Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
These Chewy Pumpkin Cookies are a delightful treat for any fall gathering or cozy night in. With their rich pumpkin flavor and soft, chewy texture, they are sure to impress family and friends. Each bite is infused with warm spices that make them perfect for enjoying during the autumn months or throughout the holiday season. Get ready to bake a batch of cookies that will melt in your mouth and brighten any occasion!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: These chewy pumpkin cookies come together quickly, making them perfect for both experienced bakers and beginners alike.
- Delicious Flavor: With a blend of pumpkin puree and warm spices, every bite offers a burst of fall flavors that you won’t be able to resist.
- Versatile Treat: Whether for a holiday party, a cozy family gathering, or an afternoon snack, these cookies fit any occasion perfectly.
- Moist and Chewy: The unique texture ensures that each cookie remains soft and chewy, creating an indulgent experience.
- Customizable: Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts based on your preference for an extra touch of flavor.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your chewy pumpkin cookies, make sure you have the right tools on hand. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Cookie scoop
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all your ingredients easily without spilling.
- Baking sheet: Using a sturdy baking sheet helps distribute heat evenly for perfectly baked cookies.
- Parchment paper: This 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!
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated white sugar
– 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
– 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 chewy pumpkin cookies bake evenly from the start.
Step 2: Prepare Baking Sheet
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps prevent the cookies from sticking while they bake.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
1 3/4 cups (219 g) all purpose flour
1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
Make sure these ingredients are well combined before moving on.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars
In another bowl, cream together:
3/4 cup (168 g) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup (220 g) light brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup (50 g) granulated white sugar
Beat until light and fluffy.
Step 5: Add Eggs and Pumpkin
Add:
2 egg yolks, at room temperature
2 tsp vanilla
1/2 cup (122 g) canned pumpkin puree
Mix until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
Step 7: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheet
Using a cookie scoop, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
Step 8: Bake Your Cookies
Bake in the preheated oven for about 12 minutes. The edges should look set while the centers remain soft.
Step 9: Cool Before Serving
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your delicious chewy pumpkin cookies!
How to Serve Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
These chewy pumpkin cookies are delightful on their own, but they can be enhanced with a few simple serving ideas. Here are some delicious suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.
With Hot Beverages
- Coffee: The rich flavors of coffee complement the spices in these cookies perfectly.
- Hot Chocolate: A sweet pairing that makes for a cozy treat on chilly days.
- Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai enhance the pumpkin spice notes in the cookies.
As Dessert Platter
- Cookie Assortment: Serve these cookies alongside other fall-themed treats for a festive dessert spread.
- Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use two cookies to sandwich your favorite ice cream for a delicious twist.
- Cheesecake Bites: Pairing with mini cheesecake bites adds a creamy texture and balances the cookie’s chewiness.
With Toppings
- Drizzled Caramel: A light drizzle of caramel sauce adds sweetness and a touch of elegance.
- Whipped Cream: Top with whipped cream for an extra fluffy texture that complements the chewy center.
How to Perfect Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
To ensure your chewy pumpkin cookies come out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps the butter and sugar blend more smoothly, creating a better texture.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix just until combined to keep your cookies tender and chewy.
- Chill the Dough: Letting the dough chill for at least 30 minutes can enhance flavor and improve texture.
- Watch Baking Time Closely: Bake until edges are set but centers look slightly underbaked; they will continue cooking on the pan.
- Add Extra Spice: For more flavor, feel free to sprinkle additional pumpkin pie spice on top before baking.
- Store Properly: Keep cookies in an airtight container to maintain their chewiness for longer.
Best Side Dishes for Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
These chewy pumpkin cookies pair wonderfully with several side dishes that enhance their flavor. Here are some great options to consider.
- Spiced Apple Cider: A warm drink infused with cinnamon and nutmeg complements the pumpkin flavors beautifully.
- Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: The creamy texture of this soup creates a comforting pairing with the sweet cookies.
- Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts: These savory sprouts add a contrasting flavor that balances out the sweetness of the cookies.
- Candied Pecans: Sweet, crunchy pecans provide a delightful textural contrast and nutty flavor.
- Autumn Salad: A mixed greens salad topped with cranberries and goat cheese refreshes your palate between bites of cookie.
- Cheese Board: Include soft cheeses like Brie or goat cheese alongside seasonal fruits for a sophisticated touch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking chewy pumpkin cookies can be delightful, but some common mistakes can ruin your batch. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Incorrect Measuring: Using too much or too little flour can change the texture of your cookies. Always spoon and level your flour for accuracy.
- Cold Ingredients: Using cold butter or eggs can prevent proper mixing. Make sure they are at room temperature for even blending.
- Not Chilling the Dough: Skipping the chilling step may lead to flat cookies. Chill your dough for at least 30 minutes to help them hold their shape.
- Overbaking: Chewy pumpkin cookies should be soft in the center. Keep an eye on the baking time and remove them when they are just set.
- Ignoring Spices: Pumpkin spice is crucial for flavor. Don’t skimp on it; use the full amount as specified in the recipe.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Chewy pumpkin cookies will last up to 5 days in the fridge.
Freezing Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
- Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5 minutes until soft.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about chewy pumpkin cookies, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:
How do I make chewy pumpkin cookies?
To achieve that chewy texture, use more brown sugar than white sugar and avoid overbaking them. Follow the recipe closely!
Can I substitute fresh pumpkin for canned pumpkin puree?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree, but ensure it’s properly cooked and blended until smooth.
What spices work well with chewy pumpkin cookies?
Besides pumpkin pie spice, consider adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger for extra warmth and flavor.
How long do chewy pumpkin cookies last?
When stored properly, these cookies stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to five days and freeze well for three months.
Final Thoughts
These chewy pumpkin cookies are perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights at home. Their delightful texture and rich flavors make them irresistible! Feel free to customize them with chocolate chips or nuts to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!
Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in these Chewy Pumpkin Cookies, the perfect autumn treat that brings together rich pumpkin flavor and warm spices. With their soft, chewy texture, each cookie melts in your mouth, making them ideal for fall gatherings or cozy nights at home. Easy to make and fully customizable, you can add chocolate chips or nuts for an extra twist. Whether paired with a hot beverage or served as part of a dessert platter, these cookies are sure to be a hit. Get ready to fill your kitchen with the comforting aroma of pumpkin spice and enjoy the delightful taste of these seasonal treats.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream the softened butter with both sugars until light and fluffy.
- Mix in egg yolks and pumpkin puree until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Scoop dough onto the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for approximately 12 minutes until edges are set but centers remain soft.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
