Soft and chewy pumpkin cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall, then these soft and chewy pumpkin cookies are just what you need. They’re cozy, comforting, and bursting with warm spices that remind us of crisp autumn days. This recipe has been a staple in my kitchen for years, perfect for sharing with family and friends during gatherings or simply enjoying with a cup of tea at home.

What I love most about these cookies is how easy they are to make. With just one bowl required, you’ll spend less time cleaning up and more time savoring the deliciousness. Plus, they’re wonderfully adaptable to suit any occasion—whether it’s a casual weeknight snack or a festive dessert at a holiday party.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These cookies come together in no time, making them perfect for busy days.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love them! The soft texture and sweet flavors are sure to please everyone at the table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and bake whenever you’re ready for fresh cookies.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree, brown butter, and warm spices creates an irresistible taste that’s hard to resist!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These soft and chewy pumpkin cookies are made with simple, wholesome ingredients you likely have on hand. Gather these goodies, and let’s get baking!

For the Cookies

• 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
• 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 (for rolling)
• ½ tablespoon pumpkin pie spice (for rolling)

Variations

This recipe is flexible, allowing you to customize your cookies based on what you have or your personal preferences. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in some dairy-free chocolate chips for an extra sweet treat.
• Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture.
• Swap the Spice: If you prefer a different flavor profile, try using ginger or allspice instead of pumpkin pie spice.
• Frosted Delights: Top your cooled cookies with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and almond milk for a sweet finish.

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 and let it foam up. Keep stirring until the butter turns golden brown and releases a nutty aroma—this step adds depth to your cookies’ flavor!

Step 2: Mix the Sugars

Once your brown butter has cooled completely (we don’t want scrambled eggs here!), whisk in both sugars along with the maple syrup until well combined. This will create a rich base for your cookie dough.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Next, add in the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth—this mixture is going to keep your cookies moist and flavorful.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon. Mixing these dry ingredients ensures even distribution of leavening agents and spices throughout your dough.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a dough forms. Be careful not to overmix! Once combined, cover your bowl with plastic wrap and chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps develop flavors and improves cookie texture.

Step 6: Preheat Your Oven

While waiting for the dough to chill, preheat your oven to 350℉/175℃. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper so your cookies don’t stick during baking.

Step 7: Shape Your Cookies

Using a large cookie scoop or spoon (about 2 tablespoons), scoop out portions of dough. Roll each ball in a mix of white sugar and pumpkin pie spice before placing them on prepared baking sheets—this adds sweetness right from the start!

Step 8: Bake!

Pop those trays into your preheated oven! Bake for about 10-14 minutes—the edges should be set while the centers look slightly underbaked so they remain soft when cooled.

And there you have it! Soft and chewy pumpkin cookies that are sure to become your new favorite fall treat. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Soft and chewy pumpkin cookies

Baking can be a delightful adventure, and these tips will help you achieve the perfect soft and chewy texture in your pumpkin cookies!

• Use room temperature ingredients: This ensures better mixing and helps the dough come together smoothly, resulting in a more consistent texture.
• Don’t skip chilling the dough: Chilling allows the flavors to meld and prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking, keeping them thick and chewy.
• Check for doneness carefully: Since you want soft centers, keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time. They should look slightly underbaked when you take them out.
• Experiment with add-ins: Consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried cranberries for extra flavor and texture. Just remember to adjust sugar levels if necessary!
• Store properly: To maintain freshness, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They can also be frozen for longer-lasting enjoyment!

How to Serve Soft and chewy pumpkin cookies

These pumpkin cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing! Here are some fun ideas on how to present this sweet treat for any occasion.

Garnishes

• Sprinkle with powdered sugar: A light dusting adds a festive touch and enhances visual appeal.
• Drizzle with maple syrup: A small drizzle on top brings out the maple notes in the cookies while making them even more indulgent.

Side Dishes

• Hot apple cider: This warm beverage complements the spices in the cookies beautifully and creates a cozy atmosphere.
• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream is perfect against the spiced pumpkin flavors, providing a delightful contrast.
• Fruit salad: A fresh fruit salad adds brightness and balances out the sweetness of the cookies, making it a refreshing side option.
• Cheese platter: A selection of mild cheeses pairs well with these cookies, creating a unique sweet-and-savory experience that guests will love.

Enjoy your baking journey, and don’t forget to share these soft and chewy pumpkin cookies with loved ones!

Make Ahead and Storage

These soft and chewy pumpkin cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip them up in advance and store them, making it a delightful treat to have on hand for friends and family.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator where they’ll last about a week.
• Ensure the cookies are completely cooled before storing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing

• Allow the baked cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label with the date for your convenience.

Reheating

• To enjoy warm cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5 minutes or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave each cookie for 10-15 seconds for a quick treat!

FAQs

Have questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some common inquiries about these delicious pumpkin cookies.

How can I make my soft and chewy pumpkin cookies even softer?

To enhance the softness of your soft and chewy pumpkin cookies, try adding an extra tablespoon of pumpkin puree. This will contribute additional moisture, making them even more tender!

Can I use other spices instead of pumpkin pie spice?

Absolutely! If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice on hand, you can create your own mix by combining cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice. This will still give your soft and chewy pumpkin cookies that warm flavor profile!

What is the best way to enjoy soft and chewy pumpkin cookies?

These cookies are delightful enjoyed warm with a glass of milk or paired with a cozy cup of tea or coffee. They’re perfect as an afternoon snack or dessert after dinner!

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to bake these soft and chewy pumpkin cookies! They bring warmth and comfort with every bite—a true reflection of the fall season. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or savoring them solo, I’m sure you’ll love making these delicious treats. Happy baking, and enjoy every moment in the kitchen!