, noting how the pumpkin made them soft, moist, and slightly spiced. The addition of chocolate chips balanced the earthy flavor, resulting in a comforting fall treat that appealed to both familiar and adventurous palates.
At Shrub Oak International School, we use cooking projects like this to encourage curiosity and growth. Baking pumpkin chocolate chip cookies reminded us that trying new things can lead to wonderful discoveries, both in and out of the kitchen. Through each seasonal recipe, we continue to celebrate creativity, sensory engagement, and the joy of learning together.
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ¾ cup pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F: Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs, one at a time, followed by vanilla extract and pumpkin purée. Mix until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
