Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
These Chewy Pumpkin Cookies are the ideal treat for fall! With their soft, chewy centers and delightful spice blend, they make a perfect addition to any gathering. Whether you’re enjoying them at home, sharing with friends, or bringing them to a potluck, these cookies will impress everyone. The unique pumpkin flavor combined with warm spices creates a comforting dessert that melts in your mouth.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor – The combination of pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice offers a warm, cozy taste that’s perfect for fall.
- Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, anyone can whip up these delicious cookies.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a holiday party or a casual afternoon snack, these cookies fit right in.
- Chewy Texture – The soft and chewy center makes every bite enjoyable and satisfying.
- Versatile Treat – Enjoy them plain or topped with your favorite frosting for an extra special touch.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your chewy pumpkin cookies, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will help streamline the process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl – Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without mess.
- Electric mixer – Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugars together.
- Baking sheet – Provides a flat surface for even baking of your cookies.
- Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Ingredients
These chewy pumpkin cookies have the perfect amount of pumpkin spice and each bite truly melts in your mouth. With chewy centers and spiced sugar topping, you will not believe how delicious these fall cookies are!
For the Sugar Topping
- 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated white sugar
- 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
For the Cookie Dough
- 3/4 cup (168 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (220 g) light brown sugar, packed
- 2 egg yolks, at room temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla
- 1/2 cup (122 g) canned pumpkin puree (Libby’s works best)
- 1 3/4 cups (219 g) all purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
How to Make Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare Baking Sheet
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking.
Step 3: Mix Sugar Topping
In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and pumpkin pie spice. Set aside for later use.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
Step 5: Add Egg Yolks and Vanilla
Add the egg yolks one at a time to the mixture. Then mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 6: Incorporate Pumpkin Puree
Stir in the canned pumpkin puree until fully integrated into the batter.
Step 7: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined.
Step 8: Scoop Cookies
Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave space between each cookie as they will spread while baking.
Step 9: Sprinkle Sugar Topping
Before baking, sprinkle each cookie with the prepared spiced sugar topping.
Step 10: Bake Cookies
Bake in preheated oven for about 12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Allow cooling on the baking sheet before transferring to wire racks.
Enjoy your homemade chewy pumpkin cookies!
How to Serve Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
These chewy pumpkin cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy fall gathering or a festive holiday party. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your experience.
Pair with Warm Beverages
- Coffee: The rich flavors of coffee complement the spiced cookies beautifully.
- Hot Chocolate: A sweet and creamy hot chocolate pairs perfectly for a cozy treat.
- Chai Latte: The spices in chai enhance the pumpkin flavor for a warming sip.
Presentation Ideas
- Cookie Platter: Arrange cookies on a decorative platter for an inviting look.
- Gift Bags: Package cookies in clear bags tied with ribbon for a thoughtful gift.
- Dessert Table: Include these cookies as part of a larger dessert spread at gatherings.
Garnish Suggestions
- Powdered Sugar Dusting: A light dusting adds an elegant touch to each cookie.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over cookies for extra sweetness and visual appeal.
How to Perfect Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
To achieve the ultimate chewy pumpkin cookies, follow these helpful tips that make all the difference in texture and flavor.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps create a smooth batter that incorporates air well, resulting in fluffier cookies.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: Gently mix until just combined to maintain chewiness. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
- Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill for at least 30 minutes helps prevent spreading, ensuring thick, chewy cookies.
- Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on them; they should be golden around the edges but still soft in the center when done.
- Store Properly: Place cooled cookies in an airtight container to maintain their chewy texture longer.
Best Side Dishes for Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
Chewy pumpkin cookies can be enjoyed with various side dishes that complement their rich flavors. Here are some great options:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a delightful contrast to warm cookies.
- Apple Cider: The crispness of apple cider enhances the fall flavors in your dessert.
- Cheese Platter: Pair with mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese for an interesting duo of flavors.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: Enjoy alongside this seasonal favorite for an extra dose of pumpkin goodness.
- Spiced Nuts: Crunchy spiced nuts add texture and balance out the sweetness of the cookies.
- Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad can lighten up your dessert table and provide a refreshing contrast.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making chewy pumpkin cookies, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your baking game. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:
- Using cold ingredients: Always ensure that your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This helps in achieving the perfect chewy texture.
- Overmixing the dough: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag. This prevents dense cookies.
- Skipping chilling time: If you have time, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This improves flavor and texture.
- Neglecting to taste the spices: Adjust the amount of pumpkin pie spice based on your preference. A little taste test goes a long way.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
- Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be stored for up to three months.
Reheating Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place cookies on a baking sheet for 5-7 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds for a soft, gooey texture.
- Stovetop: Place cookies in a pan over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for 2-3 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions that often come up about chewy pumpkin cookies:
How do I make my chewy pumpkin cookies thicker?
To achieve thicker cookies, chill the dough before baking or add a bit more flour as needed.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes! Fresh pumpkin can be used, but ensure it’s well-pureed and not too watery.
How do I know when my chewy pumpkin cookies are done?
Cookies should be slightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center when done baking.
Can I add chocolate chips to my chewy pumpkin cookies?
Definitely! Adding chocolate chips enhances sweetness and offers delightful flavor contrast.
What is the best way to store leftover chewy pumpkin cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them to keep them fresh longer.
Are chewy pumpkin cookies gluten-free?
You can make gluten-free versions by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
Final Thoughts
These chewy pumpkin cookies are not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize them by adding nuts or chocolate chips for an extra touch. Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights at home, they bring warmth and comfort with every bite. Try these delightful treats today!
Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Chewy Pumpkin Cookies are the perfect fall treat, combining the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices into a soft, melt-in-your-mouth delight.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 egg yolks
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Mix in egg yolks one at a time and then add vanilla.
- Stir in the pumpkin puree until combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, baking powder, and salt; gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients.
- Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
- Bake for about 12 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Let cool before transferring to wire racks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
