Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
Get ready for sweater weather with these Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies. Perfect for fall gatherings, cozy evenings at home, or simply when you’re craving something sweet, these cookies are a delightful treat. The warm flavors of pumpkin and spices combined with the rich taste of brown butter create an irresistible dessert. Plus, they are easy to make in just one bowl!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Preparation: This recipe requires only one bowl, making cleanup a breeze.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of brown butter and pumpkin puree brings a unique depth to each cookie.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or a movie night, these cookies fit perfectly into any setting.
- Chewy Texture: Enjoy the delightful softness and chewiness that keeps you coming back for more.
- Customizable Add-Ins: Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor and texture.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into baking your Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment can streamline the process and ensure perfect cookies every time.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: A good set allows for easy mixing of ingredients without spills.
- Spatula: Ideal for folding ingredients together gently to maintain the dough’s texture.
- Baking sheets: Ensure even baking; using two sheets helps manage multiple batches.
Ingredients
Get ready to assemble your ingredients! Here’s what you need to make Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies:
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 while stirring with a spatula. Continue cooking until it turns brown and gives off a nutty aroma (about 2–3 minutes). Pour into a medium mixing bowl and let cool completely.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
Once the brown butter has cooled, whisk in both sugars (granulated and light brown), along with the maple syrup until well combined.
Step 3: Add Egg Yolk and Pumpkin Puree
Add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree to the mixture. Whisk 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 cinnamon until evenly mixed.
Step 5: Form Dough
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a dough forms. Cover with plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.
Step 6: Preheat Oven
While chilling the cookie dough, preheat your oven to 350℉/175℃. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 7: Shape Cookies
Using a large cookie scoop or spoon, scoop out dough balls (about 2 tablespoons each). In a small bowl, mix together white sugar and pumpkin pie spice. Roll each ball in this mixture before placing them on prepared baking sheets about 3–4 inches apart.
Step 8: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 10–14 minutes. The edges should be set while keeping slightly underbaked in the center for that chewy texture.
Enjoy your Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies fresh out of the oven!
How to Serve Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
Soft and chewy pumpkin cookies are perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights at home. Here are some delightful ways to serve them that will elevate your cookie experience.
With a Glass of Milk
- A classic combination, pairing these cookies with cold milk enhances their flavors and makes for a comforting treat.
Warmed with Ice Cream
- Heat the cookies slightly in the microwave and top them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert sundae.
Dusting of Powdered Sugar
- Lightly sprinkle powdered sugar on top of the cookies before serving for an elegant touch and extra sweetness.
Accompanied by Hot Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy these cookies with your favorite hot beverage. The warm drinks complement the spices in the cookies beautifully.
At a Dessert Bar
- Set up a dessert bar during gatherings where guests can choose from various toppings like chocolate chips, nuts, or caramel drizzle to customize their cookies.
How to Perfect Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
To ensure your pumpkin cookies turn out perfectly soft and chewy, follow these key tips.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Starting with room temperature butter and egg yolk helps achieve a smooth batter and better texture.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mixing just until combined keeps the cookies light and tender.
- Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill for 30 minutes helps prevent spreading during baking, resulting in thicker cookies.
- Watch Baking Time Closely: Remove cookies from the oven when the edges are set but the center appears slightly underbaked for that perfect chewy texture.
- Store Properly: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain softness over time.
- Experiment with Spices: Adjust pumpkin pie spice levels or add nutmeg for a personalized flavor twist.
Best Side Dishes for Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
Pairing soft and chewy pumpkin cookies with delightful side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:
-
Spiced Apple Cider
Warm spiced apple cider complements the flavors of pumpkin perfectly, creating a cozy atmosphere. -
Cheese Platter
A mix of soft cheeses like Brie or goat cheese pairs well with the sweetness of pumpkin cookies, adding a savory element. -
Roasted Nuts
Serve an assortment of roasted almonds or pecans alongside your cookies for a crunchy contrast to their softness. -
Fruit Salad
A fresh fruit salad adds brightness and balances out the richness of pumpkin flavors, making it an ideal side dish. -
Caramel Sauce
Drizzle warm caramel sauce over individual cookies or serve it on the side for dipping, enhancing their sweetness. -
Chocolate Ganache
Offer chocolate ganache as a dip that adds decadence to each bite while complementing the spices in the cookie. -
Pumpkin Spice Latte
This seasonal favorite is perfect alongside your pumpkin cookies, tying together all those wonderful fall flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies can be delightful, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Using cold ingredients: Always use room temperature ingredients, especially the egg yolk. This ensures better mixing and texture.
- Overmixing the dough: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
- Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes is crucial. It helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances flavor.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Use a spoon to fluff up your flour before scooping it into a measuring cup. Too much flour can make your cookies dry.
- Baking on a warm sheet: Always use room temperature baking sheets. Placing cookie dough on a warm sheet can lead to spreading.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
- Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350℉ (175℃) and bake for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie for about 10-15 seconds for a quick snack.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat for 1-2 minutes, flipping halfway.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re curious about Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies, here are some common questions answered.
What makes these pumpkin cookies soft and chewy?
The combination of brown butter, sugars, and pumpkin puree gives these cookies their soft texture while still being chewy.
Can I substitute other ingredients in this recipe?
Yes! You can replace pumpkin puree with applesauce or add chocolate chips for an extra touch of sweetness.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
Look for set edges with slightly underbaked middles; they will firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.
Are these cookies suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! These soft and chewy pumpkin cookies freeze well and can maintain their flavor and texture even after thawing.
What spices work well with pumpkin cookies?
Besides pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger can enhance the flavor profile of your cookies.
Final Thoughts
These Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies are perfect for fall gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Their delightful flavor makes them versatile; feel free to customize with nuts or chocolate chips. Enjoy baking these comforting treats!
Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Get ready to embrace the flavors of fall with these Soft and Chewy Pumpkin Cookies! Perfect for autumn gatherings or cozy nights in, these cookies blend the warm notes of pumpkin and spices with rich brown butter for an irresistible treat. With a delightful chewy texture and easy one-bowl preparation, they are not only delicious but also a breeze to make. Customize them with chocolate chips or nuts for an extra flavor kick. Enjoy the essence of fall in every bite!
Ingredients
- ¾ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- ¼ cup white sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¼ cup pumpkin puree
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Brown the Butter: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat until golden brown; let cool.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together cooled butter, sugars, maple syrup, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon.
- Form Dough: Gently combine wet and dry ingredients; chill dough in the fridge for 30 minutes.
- Shape Cookies: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop dough onto lined baking sheets; roll in a sugar-spice mix before baking.
- Bake: Cook for 10-14 minutes until edges are set but centers remain slightly underbaked.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 135
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 65mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
