Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

Get ready for sweater weather with these Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies. These delightful treats are perfect for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to festive holiday celebrations. With their rich pumpkin flavor and chewy texture, they’re sure to become a favorite. Plus, the use of brown butter adds a nutty depth that makes each bite irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Bowl Wonder: You can make these cookies without the hassle of multiple mixing bowls, making cleanup a breeze.
• Perfectly Chewy Texture: The combination of brown butter and pumpkin puree creates a moist and chewy cookie that everyone will love.
• Fall Flavors: Infused with pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon, these cookies capture the essence of autumn in every bite.
• Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have fresh cookies ready in no time.
• Versatile Treat: These cookies are great for dessert, snacks, or even as a sweet gift during the fall season.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making these Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make the baking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop or spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These ensure you can combine ingredients easily without spills.
• Whisk: A whisk helps incorporate air into your batter, making it light and fluffy.
• Baking sheets: Using proper baking sheets ensures even cooking and prevents sticking when lined with parchment paper.

Ingredients

Get ready for sweater weather with these homemade chewy pumpkin cookies. Made with brown butter and pumpkin puree, they’re made in one bowl.

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
– 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 unsalted butter. Once melted, increase the heat to medium. Let the butter foam and cook until it turns golden brown and emits a nutty aroma (about 2–3 minutes). Pour it into a medium mixing bowl and allow it to cool completely.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

Once the brown butter has cooled, whisk in the granulated sugar and light brown sugar along with the maple syrup until combined. Then add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree. Whisk until smooth.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, kosher salt, pumpkin pie spice, and ground cinnamon until well combined.

Step 4: Form the Dough

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

Step 5: Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheets

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

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Scoop out portions of cookie dough using a large cookie scoop or spoon (about 2 tablespoons each). In a small bowl, mix together white sugar and pumpkin pie spice. Roll each cookie dough ball in this mixture before placing them on your prepared baking sheets.

Step 7: Bake

Place the dough balls on lined baking sheets with enough space between them (3–4 inches apart). Bake in your preheated oven for about 10–14 minutes. The edges should be set while the centers may look slightly underbaked—this is key for that soft texture!

How to Serve Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

Soft and chewy pumpkin cookies are perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own. Here are a few delightful ways to serve them that will enhance their flavor and make any occasion special.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic combination that complements the pumpkin flavor beautifully.

As an Ice Cream Sandwich

• Make a delicious ice cream sandwich by placing a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies. This treat is sure to impress!

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Add a drizzle of warm caramel sauce over the top of each cookie for an extra layer of sweetness and decadence.

Paired with Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these cookies alongside your morning coffee or afternoon tea. The spices in the cookies pair perfectly with warm beverages.

Served at Fall Gatherings

• Bring these cookies to fall gatherings, parties, or potlucks. They’re sure to be a hit among friends and family.

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How to Perfect Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

Achieving the perfect soft and chewy pumpkin cookies is all about technique and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to help you master this recipe.

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: Fresh puree provides better flavor compared to canned options. If possible, roast your own pumpkin for the best results.
• Chill the dough: Chilling the cookie dough helps in preventing spreading while baking, resulting in thicker, chewier cookies.
• Don’t overbake: Remove the cookies from the oven when they are slightly underbaked. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.
• Brown the butter correctly: Take care not to burn the butter when browning it; aim for a nutty aroma and golden color for optimal flavor.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your taste or try adding nuts or chocolate chips for variety.
• Store properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week for maximum freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

Soft and chewy pumpkin cookies can be enjoyed with various side dishes. Here are some ideal pairings that complement their flavors wonderfully.

1. Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider enhances the autumn flavors of pumpkin, making it a cozy beverage choice.
2. Creamy Whipped Yogurt: A dollop of whipped yogurt adds creaminess and balances out the sweetness of the cookies.
3. Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese; their creaminess pairs well with sweet pumpkin flavors.
4. Roasted Nuts: A mix of roasted almonds or pecans provides crunch and richness that contrasts nicely with soft cookies.
5. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits offers freshness alongside the rich taste of pumpkin.
6. Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of cookie into warm chocolate fondue for an indulgent dessert experience!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking soft and chewy pumpkin cookies can be simple, but certain mistakes can ruin the fun. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Incorrect butter temperature: Using melted butter that is too hot can cause your cookies to spread too much. Allow it to cool completely before mixing.
• Skipping the chilling step: If you skip chilling the dough, your cookies might turn out flat instead of soft and chewy. Always chill for at least 30 minutes.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing the dough too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for the best texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much flour will create dry cookies. Use a kitchen scale or spoon and level method for accuracy.
• Baking at the wrong temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated correctly before baking. If it’s too hot, cookies can burn on the edges while remaining raw in the middle.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store soft and chewy pumpkin cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep them at room temperature to maintain their softness.

Freezing Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350℉, place cookies on a baking sheet, and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop: Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and heat for about 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about soft and chewy pumpkin cookies:

How do I achieve soft and chewy pumpkin cookies?

To keep your pumpkin cookies soft and chewy, make sure not to overbake them. The centers should look slightly underbaked when you take them out of the oven.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree! Just ensure it’s properly blended and not too watery.

What if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough is sticky, you may need to add a little more flour, but do so gradually as too much can alter the texture.

Can I add chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips or nuts can enhance the flavor of your soft and chewy pumpkin cookies.

Final Thoughts

These soft and chewy pumpkin cookies are perfect for any fall gathering or cozy night in. Their delightful flavor makes them versatile enough for various occasions. Feel free to customize them with nuts or chocolate chips to fit your taste!