Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

Get ready for sweater weather with these Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies. Perfect for fall gatherings, cozy nights, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these cookies are a delightful blend of spices and pumpkin flavor. With their soft texture and chewy edges, they are sure to be a hit at any occasion. Plus, they’re made in one bowl, making cleanup a breeze!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple and quick, allowing you to whip up delicious cookies without any fuss.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of brown butter, pumpkin puree, and warm spices creates a rich and comforting taste that embodies fall.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for Halloween parties, Thanksgiving gatherings, or just as an afternoon snack with coffee or tea.
• One Bowl Wonder: Minimal dishes mean less cleanup—just mix everything in one bowl!
• Customizable Options: Add chocolate chips or nuts for an extra twist to suit your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the essential tools beforehand.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients. Having multiple sizes allows for better organization during the mixing process.
• Spatula: Perfect for folding ingredients together gently without overmixing the dough.
• Baking sheets: Flat surfaces ensure even baking for all your cookies.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and helps cookies bake evenly.

Ingredients

Wet Ingredients

• ¾ cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup light brown sugar
• ¼ cup white sugar
• 1 large egg yolk (room temperature)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• ¼ cup pumpkin puree

Dry Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 2 cups all purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ cup white sugar
• ½ tablespoon pumpkin pie spice

How to Make Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

Step 1: Brown the Butter

In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Once melted, increase the heat to medium. Let the butter begin to foam and cook while stirring with a spatula. Continue until it begins to brown and gives off a nutty smell (about 2–3 minutes). Pour into a medium mixing bowl and let it cool completely.

Step 2: Mix in Sugars

Once the brown butter has cooled, whisk in the granulated sugar and light brown sugar along with the maple syrup until well combined.

Step 3: Add Egg Yolk and Pumpkin

Add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree. Whisk everything together until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pumpkin pie spice, and ground cinnamon until evenly mixed.

Step 5: Form the Dough

Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a dough forms. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes.

Step 6: Preheat Oven

While the cookie dough chills, preheat your oven to 350℉/175℃. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 7: Shape Cookies

Scoop out cookie dough using a large cookie scoop or spoon so that each ball is about 2 tablespoons. In a small bowl, whisk together white sugar and pumpkin pie spice. Roll each cookie dough ball in this mixture before placing them on prepared baking sheets with enough space between them (3–4 inches apart).

Step 8: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for 10–14 minutes. The edges should be set while the middles will still look slightly underbaked.

Enjoy your homemade Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies, perfect for sharing or savoring all by yourself!

How to Serve Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

These soft and chewy pumpkin cookies are perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own. Whether you want a cozy treat with your coffee or a festive dessert for gatherings, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair these cookies with cold milk for a classic combination. The creaminess of the milk complements the spices in the cookies.

Warm and Fresh

• Serve them warm right out of the oven. The gooey texture will melt in your mouth, making each bite irresistible.

Drizzled with Icing

• Add a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk on top for an extra sweet touch. This adds visual appeal and enhances flavor.

On a Dessert Platter

• Display the cookies on a festive platter alongside other fall treats. This makes for an inviting dessert table at any gathering.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these cookies with your favorite coffee or tea. The spices in the cookies pair beautifully with warm beverages.

As Party Favors

• Package cookies in small bags tied with twine to give as party favors. This is a thoughtful gesture that guests will appreciate.

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How to Perfect Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

To ensure your pumpkin cookies come out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps the butter cream smoothly with sugars, resulting in better texture.
• Chill the Dough: Chilling prevents spreading and keeps the cookies thick and chewy.
• Don’t Overbake: Remove the cookies while they still look slightly underbaked for that soft center.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices based on personal taste; adding nutmeg or ginger can enhance flavor!
• Store Properly: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain softness.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and freeze it for later baking!

Best Side Dishes for Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

While these pumpkin cookies are delightful on their own, pairing them with certain sides can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some fantastic side dishes to consider:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream
   A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creamy sweetness that balances out the spiced flavors of the cookies.
2. Apple Cider
   This seasonal drink complements pumpkin flavors perfectly, offering a refreshing contrast.
3. Cream Cheese Frosting
   Spread this rich frosting over the cookie for added tanginess that pairs beautifully with pumpkin spice.
4. Chai Latte
   The aromatic spices in chai enhance the flavors of pumpkin, making it a cozy drink choice.
5. Candied Pecans
   The crunchy sweetness of candied pecans provides an excellent texture contrast to soft cookies.
6. Hot Chocolate
   Rich hot chocolate creates a comforting winter treat when paired with pumpkin cookies, perfect for chilly nights.
7. Roasted Marshmallows
   Add roasted marshmallows on top of your cookie for a s’mores-inspired twist that’s sure to please everyone!
8. Pumpkin Spice Latte
   Elevate your snack time by enjoying these cookies alongside this seasonal favorite for a full fall experience!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies is simple, but small errors can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Not chilling the dough: Skipping this step can result in cookies that spread too much during baking. Always chill the dough for at least 30 minutes.
• Overbaking the cookies: If you bake them too long, they will become hard instead of chewy. Pay attention to the edges; they should be set while the centers look slightly underbaked.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold ingredients can affect the mixing process and texture. Make sure your egg yolk and pumpkin puree are at room temperature when mixing.
• Measuring flour incorrectly: Using too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements.
• Ignoring the brown butter stage: Not letting the butter brown properly can lead to a lack of flavor. Watch it closely until it turns nutty and golden.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking.

Freezing Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container.
• They will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350℉ (175℃) and bake for about 5 minutes for warm cookies.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies different from regular pumpkin cookies?

Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies use brown butter which adds a rich, nutty flavor. The right balance of wet and dry ingredients also helps maintain their chewy texture.

Can I use whole wheat flour in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition. However, this may alter the texture slightly.

How can I customize my Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies?

You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for extra flavor and texture.

Are these pumpkin cookies suitable for vegan diets?

To make them vegan, substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or vegan butter, and replace the egg yolk with flaxseed meal or applesauce.

Final Thoughts

These Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with your favorite mix-ins or spices, making each batch unique. Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights at home, give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!