Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
These chewy pumpkin cookies are a delightful treat perfect for fall. With their soft, chewy centers and a sprinkle of spiced sugar on top, they bring the cozy flavors of autumn right to your kitchen. Ideal for gatherings, parties, or simply enjoying at home, these cookies will impress anyone who takes a bite. Each cookie is packed with pumpkin goodness and aromatic spices, making them an irresistible choice for dessert lovers!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistibly Chewy: The perfect texture that melts in your mouth.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and quick instructions mean you’ll have fresh cookies in no time!
- Versatile Flavor: Perfect for any occasion from Thanksgiving to casual snacks.
- Perfectly Spiced: A delightful mix of pumpkin spice that warms your palate.
- Great for Sharing: Makes about 18 cookies, perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking these delicious chewy pumpkin cookies, it’s essential to have the right tools on hand. Having the proper equipment can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl is essential for combining wet and dry ingredients thoroughly.
- Electric mixer: This tool helps achieve a smooth batter quickly, ensuring even mixing.
- Baking sheet: A good-quality baking sheet ensures even cooking and browning of the cookies.
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 your cookies bake evenly from the start.
Step 2: Prepare Baking Sheets
Line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine:
1. Flour
2. Baking soda
3. Baking powder
4. Salt
5. Pumpkin pie spice
Whisk together until well blended.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl:
1. Using an electric mixer, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add egg yolks one at a time while continuing to mix.
3. Stir in vanilla extract and pumpkin puree until combined.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture:
1. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing for tender cookies.
Step 6: Scoop Cookies onto Baking Sheet
Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop dough onto prepared baking sheets:
– Space them about 2 inches apart.
Step 7: Add Sugar Topping
Sprinkle each cookie with the spiced sugar mixture before baking for an added touch of sweetness.
Step 8: Bake
Bake in preheated oven for about 12 minutes or until edges are slightly golden:
– Allow cookies to cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Now enjoy your delightful chewy pumpkin cookies!
How to Serve Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
These chewy pumpkin cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or simply indulging at home, these cookies can elevate your dessert experience.
With a Cup of Coffee
- A warm cup of coffee pairs perfectly with the spiced flavor of chewy pumpkin cookies, enhancing their taste.
As a Dessert Platter
- Arrange chewy pumpkin cookies with other fall-themed treats for a vibrant dessert platter that impresses guests.
With Ice Cream
- Top a warm chewy pumpkin cookie with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
At Holiday Gatherings
- Serve these cookies at Thanksgiving or Halloween parties as a festive and delicious option that everyone will love.
With Milk
- Enjoying chewy pumpkin cookies with a cold glass of milk brings out their sweetness and makes for a classic combo.
How to Perfect Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
To achieve the best chewy pumpkin cookies, consider the following tips:
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg yolks are at room temperature. This helps create a better texture in your cookies.
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Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix just until combined to keep the cookies soft and chewy. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
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Chill the Dough: Consider refrigerating the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This can improve the flavor and texture of your cookies.
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Measure Flour Accurately: Spoon and level your flour to avoid adding too much, which can make your cookies dry instead of chewy.
Best Side Dishes for Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
Chewy pumpkin cookies can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great options to serve alongside them:
- Spiced Hot Cider: The warm spices in hot cider harmonize beautifully with the flavors of pumpkin cookies.
- Nutty Granola: A crunchy nutty granola adds texture and pairs well with the softness of these cookies.
- Maple Pecan Cheesecake: The rich flavors of cheesecake balance nicely with the lightness of pumpkin cookies.
- Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with fruits and nuts for a refreshing side that contrasts the sweetness.
- Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of chewy pumpkin cookie into chocolate fondue for an extra indulgent treat.
- Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad provides a light, refreshing contrast to the dense flavors of chewy pumpkin cookies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can greatly improve your chewy pumpkin cookies. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using cold ingredients: Cold butter and eggs can affect the texture of your cookies. Always use room temperature ingredients for a better mix.
- Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for a softer, chewier texture.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can make your cookies dry. Use the spoon and level method for accurate measurement.
- Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough helps develop flavors and improves texture. Don’t skip this step, even if you’re in a hurry.
- Ignoring baking time: Every oven is different; keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Remove them when they’re set but still soft in the center.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store chewy pumpkin cookies in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge.
Freezing Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
- Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them first.
- Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
- Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat for about 2-3 minutes, flipping occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making chewy pumpkin cookies:
How do I get my chewy pumpkin cookies to stay soft?
To keep your chewy pumpkin cookies soft, avoid overbaking and ensure proper storage in an airtight container.
Can I add chocolate chips to my chewy pumpkin cookies?
Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips enhances the flavors and adds extra sweetness. Feel free to customize!
What spices can I use besides pumpkin pie spice?
You can use cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger as alternatives or in addition to pumpkin pie spice for more flavor depth.
How long will chewy pumpkin cookies last?
When stored properly, these delicious treats will last about 5 days at room temperature or up to 3 months in the freezer.
Can I use homemade pumpkin puree instead of canned?
Yes, homemade pumpkin puree works well too! Just ensure it’s not too watery; drain any excess liquid if necessary.
Final Thoughts
These chewy pumpkin cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with nuts or chocolate chips. Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy evenings at home, these treats offer warmth and joy with every bite. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it might just become your new favorite!
Chewy Pumpkin Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 18 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with these delightful chewy pumpkin cookies. Their soft, chewy centers and a sprinkle of spiced sugar on top create a perfect treat for any autumn occasion. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply enjoying them at home, these cookies are sure to impress. Each bite is packed with rich pumpkin flavor and aromatic spices, making them an irresistible choice for dessert lovers. Easy to make and great for sharing, these cookies will quickly become your go-to fall recipe!
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- 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
- 1/4 cup granulated white sugar
- 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice for sugar topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and pumpkin pie spice.
- In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add egg yolks one at a time, then mix in vanilla and pumpkin puree.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Scoop dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Sprinkle with spiced sugar topping.
- Bake for about 12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Cool on wire racks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (34g)
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
